A PROJECT that brings together the best elements of the best schools to improve teaching is likely to be extended across the region.

Durham County Council is being urged to turn its project, which identifies best practice in all subjects at top-performing schools, into a regional database.

Under the project, information can be shared to improve the performance of teachers and pupils, and staff are encouraged to visit schools to improve their skills.

The project has been praised by leading educationalist Professor Tim Brighouse, a London school commissioner.

Prof Brighouse said: "Durham has already used the data from all schools to compile an 'ideal' school by identifying the best results from departments across the local education authority."

He urged the council to consider establishing a wider database.

Council education director Keith Mitchell said: "The sharing and exchange of good ideas has always been a gateway to improvement and excellence, and no one should ever be too proud to accept there is a better way of doing things and to learn from it.

"The greater the source on which to draw the better, and we welcome the concept of a regional database."