Didcot parents, keen to improve the maths and English skills of their children, are running after-school classes using a successful teaching method from Japan.

The Kumon Didcot Study Centre, at Fleet Meadow Community Hall, will hold an open day on February 28.

It caters for more than 30 children, of primary and secondary school age, from 3pm to 5pm on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Pupils How Yee Choi, six, and Jamie King, 15, are pictured with maths learning props and Didcot Kumon instructor Sandy Strong.

Kumon, which is a franchise operation, is described as an education programme designed to help children fulfil their potential.

Ms Strong said the courses were based on the national curriculum, but individually tailored to meet learning needs.

She said courses were particularly beneficial for late developers, pupils of average ability who needed a confidence boost and those looking to improve their concentration skills.

The courses were also beneficial for the gifted.

Ms Strong said: "We assess the level of every student and set work according to that level.

"The Kumon programme was originally developed by a Japanese professor to help his son with maths. It offers teaching and learning materials based on ability and not age."

The open day will run from from 10am to 1pm. Call 01865 858562 for details or e-mail skylark@ukf.net