STUDENTS were treated to an overseas lesson with an Italian twist.

Redcar and Cleveland College set up the trip for its special needs youngsters to tour Italy's top spots.

Twenty pupils visited attractions such as the Shroud of Turin, and Verona. They also sampled lakes Garda and Maggiore.

The foreign excursion was part-funded by the college and, throughout the year, the students arranged a number of activities, including tombolas, raffles and sponsored walks, to raise additional funds.

Cath Appleby, course leader at the college, said: "We have some very capable special needs students who could lead independent lives.

"The trip to Italy gave them the chance to sample a different culture and learn new skills. The college is working hard to widen participation in learning."