AN independent Darlington school is opening its doors next month for prospective pupils and parents to view the facilities.

Families will also be able to meet Polam Hall School's new headteacher, Marie Green.

There will be organised tours of the school and its grounds, and Miss Green will give a presentation.

Information will be available about the range of scholarships on offer.

Miss Green said: "This is a chance for families to visit Polam Hall, meet the staff and see what the school has to offer. I'd like to take this opportunity to invite parents to bring their children to take part in the day and get a real feel for this unique and friendly school.

"We take boys and girls aged two-and-a-half to five in the Early Steps Nursery and girls aged four to 18 in the main school, with boarding from age eight.

"There is increasing demand for more boarding facilities and we currently have over 60 boarders from as far afield as Hong Kong."

In a national newspaper league table, Polam Hall was placed 11th out of all independent schools across the country.

The senior school will be open from 10am until noon on Saturday, January 17.