Students laying down the law may seem a bit of a upside-down way to look at school. But students at Bowling Community College have had a direct hand in forming their own code of conduct which everyone must follow. Education reporter Lyn Barton went along to see the youngsters start their term in an unusual way - with no lessons!

SCHOOL WAS out even before it was in at Bowling Community College on Friday.

For students returning from the long summer break were treated to a long lesson in respect.

The whole school day was given over to discussing - and agreeing - the school's new Code of Conduct, inspired by and created by students and teachers working hand in hand.

The departure from the norm had one aim - to make life better for everyone at the school; students, teachers, cleaners, dinner ladies, caretakers, office staff, in other words absolutely anyone with a stake in a good school life.

Leanne Yarwood, a 15-year-old at the college and part of the student council, reckons it is a worthwhile exercise.

"It will help make the school a better place for everyone because it's about not always having to work but having some fun as well."

"The code is basically about getting on with each other," added fellow student council member Charleen Tomlinson, 15.

Recognising the differences between people without falling back on stereotypes is a central theme as is the fact that bullying and anti-social behaviour is unacceptable.

Guided by deputy head Phill King, the students have drawn up a mature document with the basic message of treat people how you would like to be treated yourself.

Teachers and non-teaching staff as well as all 400 pupils at the school took part in the exercise and all ended the day by signing their agreement to the key principles.

Pupils were taken out of their normal classes and for the day worked with different age groups, vital say the organisers to get the right results.

Mr King hailed the day as a great success.

"At first the students were a little uneasy but they soon got used to it and most seemed to be enjoying themselves.

"I think all in all it has been a very useful day and I think the students will agree."

The Bowling Community College Code of Conduct Key Principals are:1. Treat others and the environment with respect2. Give people support and work together3. Be ready to work and work to achieve4. Be open, friendly and honest.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.