YOUNGSTERS got a taste of life in secondary school when Rivington and Blackrod High opened its doors to its new year sevens.

The Horwich school held a two-week summer school to celebrate the Commonwealth Games and used it as a focal point to develop team work, leadership and independent learning skills, while improving core literacy and numeracy skills.

And the sessions helped students settle into secondary school life before they join year seven in September while young people got to know the school, teachers and made new friends.

Activities included making smoothies fit for an athlete, learning about the history of the Commonwealth Games, trying climbing and team sports, creating live news coverage and a musical anthem for their team as well as designing medals.

As a reward for their hard work, the pupils enjoyed a trip to Chester Zoo and Blackpool Pleasure Beach before being presented with medals and certificates at the rewards ceremony which was held on the final day.

Tony Purcell, headteacher, said: “Summer schools are so worthwhile in helping the transition between primary and secondary school and we are pleased that this has been such a great success, particularly in striking the right balance between literacy and numeracy work with more creative sessions.

“All in all, it has been an amazing and worthwhile summer school where young people have had fun. Thank you to all staff who have made this happen and the young people for taking such an active part.”