A PROJECT which aims to boost confidence and self-esteem among youngsters has received a £2,000 funding boost.

The Thrills and Skills Project will help 60 pupils from years five and six at Woodhouse Community Primary School, in Bishop Auckland, work with qualified instructors and mountain leaders to tackle activities such as shelter making and bridge building.

It has been awarded the funding from the Bishop Auckland and Shildon Area Action Partnership (AAP), one of 14 set up by Durham County Council in 2009.

Tracy Page, headteacher of Woodhouse Community Primary School, said: “Our pupils have experienced exciting and challenging learning experiences based on real-life situations, equipping them with skills for the future.

“We are delighted that, now thanks to this funding, we can extend this opportunity further for more pupils within our school.”

The scheme will begin in the Spring.