CHILDREN were asked for tips on how to make school a more exciting place.

Mandale Mill Primary School, Thornaby, hosted the area's first Primary School Attendance Conference for nine to ten-year-old pupils.

Youngsters were asked what changes they would introduce if they swapped places with Mandale Mill headteacher Andrew Wright.

It is the first time such a brain-storming session, usually reserved for secondary schools, has been held at primary school level.

School administrator Lyn Robinson said: "The aim is to help children have a voice in how their school may become a more appealing place to attend; to encourage them to think of how important learning is in the contribution they may make to their community."