SCHOOLchildren were left holding the baby yesterday in a bid to give them a taste of parental responsibilities.

Pupils at Wellfield School, in Wingate, County Durham, were presented with simulated baby Tio (Think It Over) as part of a novel project.

The scheme entitled Partners and Parenting is being funded by the Single Regeneration Budget and is being organised in selected schools by the NSPCC.

The 8lb model baby is a device being used to help teenagers think carefully about the realities of parenthood.

Project coordinator for the charity, Lorna Kemp, said: "The idea is for youngsters to care for the 8lb simulated baby over 24 hours, tending to him when he cries for attention."

And there will be no ducking out on responsibilities as a computer will register whether the baby's cries have been ignored for too long.

She said: "This project is being well received by staff and pupils, but we need support to enable us to expand it to more schools in County Durham.''

The NSPCC is appealing for more volunteers to help deliver the programme and for assistance in buying the baby simulators.

Lorna said: "Under the scheme, volunteers are recruited, trained and supervised to deliver a module on parenting to Year 10 students as part of their Personal, Health and Social Education programme.''