A SCHOOL nurse has won an award for listening to pupils.

Kathy Camsell, who provides nursing services at Tanfield Comprehensive School, near Stanley, was presented with an Investing in Children award.

She said: "I am delighted to receive this award. I have found working alongside young people very positive and rewarding, and hope to be able to carry on working with young people in the same way in the future."

The accolade recognised her work with students at the school over the past year, through drop-in sessions.

She also ran a consultation exercise to make sure the service was suited to pupils' needs.

Headteacher Archie Howat, who presented her with the honour, said: "Kathy has been the inspiration in developing a pupil self-referral drop-in facility at Tanfield.

"This facility is now valued by many young people, who are able to seek guidance and advice on matters that are of concern to them.

"I am delighted with the vigour with which Kathy works and the tremendous support given to the pupils of Tanfield."

Helen Tucker, director of nursing for Derwentside Primary Care Trust, said: "Listening to the needs of young people and the way they wish services to be developed is important.

"The school nursing service provides an important service to local schools in helping to promote healthy lifestyles and ensure primary care services are accessible and friendly for young people."