WHILE most footballers head off for the beaches and golf courses as soon as their season is over, for Jack Baldwin it's been a bit different.

The Hartlepool United centre-half has been spending his free time back at school.

Baldwin attended Eastbury Comprehensive in Barking - the same school John Terry attended.

And while the former England skipper heads to Euro 2012, Baldwin has been revisiting his old learning ground.

He was there this week for sports day, helping out in exchange for using their gym.

His former school has a dedicated notice board to keep up to date with Baldwin's progress, complete with a signed Pools shirt.

It may be the close season, but Baldwin is keen to return to Victoria Park in July in good shape.

Just 12 months back, he had ended the season with Faversham Town in the Ryman League.

He has described the last year as a whirlwhind, but the level-headed 18-year old won't be getting carried away.

"The whole year has been fantastic for me, I've only started really playing towards the back end of the season so I'm enjoying it so much more now,'' he said.

"It's flew by so quick, but I've enjoyed every minute. It's the end of the season, but I could happily play on during the summer and I will give myself every chance to make it next season and progress further.

"It will be nice to have a break, but I've been back to school to help out a bit in my spare time - I've not much else to do - and I can catch up with some old friends there.''

Baldwin, who signed a new, improved contract at Victoria Park last month after making 14 starts last season, moved to Hartlepool immediately after signing his first professional deal following his successful trial.

He shares a flat with James Poole and, while the forward has been in training after running the Manchester 10k last week, Baldwin is back home.

"I've not really been back since I moved so there's a lot of people I need to catch up with,'' he added. "They have seen me grow up, people like my dad's mates, and it's nice to see them and tell them how I've been doing at Hartlepool and what they can expect.

"This summer, I spoke early to the club's fitness coach to see what the plans were for the break. I've a programme to stick to and I will do that and hopefully a bit more to help me too outside the programme.

"I've a lot to live up to and I hope to get stronger while I'm not playing to get a bit of size and strength, I'm still growing.

"I was playing men's football aged 16 so I'm used to the physical side of things and my dad has always said I would need size and strength, but I'm not scared to go in for any challenge.''