HUNDREDS of teachers are preparing to visit the Education Show 2004. The event - billed as the biggest educational event of the year - takes place at the Birmingham NEC between March 11 and 13.

Organisers are aiming to include "everything for schools" at the event from playground equipment and art supplies to the latest educational software and field trip ideas.

There will be more than 600 exhibitors and nearly 20,000 visitors, including many from Greater Manchester.

The show not only gives teachers the opportunity to see and try the latest products and services for the classroom but also to debate hot topics such as diet and obesity in children, truancy and school funding.