THE NSPCC is encouraging schools across Hampshire to take part in its ‘Number Day’ next month.

Number Day, on Friday, February 2, is a maths-inspired fundraising day for children in nursery right through to secondary school, with free downloadable maths activities suitable for all ages and abilities.

These fun curriculum-based activities include a ‘Who Wants to Be a Mathionnaire?’ quiz based on the popular TV show, and a ‘Number Hunt’, where children have to find the teacher with the correct answer.

Pupils are also encouraged to ‘Dress Up For Digits’ and make a donation to wear an item of clothing with a number on it.

All the money raised will go toward funding vital NSPCC services that help prevent child abuse, such as ‘Speak Out Stay Safe’, which sees trained volunteers visiting primary schools across the UK, including Hampshire, to talk to children about abuse and where they can get help if they need it.

Emma Aked, schools service area co-ordinator for Hampshire, said: “It’s so important to have the support of schools across the UK for Number Day. Their involvement will help us to protect more children from abuse and allow them to focus on what’s important - their hopes, their ambitions and their education.

“For 2018 we have new and refreshed activities so everyone can have fun with numbers - even if it isn’t their favourite subject!”

To sign-up to Number Day, visit nspcc.org.uk/numberday.