A SCHOOL has been hailed as a shining example of how to deal with challenging behaviour.

Shotton Hall Comprehensive School, in Peterlee, was one of a string of schools examined by Ofsted inspectors in preparation of a new report devised to help schools tackle disruptive pupils.

The findings highlight the need for more training for teachers in behaviour management.

It follows concerns raised in the chief inspector's annual report last month about disruption by pupils in the classroom.

The report analyses actions taken to manage and improve behaviour in early years centres, mainstream and special schools, pupil referral units and colleges.

And the findings at Shotton Hall have been quoted as a good example to others.

At the Peterlee Comprehensive it was found that pupils' behaviour was very good and they showed considerable loyalty and had pride in their school.

Durham County Council's director of education, Keith Mitchell, welcomed the inclusion of Shotton Hall in the report.

He said: "We know how well the school manages behaviour to facilitate learning and that is a reflection of our focus on developing a strong learning ethos in our schools which in turn provides a climate in which pupils enjoy coming to school."