AN initiative to improve confidence, and a sense of self-esteem for school age girls has been piloted by Abbeyfield School in Chippenham.

Working with Wiltshire Council staff the Go Girls programme helps to improve mental health and assertiveness with group activities to help the girls manage their emotions.

The students commented on the sessions held at school with one saying: "I enjoyed listening to others knowing that I’m not the only one," while in the session on assertiveness another expressed the opinion that, "today was fun and helped me realise what I am like."

Other sessions included drugs and alcohol, relationships and keeping safe.

Teacher James Stewart said: “The programme is for one lesson a week over eight weeks.

"The last session will focus on the girls being able to learn the skill of jewellery making and for them to have fun making bracelets.

"Most girls identify that they have greater self-esteem and confidence and have a broader knowledge of the various topics that we cover.”

He said Go Girls had proved a success as a fun, group programme for young women to work on a number of issues in a structured and safe environment.

The sessions also included a jewellery craft session which proved a highlight for the girls.

Mr Stewart said Go Girls had proved popular and the students were able to discuss issues such as body image, stress, relationships and keeping safe.