A conference to help improve the educational standards of Muslim children is being planned in Bradford.

It aims to identify the barriers which are causing the children - particularly from Pakistani and Bangladeshi backgrounds - from achieving their potential.

Sofia Darr, one of the organisers, said it was time to take responsibility to raise attainment levels of children in the community.

Figures show Pakistani and Bangladeshi children consistently under-perform compared with white children and those of Indian descent.

But Miss Darr said Islamic teaching throughout the Koran prescribed the seeking of knowledge.

Factors hindering education included the low expectation of Muslim pupils, school ethos and the curriculum, which could serve the needs of the children more effectively, she said.

"No-one is taught that algebra was invented by Muslim scholars, and the numerals. Literature, science, astronomy and medicine flourished during Islamic times," she added.

Guest speakers will include Mark Pattison, managing director of Education Bradford, and Yasmin Hussein, education consultant for Diversity and Achievement.

Councillor David Ward, Bradford Council's member for education, said he was pleased to support the conference, organised by the Islamic Society of Britain and other volunteers.

"Anything at all which will improve the educational achievement of Bradford children is to be applauded. Statistically, we know there are Pakistani and Bangladeshi children who are not achieving as well as they could and we are trying to focus our attention on them."

Mark Pattison said: "I am delighted to be invited to the conference. I welcome the opportunity to hear the views of delegates and will discuss with them how we can work together to raise achievement levels of all pupils."

The conference will be held at the Carlisle Business Centre, Carlisle Road, on Saturday, from 9.30am to 3pm.

To book a place call Sophie Darr on 07944 107 902 or 498617 or e-mail educationfuture@yahoo.co.uk