Premier's reading challenge helps MS Society

• Premier's Summer Reading Challenge partners with MS Society
• Children encouraged to read for 10-15 hours over summer holidays

Young students are encouraged to open a book, magazine or newspaper and settle in for an imaginary trip around the State this summer as the annual Premier's Summer Reading Challenge sets off to 'Explore Western Australia'.

Launching the program today, Education Minister Liz Constable said the theme of this year's challenge, which had been expanded to include the Multiple Sclerosis Society's MS Readathon program, would see students join mascot Bosko travelling the State.

Dr Constable said the challenge aimed to get children to read for 10 to 15 hours - depending on their ages - during the annual summer break.

"Children can read anything they like as part of this challenge, including books, magazines, comics and newspapers - just so long as they're reading," the Minister said.

"Children who develop a love of reading at home are more likely to succeed at school, as evidenced by a recent Organisation of Economic Coordination and Development report on the academic results of 15 year olds across 14 countries."

Chief executive officer of the Multiple Sclerosis Society, Marcus Stafford said students would this year, for the first time, have the option to raise funds for the MS Society as part of the challenge.

"This provides a fantastic opportunity for us to raise awareness of MS among school communities," Mr Stafford said.

"I strongly believe that when the Government and not-for profit sectors work together in true partnership, as in this case, it is the community that benefits.

"All funds raised will remain in Western Australia and support people living with multiple sclerosis and other neurological disorders."

Dr Constable said the challenge would run from December 1 to February 6 for all students from kindergarten to year seven.

Fact File

• Children can register at public libraries or  http://www.det.wa.edu.au/readingchallenge
• One lucky child will win an Explore Western Australia $6000 family holiday

Minister's office - 9222 9699