SCHOOL children are being given a tasty reward for their hard work, thanks to an awards scheme introduced by a York pizza restaurant.

Domino's, in Bishopthorpe Road, has donated hundreds of pizza vouchers to schools so head teachers can reward pupils who make extra effort or strive for outstanding academic achievements. More than 15 schools in the York area have benefited from the invitation to join the scheme and pizzas have been awarded for work ranging from poster design to letter writing. One of the schools involved, Manor School, in Low Poppleton Lane, York, has integrated the award scheme into its existing merit system. Head teacher Brian Crosby said the innovative scheme has proved to be very popular.

He said: "The reward pizzas have been warmly received by staff as well as pupils, and since their introduction we have seen some outstanding pieces of work being produced. "

York Domino's franchise manager, Ian Foxley, said: "Since I'm married to a teacher, I understand only too well the pressures that they work under and, in particular, the benefit of being able to motivate pupils. The scheme has been a great success, as the children see the gift of a delicious Domino's pizza as a prize worthy enough of a little extra effort in school life."

Updated: 09:57 Wednesday, December 11, 2002