schoolchildren stepped back in time to sample education Victorian-style as part of a living history lesson.

Pupils in early years age groups dressed in period costume as classes took on an austere 19th Century feel for the day at St Joseph's RC Comprehensive School, in Gilesgate, Durham.

Lessons concentrated on the "three-Rs", with the threat of the dunce's cap for those not performing up to expectation.

The cane was also in evidence, although modern rules prevent its use, to the relief of year two pupils at the Mill Lane school.

But the modern-day Victorians did have to take part in drill in the yard, while they were nourished on milk from old-fashioned bottles, and had to sit in strictly segregated rows, ensuring boys and girls were kept apart as they ate lunch from brown paper bags.

The girls concentrated on "feminine" crafts on the afternoon, including weaving, while the boys took part in observational art lessons.

Writing proved tricky, with special quill-style pens, and woe-betide anyone "blotting their copy books" by spilling ink on their fingers. Teachers used old-style blackboards and other classroom furniture borrowed from the county education libraries department.

St Joseph's deputy headteacher Catherine Craig said the youngsters found it an "eye-opener" due to the strict attitudes adopted by their teachers.

"In those days they were always very critical, but the children rose to the occasion and really took to it."

Mrs Craig said it was the latest in an occasional series of theme history lessons, School Days Long Ago, which allow children to judge for themselves how times and attitudes have changed.