SECONDARY school pupils took to work in a virtual factory to teach them how businesses operate.

The students from Norton School, Stockton, were given the opportunity to improve their leadership, interpersonal skills, decision-making and business management.

Called Duck Day, students not only had to design and build a duck, but also produce and market it.

There were stiff targets, which had to be adhered to, including compulsory rest periods and the banker for the day was the only person who could make decisions on loans.

The buyer was also only able to buy the ducks after they had been through a full quality control process.

However, hurdles were put in place such as a change in the cost of raw materials or compulsory redundancies occurred. There was even a visit by the Inland Revenue.

Stuart Armitage, co-ordinator of the event, said: "This was a wonderful opportunity for our youngsters to get a real feel for the ups and downs of the business world."

The event was held in conjunction with Durham Business School and Learn to Work with the design and technology department of Norton School.