AS many as 200 teenagers were given a taste of porridge in the hope that it would prove a valuable lesson in life.

The day-long exercise introduced students from Risedale Collge, Catterick Garrison, to life behind bars.

The programme included a glimpse of what it would be like to appear in court, and the monotony of a jail routine.

For most, the reality of prison life was brought home when contact with the rest of the school was cut off - a trudge around a simulated exercise yard replaced the usual break time and prison food was provided in the school canteen instead of the usual menu.

When the students were not learning about life within the cramped walls of a cell, there were workshops on the role of the emergency services, as well as other agencies which help either victims of crime or to combat the region's drugs culture.

"It was certainly an invaluable experience," said college teacher Sam Wood.

"Usually, youngsters make important life choices without realising what the consequences may be.

"At least those who have lived through this will have a better idea of what can happen if they chose to do the wrong thing."

The project was coordinated with the help of the Hull-based Prison-Me-No-Way Trust, military and civilian police, the fire brigade, the North Yorkshire Youth Offending Team, Victim Support, magistrates and voluntary drug and alcohol awareness groups.

"The children have already been discussing their experiences through the day, which has to be a good thing," said Ms Wood.