INSTEAD of hosting a traditional open day of tours and talks, Emmanuel College is encouraging students from other schools to join their lessons for the day.

They will get to sample the subjects they are interested in taking at A level and contribute as regular students.

Mark Hall vice principal of the Gateshead school, said: "Whilst many of our own Year 11s stay on in the sixth form, we do have some places available for students from other schools.

"We feel they will get the best insight into the subjects they are interested in and understand the nature of a typical A level lesson if they join our Year 12s and experiences lessons 'in action'.

"Those who let us know in advance which subjects they are interested in will be matched with relevant classes. They'll also get the chance to talk to students in their first year of A levels to find out exactly what life at Emmanuel College is like."

The open day is on June 29 from 8.30am to 4.00pm and students can make an appointment to visit at any time during the day.

Mr Hall added: "The opportunity will be of particular interest to those students who didn't get into Emmanuel earlier in their education because we are so heavily oversubscribed, but any young people who are hard-working and ambitious are welcome to come along."

Visitors will also get the chance to hear more about the college's strong Duke of Edinburgh Award programme, student leadership initiatives and opportunities for overseas volunteering.

The college expects demand to be high and students who are interested need to book their place in advance by calling Mrs Whiteley on 0191 460 2099.