CHILDREN at a Westhoughton primary school are writing a newsletter for schools, parents and teachers in Bolton.

Ten of Sacred Heart Primary School's most talented children produce their publication, Lifted, every term. The newsletter shares ideas about how gifted and talented pupils can be encouraged at every school in the borough. Gifted and talented pupils are generally considered to be in the top ten per cent ability range and have special abilities in a number of subjects.

But pupils do not always achieve the highest marks and may be under-attainers. In an effort to combat this, the newsletter contains tips on how to stimulate the pupils' interest.

Children from years five and six write about trips they have been on, such as to the Jorvic Viking Museum in York, and how schemes like peer mentors have helped their relationships with others.

The newsletter is posted on the school's website and children have given a presentation at the Last Drop Hotel to headteachers from around Bolton.

Teacher Martin Johnson said: "The children have really enjoyed writing the newsletter."

The publication also discusses tests and websites designed for able children. It suggests interesting ways the curriculum can be taught, for example teaching maths through a Who Wants to be a Millionaire-style presentation, and has features on how to improve concentration levels. Jogging is recommended, and frequent sips of water can also boost mental performance.

Sacred Heart also found a successful alternative to biography work in year six literacy. One pupil's father, Gary Parkinson, is an ex-professional footballer. The children carried out web-based research and formulated questions for an interview with him. Gary came into school and chatted to the children, showing them his kits, medals and newspaper clippings.