More than 100 pupils at St Colmcille's Primary School in Downpatrick have taken part in a Housing Executive-led session on maintaining healthy homes.

Using the story Hattie the House, staff from the Housing Executive explained to P2 and P3 classes how everyday habits can prevent issues such as damp and condensation. The tale follows a boy whose talking house falls into disrepair before an inspector helps restore it, showing the importance of home care.

Stephen Austin, principal of St Colmcille's, said the workshop helped children understand practical steps to keep homes safe. Gareth Morgan, team leader at the Housing Executive, told pupils that simple actions like opening windows and covering pots while cooking can keep a home in good condition throughout the year.

The session was part of a partnership with Business in the Community Northern Ireland, which runs the Time to Read programme in schools. Ciara Mulgrew, programme manager, said the collaboration supports literacy and builds connections between schools and employers.

Each child received a copy of Hattie the House, provided by M3 Housing. Joanna Gawlinska-Moore, the company's head of marketing, said the donation aims to teach families about tackling common home problems.