PROJECTS aimed at tackling disaffection and raising pupils' achievements will be under the spotlight this week.

As part of the first national Excellence in Cities (EIC) Week, the success and diversity of Sunderland's EIC projects will be highlighted.

The scheme was launched by the Government in 1999 to raise standards in urban areas and help pupils in city schools reach their full potential.

It involves learning mentors working with individual pupils, City Learning Centres, extra opportunities for gifted and talented pupils, and activities to raise awareness of further and higher education.

In Sunderland, EIC projects have involved children attending Sats revision schools and master classes, a regional art project - culminating in an exhibition at Newcastle's Discovery Museum - and trips to Doncaster's Earth Centre and Derwent Hill, in the Lake District.

Events to mark the national week include a Bright Lights and Loud Music project looking at the science of nightclubbing, a talent roadshow at Sandhill View School; an exhibition of excellence at Southmoor School; a workshop by the Wisemoves dance company at Monkwearmouth School; a Get Connected careers event at Washington Leisure Centre and the Stadium of Light; and a digital media event at Sunderland University.

Sunderland City Council's director of education, Barbara Comiskey, said: "Excellence in Cities has had a very positive effect on pupils in our schools and colleges with its wide-ranging and varied programme."

Councillor Pat Smith, cabinet member for education, said: "Excellence in Cities Week offers us the chance to spread the word about what the programme has to offer and it also gives the pupils involved the chance to show off some of the excellent work they have produced."