A CIRCUS of experiments gave children the chance to teach their peers about the wonders of science following a stint with an expert.

Fishburn Primary School played host to a science fair yesterday where nine and ten-year-old pupils mucked in and got messy in the name of education.

Youngsters demonstrated to their peers how to make mini-volcanoes and lava lamps while experimenting with custard, gases in liquids and chromatography.

Headteacher Danny Eason said: "We've always looked at science as being something all children can achieve in. It's practical, fun and down to earth and you don't need to be a great writer to be a scientist.

"Children explained what they had learned - explaining concepts in their own language which inspired other peer groups."

The Year 5 event marked the end of a ten-week placement with a Durham University science student who is invited to come into the school armed with experiment ideas.

"It creates role models for the children," added Mr Eason. "They run science investigations and are there as a resident expert. They don't teach but they show a lot of enthusiasm for their subject.

The school has a long-term relationship with Durham University and one of its ex-pupils is currently studying there for a masters in astrophysics.