SCHOOLS should work together to give Darlington’s youngsters a good start in life, says one of the town’s newest head teachers.

Jonathan Briggs took up his post at the Federation of Abbey Schools in September after more than 20 years in teaching.

He believes working with other schools, families and the wider community will enhance opportunities for his pupils, allow for larger scale learning events and provide a network of support for teaching staff.

Mr Briggs said: “In previous roles, I worked closely with other schools - it brings many benefits and is important for pupils' progress. Staff can share good practice, work together on curriculum projects and organise events."

The desire to bolster such links is part of a plan to deliver a creative and productive learning environment, with Mr Briggs introducing several changes since becoming head in the hope of inspiring his young charges.

A mission to reward positive behaviour and build team spirit has seen pupils divided into four Harry Potter themed houses and set to work under a new ‘traffic light’ behavioural system that rewards children who stay on the green light and disciplines those on red.

Mr Briggs says he has faced some criticism over the changes but insists they were implemented to improve learning conditions and reward good behaviour.

He said: “I want to work with parents and get them into the school more so that they can see what we are doing here. It’s important to have good relationships with them and that they come to us with any problems or ideas.”

Pupils are now being set more creative homework, with one project seeing children bake cakes in a bid to improve their writing skills.

Mr Briggs said: “I’ve put on a few pounds, but they’ve had to write their recipes, which helps with the hidden agenda of improving writing. The children are responding brilliantly, they love getting rewarded for positive behaviour. All we want is for them to be happy and confident learners.”

Any local businesses who could help the school reward good behaviour should email admin@abbeyfed.darlington.sch.uk.