CHILDREN worried about making the transition from primary to secondary school will be helped by a film produced by students.

The 40-minute film, called Going Up, will be available to all schools next month, after a successful premiere.

It was made by North Durham theatre arts company Cap-a-Pie for Durham County Council's Access Service, after research highlighted concerns among older primary school pupils.

Film-maker Jez Arrow, of Cap-a-Pie, and scriptwriter Ian Dowson, of Liar Inc, discussed the fear of moving schools with pupils from Peases West Primary School and Wolsingham School and Community College.

With bus travel a prime concern, travel company Go North East was asked to supply a bus for filming.

Other fears were getting lost, being bullied and being separated from friends.

Annie Bromley, principal artist with the group, recruited actors from St John's RC Comprehensive School, in Bishop Auckland, St Bede's RC School, in Lanchester, St Cuthbert's RC Primary School, Crook, and St Charles RC Primary School, Spennymoor.

She said: "The young actors involved worked extremely hard, usually at the end of their normal school day.

"This has been a real partnership project between professional artists and a number of schools throughout the county."

St John's headteacher Gerard Moran said: "It is a very professional production."

Published: 22/06/2004