ABORIGINAL stories, dance and art were on the timetable this week for youngsters at a Teesside school.

The first week after the Easter holidays was designated International Week, at Teesside Prep School, with a full programme of activities, including a visit from Aboriginal storyteller and artist Francis Firebrace.

Mr Firebrace spent the day exploring Aboriginal culture with the pupils. He told stories, taught the children an emu dance, and introduced them to Aboriginal art and cave painting.

Teacher Carol Lara, who organised the week's activities, said: "When we asked the children what they would remember from the day, we found they had taken on board the morals of Francis' stories, and would remember them in everyday life. All the children have been fully involved in a day which has been quite spiritual, as well as great fun."

Other activities during the week include a European market and a French food tasting session. The children will also study the cultures of Africa, North and South America and Asia.

Girls from the senior department who speak other languages will teach the younger children phrases in Urdu, German, Italian, Arabic and Chinese.