PUPILS and parents at a primary school are working together to tackle bullying.

Throughout the week, children at Whinfield Primary School, in Darlington, are concentrating on the issue with the aim of driving bullying out of their lives.

The school sent letters, leaflets and information sheets to parents to request their help in achieving a 100 per cent homework return during the week.

The homework centres on the theme of bullying and is aimed at encouraging parents and children to talk openly about the subject.

Lessons have also been tailored around bullying and assemblies each day have addressed the issue. The theme has been incorporated into all aspects of the curriculum, including artwork, literacy and even dance classes.

Tomorrow, pupils will share their work in a school assembly and infant and junior pupils will get together to look at what has been achieved.

Headteacher Sheila Williams said: "The week so far has proved to be a huge success, with children of all ages finding out more about the issues of bullying and taking the opportunity to experience a personal journey of their own.

"By involving parents, we hope to have opened up a dialogue between pupils and their parents to allow children to explore their perception of bullying and look at ways to deal with it."

Chris McEwan, Darlington Borough Council's cabinet member for children's services said: "It is an excellent idea to involve not just the whole school but parents as well.

"Bullying is an issue not just at school but in the day to day life of children outside of the school gate.

"By focusing attention through activities such as these, we can help to equip our children with the information and confidence to deal with it in their lives."