A SCHOOL is to mark its 25th anniversary by helping some of the world’s poorest children.

Staff and students at Emmanuel College, in Gateshead, aim to raise £25,000 to mark its silver anniversary and start what is hoped will become a chain of schools in South Africa.

Fund raising began with a collection at the college's 25th carol service held at Newcastle City Hall and will continue throughout 2015.

Principal Jonathan Winch said: "Twenty five years ago Emmanuel College was an idea in the minds of Sir Peter Vardy and John Burn who were responding to a desire among families in Gateshead and Newcastle for an education that was going to transform their children's life chances.

"In our 25th anniversary year we will begin an exciting project to create another educational opportunity, this time for the poorest of the poor in South Africa."

The college is working with Professor James Tooley, of Newcastle University, and Bishop Martin Morrison to work on the project.

Emmanuel already supports Nokuphila School in South Africa, which is run by Love Trust, an organisation led by Bishop Martin.

Mr Winch said: "Our mission is to create a model for primary education for children who would otherwise be destined for a life of poverty. This model could then be replicated across the country to help thousands of families."