A long break from school is looking like a thing of the past for some pupils as the drive to improve standards means extra lessons to help them pull their mathematical socks up. Education reporter Lyn Barton looks at one scheme to give pupils a helping hand which is proving to be a success.

'FUN,' 'INTERESTING' AND 'EXCITING' are not words that are usually associated with maths.

But modern maths is a world away from the pain of quadratic equations and stumbling through the 12 times tables in front of the whole class.

Children who have lagged behind in maths at one Bradford school are even giving up a fortnight of their summer holidays to help get back on course.

Hutton Middle School is one of 51 schools across the country trying out a summer numeracy school with government cash backing to the tune of around £10,000.

The project was popular even before it began, explained lead teacher Carol Ambrose.

"We had about 80 children in the hall and we asked any who were interested to put their hands up and they all did!" said Carol.

"There were, of course, some children that we felt needed a bit of extra help, but we thought it would pointless unless they actually wanted to come along themselves. So, we approached the children first then got in touch with the parents.

The aim is to reel in groups of 10 and 11-year-olds who are not quite making the national standard and show them that maths is fun.

Teachers use games, computers and even music to show how important numeracy skills are.

"We try and make it as interesting as possible and show them that numeracy is not just about the classroom but about everyday life," said Carol.

The course lasts 50 hours split over two weeks and it is not classroom bound. Visits to an outdoor centre at Ilkley, Bradford City's ground at Valley Parade and even McDonalds have all featured in the syllabus.

Mum Vanessa Daum says her daughter Ella has really enjoyed taking part in the numeracy school. The world of maths has been opened up to the 10-year-old thanks to the interesting array of activities on offer, she said.

"Maths isn't a chore anymore. It used to be a bit of a worry, but now her confidence has really increased," said Mrs Daum. "She beats me now at adding things up in her head!"

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