A NO-NONSENSE headteacher has found a new way to get his pupils to concentrate on their homework.

Duncan Harper, headteacher at New Woodlands School, Shroffold Road, Downham, grew tired of children spending too much time in front of their TV and computer screens.

With parents' permission he decided to take matters into his own hands by turning up on their doorsteps and confiscating their worldly goods.

The proactive policy seems to have paid dividends as the school has just been rated outstanding by education inspectors.

Mr Harper says the key to his success is speaking regularly with parents, to see what is best for their children.

He says his methods have met with approval from most parents, even though the youngsters are reluctant to part with their video games consoles and portables.

Mr Harper, who has been headteacher for 12 years, said: "We encourage parents to introduce good routines at home.

"Sometimes the children can be quite insistent and are unhappy to see their equipment go.

"We are happy to keep the equipment until the adults get to the stage where they are in charge of the children, not the other way round."

New Woodlands is one of two Pupil Referral Units in the borough, for children who have been excluded or are at risk from being excluded from mainstream schools.

The school has 65 pupils aged between five and 11 but a £4.5m expansion will see it take in 48 further pupils, aged 11 to 14, by September next year.

Last month inspection body Ofsted gave the school 100-per-cent approval and rated it outstanding in every area.

Mr Harper said: "We were not surprised because we have all worked hard and have a tremendous team of staff.

"The children we take in are perceived as being a nuisance but they just need guidance.

"It is amazing the impact a good environment has on their behaviour. Their self-esteem goes through the roof."