Teachers in Basildon have been praised for giving up their holiday to keep children educated and entertained.

More than 1,000 children are taking part in the East Basildon Education Action Zone's Children's University over the summer.

Iris Pummell, Essex County Council's cabinet member for schools, said: "It is a marvellous programme.

"It is great that the teachers are giving up their time and keeping the kids off the streets. The work they are doing is really amazing. I can't praise the teachers enough.

"All sorts of things are going on. Some schools are making windsocks while others are making miniature gardens or mosiacs. The kids are getting in a mess but they are making some wonderful things."

Published Monday, August 4, 2003

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