FIVE schools will compete in the final of a maths competition.

The Tees Valley Maths Challenge includes practical and theoretical challenges set to test whizz-kids.

It includes a quiz, an engineering problem-solving session, a mini bridge challenge and a task on recycling.

"The challenge is an ideal way of getting pupils to look at how the maths they are learning at school can be of benefit in their future careers," said Nicola Sherratt, project coordinator at learn2work, which organised the competition.

"They can see how theory is put into practice and what a huge role maths plays in our everyday lives, often without us knowing it."

The finalists are: Carmel RC Technology College, Darlington; Sacred Heart RC Comprehensive School, Redcar; Acklam Grange School, Middlesbrough; Conyers School, Stockton; High Tunstall, Hartlepool.

The final takes place at the Oakwood Centre in Eaglescliffe on Tuesday.