More than 250 young representatives of Pupil Councils from primary schools across York gathered together recently to share their ideas and celebrate their successes.

Most of the city's primary schools were represented at the event, which took place at York Theatre Royal and was organised by pupils from Hemplands Primary School.

The young people involved took part in an information sharing activity based on the concept of 'speed dating' in which they moved around the room spending a few minutes with each of the other delegates in turn. This provided an opportunity for the children to tell one another about the work being carried out by their pupil council and they covered topics like healthy eating, healthy tuckshops, playground activities and equipment, and organising school council elections.

Attendees also took part in a series of workshops that gave them the opportunity to air their views on a range of topics, including the future development of York.

Bernie Flanagan, children's fund programme manager, explained: "These conferences are held each year to celebrate good practice in pupils councils and to offer the young people involved in them further encouragement. The events just get bigger and better due entirely to the energy and enthusiasm of the young people who organise and take part in these days. The days really show how even the youngest of children can a real say in the life of their schools and communities."