CHILDREN and staff at a village primary school have been praised by the RSPCA for taking part in a national scheme.

Escomb Primary School, in Escomb, near Bishop Auckland, will take part in the charity's Education Week next week, as part of its continuing effort to promote animal welfare at the school.

Education officer, Becky Ward, will visit the school to speak to the 220 pupils about the importance of caring for wildlife and pets.

She will lead activities including designing homes for caged pets and creating a radio advertisement encouraging an animal-friendly summer.

Chris Holmes, the RSPCA's regional education advisor, said: "It reflects the commitment of the school's teachers and young people to the prevention of cruelty to animals through innovative learning programmes, and is something they can take out into the wider community."

Headteacher Keith Taylor said he had always tried to promote a caring attitude towards animals during his 19 years at the school.

He said: "We jumped at the chance to take part in this scheme and are thrilled to work with the RSPCA.

"I really feel that by teaching children to look after their pets and wildlife it encourages them to care for one another and respect people and the environment as a whole.

"We have two conservation areas to encourage wildlife to the school grounds, including a pond with frogs and boxes for birds and bats.

"Children love to see animals and learning about them, so they will enjoy the event and continue the school's efforts in that direction."