A SCHEME to tackle truancy in schools in Stockton and Thornaby is going from strength to strength.

The Thornaby and Stockton Deanery Excellence in Cities action zones attendance project is managed by Stockton's Educational Social Work Service.

Recent figures show that since the introduction of Schools Tackling Absence and Rewarding Success (Stars) award scheme, every one of the 16 schools involved has improved its attendance numbers and reduced unauthorised absences.

Together, the zones attendance has increased from 93.4 per cent to 94.7 per cent.

Polly Hampton, Stockton's manager of education social work services, said: "We are absolutely delighted at what our figures have revealed. It is clear we have made a real impact on school attendance and due to this success, three additional schools in Stockton have joined the project.

"We are very grateful for the commitment of local businesses in helping us raise attendance at our schools."