RAFT building, climbing and abseiling were among the activities on offer to pupils about to make the transition from primary schools around the region to their first term at Polesworth School.

The scheme aimed to help the pupils bond by encouraging them to meet and work together on a range of exciting and challenging tasks.

The 11-year-olds from Austrey, Birchwood, Dordon, Nethersole, Newton Regis, Warton Nethersole, Woodside and other feeder primary schools attended the activity sessions arranged by Warwickshire County Council's extended services team.

Pupils were nominated by their schools on the basis of who would benefit the most from the opportunity.

The youngsters attended one of eight days held at the Kingsbury Water Park Outdoor Education Centre over the course of the holidays and, with the assistance of Polesworth School, placed the children in their future tutor groups.

Funding was provided by the co-ordinator for the Anker Valley cluster at the council.

Councillor Heather Timms, who holds the portfolio for Children, Young People and Families at the county authority, said: "This is an excellent idea.

"Getting off to a good start at secondary school can make a major difference to the levels of behaviour, attendance and achievement further down the line.

"Starting secondary school can be one of the most traumatic periods for children. All of the children who attended these activity days spoke of feeling happier about starting school, having made friends in advance of that first day.

"They will not be facing the experience of starting their new school alone and this will help them to fit more quickly into their new surroundings."