A SUNDERLAND school is taking part in a project to improve pupil literacy.

Quarry View Junior School is the first in the city to adopt the Children's University scheme - first tried in Birmingham.

Key Stage Two pupils whose reading and writing are below standard are given learning mentors and a project designed by teachers to capture their interest.

Quarry View Junior School headteacher Graham Fraser said: "The Children's University is an excellent project.

"Not only does it give children extra support, but it does this in a fun, interesting and informative way.

"Using parents as learning mentors also means children benefit from their parents working alongside them. This reassures the child while getting the parents actively involved in learning.

"We hope other schools across the city will adopt the project. It has been a huge success for us."

The school has chosen Victorian times as its theme and children will visit Preston Park, Stockton, to collect information for a leaflet they will produce on the visitor attraction.