YOUNGSTERS have been learning relaxation techniques to deal with exam stress.

Year 11 pupils at Greencroft Community School, in Annfield Plain, attended workshops on Friday. The aim was to help them cope with the pressures of revision timetables for GCSEs.

Assistant headteacher Louie Campbell said: "Exam time can be very stressful for pupils, so the techniques they have learned should help them cope."

Professionals from several agencies and the school nurse and counsellor held various workshops at the school.

The aim was to encourage young people to have a healthy respect for alcohol, know about the dangers of sexually transmitted diseases and how to cope with stress.

Mrs Campbell added: "We wanted year 11 to know how to look after themselves and where to go for help and advice in the future."