PUPILS about to start at a secondary school have been brightening up the corridors of their new learning environment with murals.

A group of new starters at Greenfield School Community and Arts College, in Newton Aycliffe, painted the corridor as part of a four-day summer school project.

The activity was sponsored with £150 from Newton Aycliffe company 3M.

Working in three teams, the 14 pupils researched their designs online in the school library.

They were supported in their work by young mentors and college staff.

Each of the murals is based on the theme of the arts, to reflect the school's art college status.

Resource centre manager at the college, Judy Waite, said: "It is a big jump from primary to secondary level, and the aim was to introduce them to their new environment in a fun way, while learning at the same time. It was a great success in team building and their enthusiasm showed they are all looking forward to starting with us in September.''

The summer school was so successful that the college has decided to repeat it next year.