Priti Patel, Member of Parliament for Witham, visited St Mary’s CofE Primary Academy in Kelvedon as part of her 2026 Get Witham Reading initiative, celebrating literacy, learning and the importance of reading across local schools.
Launched by Priti Patel in 2012, Get Witham Reading encourages pupils to enjoy books, strengthen their literacy skills and develop a lifelong love of reading. The programme also recognises the vital role played by schools, teachers, parents and governors in supporting children’s learning and helping them to build confidence through reading.
During the visit, Priti was joined by Witham-based author Linda Farrow, author of the children’s book series Qwerty Kidz, which follows the adventures of Poppy and the unique computer characters known as the “Qwerty Kidz”. Linda also spent time with the children, talking to them about her experiences as an author, where her ideas come from, and her next steps in the children’s book series.
Priti met pupils and staff at their newly constructed outdoor reading area, where she read with pupils and heard more about the school’s work to promote reading for pleasure. She also presented certificates and bookmarks to pupils taking part in the initiative, recognising their enthusiasm, effort and achievements.
Priti Patel said:
“Get Witham Reading is about celebrating the joy of books and encouraging children to develop the confidence and skills that reading can provide.
“It was a pleasure to visit St Mary’s CofE Primary Academy and see pupils so engaged with stories, learning and reading for pleasure. Reading plays such an important role in a child’s development, supporting literacy, imagination and curiosity.
“I was pleased to recognise the efforts of pupils by presenting certificates and bookmarks, and I want to thank the teachers, staff, parents and governors at St Mary’s for the work they do to support children’s reading and for taking part in this year’s Get Witham Reading initiative.”
