PRIMARY school pupils have been experiencing learning opportunities on their doorstep with a trip to college.

Year 5 children from Mowden Junior School were invited for a taste of student life at Darlington College in an initiative designed to increase aspirations.

Around 90 pupils were given a guided tour of the college’s facilities, including construction, media, hairdressing and beauty, sport and uniformed services, hospitality and catering.

The youngsters will return in March for a taster day to gain a real insight into college life.

Mowden's head teacher Peter King said: “This has been an invaluable exercise in showing our pupils just what is available for them in their own town. It has been a fabulous experience for them and they can’t wait to come back for a taster day.”

The College's marketing manager Claire Turner said: “Learning is a seamless journey for young people and it's never too soon to introduce pupils to the idea of further education.

“It was also a useful session in breaking down the career stereotypes and I was delighted that many of the girls were interested in joining taster sessions in construction, bricklaying, plumbing, carpentry and engineering.”