TEACHERS have always known that some pupils struggle to concentrate after lunch, but one Welsh school has come up with an ingenious solution to afternoon malaise.

Pupils now get the chance to sing on a karaoke machine at lunchtimes to keep their minds fresh.

Karaoke sessions have become a popular playtime activity at Penyrheol Primary School, in Gorseinon.

Head teacher Alison Williams bought the machine to give children something constructive to do when they are not in lessons.

Now, each lunchtime, pupils at the school take over the karaoke machine and sing their favourite hits.

It is thought the activity helps concentration levels during the afternoon, a time when many pupils are easily distracted and become restless.

And educational psychologists have given their approval to the karaoke machine being used by children.

Mrs Williams hopes the machine has helped teachers as well as pupils in improving their education.

She said, "Many children find playtime the most challenging part of the day. It is quite busy and noisy, so it can be quite daunting.

"This can have a significant impact on learning in the afternoon. A lot of lesson-time is spent sorting out problems. But, if they've had a lovely lunchtime there are no anxieties.

"It is all about giving the children a voice. We provide the opportunity for children to take the responsibility of organising things themselves.

"They have lunchtime dance clubs that they run themselves and they come up with some great routines.

"They asked if they could have the karaoke machine to call out instructions and sing along to."

Mrs Williams said the self-esteem of the pupils has risen since the introduction of the karaoke machine, with children ready to learn more after their break.

The school also plays pop music as children wait for their lunch and Mrs Williams said the music has helped create a happy atmosphere.

She added, "It has made a great difference as everyone is much happier. I've never seen the dinner ladies smile so much.

"You could see it as a lowering of discipline but we want to be a child-friendly school and it's about taking their ideas and making them work for everyone."

Dr Robert Burden, professor of applied educational psychology at Exeter University, applauded the Penyrheol Primary School's originality.

He said, "Frankly, this sounds a great idea.

"First of all, when you observe children in playgrounds you see how important the latest pop songs are in their lives - they know all the dance moves of their favourite groups.

"It is a significant part of their lives that we are sometimes in danger of overlooking and concentrating on the academic side of things.

"Secondly, anything that can be fun and add to the fun of being in school will encourage children to enjoy being in school and that is important.

"Thirdly, singing is terrific for young people, it gives them confidence. For example, I am a professor at Exeter University and I am afraid to stand up and sing in public, so this karaoke machine will help the children.

"It is tremendously valuable for young people and is a very positive way of getting rid of energy and keeping them involved.

"It is the sort of thing that should be brought into more schools more often."