TWO nationally-respected literacy experts are to hold a conference in York discussing problems in the National Literacy Strategy.

Sue Palmer and Pie Corbett, independent consultants to the National Literacy Strategy, and who have worked with thousands of primary teachers, will visit York on October 8 as part of a series of eight conferences around the country.

The conference - Literacy: What Have We Learned And Where Do We Go Next? - will argue that the Government's drive to raise literacy standards was derailed by over-emphasis on testing and targets, coupled with fear of school inspections.

A book to accompany the conference, called Literacy: what works? will also be on sale, published by Nelson Thornes.

To book a place at the conference, which includes a free copy of the book, phone 01872 241776 or email ulrike@suepalmer.co.uk.

Updated: 09:20 Wednesday, September 24, 2003