BUDDING hacks from a Thornbury school took part in a national scheme run by the BBC.

More than 250 of Castle School’s Year 9 students took part in this year’s BBC School Report News Day on Thursday, March 19.

The students listened to an informative talk by Natalie Crockett, a journalist for the BBC in Cardiff who talked them through how the day works and her experiences in journalism.

In small groups, the students then researched their own story idea which they pursued throughout the day, interviewing key members of staff including the school’s headteacher Peter Smart and the chairman of governors Chris White-Horne.

Some of the students also learned the important skills of photography and were tasked with taking pictures to accompany the stories.

A number of students then presented their stories to their class before being given BBC certificates as recognition of their hard work.

Laura, one of the students taking part in the event said that the day linked well with what they had been studying.

“The news day is different to what we normally do but is still related to what we’ve been doing in English.

“It’s great to do something else and I think it helps to make you more well-rounded.”

Headteacher, Peter Smart, said: "Our reporters on the day challenged me with a variety of tough questions relating to their experiences at The Castle School.

“It was great to see so many students participating with enthusiasm. I have really enjoyed reading the finished articles on the website. Well done to all involved!"

English teacher, Louise Branton, who organised the day said: “I was really pleased by how the students embraced the spirit of the day. We’ll definitely be taking part again next year.”

Many students found the day both valuable and fun, using their team skills to produce high quality news reports. Students were particularly motivated by being given creative control over their stories.

The day was a huge success. A number of the finished stories are available to read on the school website, http://thecastleschool.org.uk/bbc-school-report-2015.

More information about the day at the school can be found on the Twitter account which was set up for the event @bbccastleschool