A TEESSIDE summer school has proved as big a hit with government inspectors as it was with the youngsters who attended.

The two-week scheme at Abingdon Primary School, in Abingdon Road, Middlesbrough, has been judged so good that funding has already been approved for next year.

About 125 children, aged between three and 11, have been attending the scheme.

They have been able to take part in a wide range of activities including art and sculpture, digital art and cricket.

Headteacher Bob Eastwood said: "It has been great and the children have been having a really great time.

"We were given £6,000 by the Government's New Opportunities fund, and an inspector visited us last week and has already approved funding for the next year.

"There has been less pressure for the children and a wide range of things for them to do.

"They've been playing cricket on Acklam park and we've had coaches from both Middlesbrough and Saltburn cricket clubs helping them.

"We have really tried hard to get teachers and staff who are enthusiastic about their subjects and I think it has worked."

The scheme ended this week with a presentation ceremony for the youngsters who took part.