ENTERPRISING students had no intention of ducking out when asked to take part in a school challenge.

The duck enterprise event at Darlington Education Village gave 220 year nine pupils the chance became entrepreneurs for the day.

Students from Haughton and Beaumont Hill Schools were split into teams and had to form a company, complete with a name and logo.

They were then set a series of tasks, based on ducks as a product, which they had to design, manufacture and sell.

Business ambassadors from the Army, police and the Civil Service judged their efforts.

Headteacher Katherine Humpleby said the aim is to create a workforce fit for the 21st Century which is able to actively compete in a global economy.

She said: "I want people to come in and view a successful business environment at the village."

The school is recognised as a beacon for enterprise.

A number of North-East businesses, including SES Engineering and Cummins, in Darlington, are also working closely with the Village, offering apprenticeships to students.

Students are being offered the chance to gain two GCSEs early, in year nine.

The courses will be delivered in conjunction with Middlesbrough Football Club and include a work placement with local employers.