PUPILS have been given a confidence boost by a poet, broadcaster, commentator and programme-maker.

Children from Wheatlands Primary School, in Redcar, have been learning to stand up and read aloud to an audience with the help of Ian McMillan, who hosts and guest stars on radio show for both BBC3 and BBC4.

Mr McMillan, who is also the poet-in-residence at Barnsley Football Club, has already worked with the pupils to produce poetry and illustrations on different themes, which will be showcased inside a publication highlighting the project's achievements.

Yesterday, the young people demonstrated their reading and performance skills to parents, teachers and pupils.

The poetry workshops were initiated by Creative Partnerships Tees Valley, which is a part of a Government-funded education programme working to develop partnerships between schools, cultural organisations, businesses and individuals.

Chris Moorfoot, co-ordinator, said: "Wheatlands Primary School has always valued the contribution other professionals can make to the education of our children.

"The work that our writer in residence has undertaken with the children has excited their minds, extended their vocabulary and encouraged creative thinking. It has given those children who usually are reticent to participate and the confidence to shine."

For more information about Creative Partnerships Tees Valley, call (01642) 515384, or visit www.creative-partnerships.com