A SCHOOL in Darlington is proving that it is never too early to start introducing children to politics.

Mowden Infant and Junior School held student elections recently, where pupils voted for their classmates to elect school ambassadors for each year group.

From the candidates who were chosen, the children voted in a secret ballot for who they thought would be the best person for the job.

This followed an election hustings which each candidate produced, outlining why they wanted to become an ambassador.

Deputy headteacher Alistair Johnson said: "As part of teaching the children core British values, we wanted it to be as close to the actual voting process as possible.

"In line with Unicef, we want to give the children a bigger role, let them have a say, and teach them about choice and responsibility."

Students voted in private, putting their ballots in sealed boxes, with the results being announced on Tuesday.

Candidate Alex Grant, ten, said: "I wasn't nervous at all, but I was shocked to hear my name called out.

"I am a good communicator and I already have a few ideas on what I would like to change in school."

Ten-year-old Jessie Linfoot, added: "I was excited to apply, but did not think I would get chosen as a candidate.

"I believe an ambassador should be smartly dressed and be able to talk to different people. If I become ambassador, I want other students to feel confident and happy at school."

Once elected, one of their first responsibilities is to visit the Disclosure and Barring Service, in nearby Morton Park, on October 5 as part of its community outreach programme.