SOLAR power has been added to the curriculum at an east Cleveland school.

Coast and Country Housing has been educating young people about the benefits of sustainable energy, while giving them a taste of the world of work.

The group has organised work placements for GCSE students from Bydales School, in Marske, to help them build on their knowledge of renewable energy sources and how they effect the environment.

The school is establishing a Technology Learning Resource Centre to enable the students to carry out in-depth research in these fields.

Plans to pioneer a number of sustainable energy projects, including the use of an on-site wind turbine, are being developed.

The students have been working with firm's staff as they install solar panels to properties in the Redcar and Cleveland area.

Tony Hobbs, headteacher at Bydales School, said: "The school is delighted to work with people and organisations that promote sustainable living. Our students are being given the chance to widen their learning and their feedback has given us ideas for future projects."

Mark Freeman, energy advisor for Coast and Country, said: "We are working with residents, schools, businesses and other organisations in the borough to promote energy efficiency measures that could help improve the quality of life for local people."