KEEN pupils enjoyed a party with comedian Richard Blackwood today to celebrate attending school more than their peers.

Enfield Council put on the party to reward the improved school attendance of more than 100 pupils from 14 schools.

The celebration took place between 1pm and 4.30pm at Forty Hall, in Forty Hill, Enfield.

Mr Blackwood started off the celebrations, which included presentations, music and school performances.

Councillor Glynis Vince, cabinet member for education, children's services and youth, said: "School attendance in Enfield has been improving year on year and is almost at the 95 per cent rate."

"We want all our children to get the very best from school and the best way to do that is to attend - so congratulations to all our 100 per cent-ers who will be at the party and let's celebrate the good work that goes on in all our schools."

All schools in Enfield were invited to take part in an attendance campaign earlier this. Education welfare manager Ellin Joseph said: "Pupils were encouraged to write poems and raps and send in posters promoting school attendance.

"Their work is very positive and we have received some excellent poetry and raps. Most children and young people enjoy school and this is apparent in their work. We are rewarding the best attenders, the most improved attenders, and the best overall schools and classes."

Face Front Inclusive Theatre, a local arts group, was commissioned by Enfield Council to carry out research into why some pupils did not attend school. Using their research, the group created scenarios about school attendance, working closely with children of all ages.

Director Annie Smol said "This has been a wonderful way to work with young people. Their views matter and we have ensured that what they say is included on a DVD and in the campaign school packs."

The party marks the beginning of an ongoing campaign to support the importance of school attendance.