SCHOOLCHILDREN in Darlington have risen to the challenge tackling everything from war games to Spanish football in a unique initiative to equip them with skills for life.

More than 400 students from Years 7, 8 and 9 at Haughton Academy are taking part in a host of activities normally not seen on the curriculum.

For one hour every Wednesday afternoon they take part in challenges ranging from building sets for war games, Aboriginal art and making cosmetics from natural products, to playing five-a-side football only speaking Spanish, working with the elderly and learning to play the ukulele.

In sport, students can choose hockey, rugby, boxing and fitness, Pilates and golf.

Art and craft options sees them create Banksy-style and graffiti wall art using themes that have affected students’ lives.

Staff are continually developing and adapting the activities depending on student take-up and responses.

Introduced by principal Rachel Ireland and managed by head of art Vickie Gorton, the scheme has already had a huge impact on student learning.

Miss Ireland said: “The idea was a collective one from all staff who looked at what skills, beyond the curriculum, they would like students to develop.

“It is a way of developing the 6Rs – resilience, reasoning, reflection, responsibility, respect, resourcefulness – and I’m delighted with the response from staff and students.”

Mrs Gorton added: “Staff and students have really embraced Challenge and absolutely love it.

“There has been amazing interaction between different age groups and abilities and also staff who are so passionate about the activity they have brought to the scheme.”

She had seen pupils grow in confidence and self-esteem, witnessed great examples of teamwork, improved concentration, mentoring, interdependence and independent working.