ONE of the first social skills you're taught at school is how to time manage effectively. Not only do you have to finish homework and get to lessons; you have to get to school on time as well.

This can be easier for some than for others. Some people are notoriously "late" people and others are early birds.

One Worcestershire school decided that the way to encourage conscientious behaviour was to reward pupils for their efforts.

Westlands First School in Droitwich has teamed up with McDonald's to offer free hamburgers and fries to youngsters who can show achievement in citizenship and attendance.

It seems that this decision has raised people's eyebrows. Numerous people have said to me, as an education reporter, that the whole idea is outrageous.

And, after hearing their strong arguments, it does seem a little sad that in today's society, the way to encourage children into school is by giving them McDonald's vouchers.

Whatever happened to house points? I remember feeling a great sense of pride when I got a sticker next to my name.

It's a good idea to reward people for their efforts. Everyone, young and old, likes to know when they've been doing something well.

Perhaps house points or form points just aren't enough for our children who think playing computer games is better than playing in the garden.

But how do the parents feel about this new type of initiative? What happens if you're trying to steer your children away from burgers and fries? Surely there has to be some other sort of initiative which can encourage studious pupils?

McDonald's said it was approached by Worcestershire LEA, which was concerned about the school's attendance levels.

Perhaps we should be asking why students are turning up late for school instead of sending them off to McDonald's when they manage to arrive on time.