LITTLE ones have been inspired by university students as part of a campaign to entice more children into the arts.

Year Five pupils at Unity Primary School took part in the scheme, funded by the Royal Opera House Bridge arm of Arts Council England, which is aimed at connecting children and young people to art and culture.

As part of their degree studies, the university students have been designing arts-based workshops for children at the Hickory Avenue school.

Each child who took part in the scheme has been awarded Arts Award Explore certificates, which is an accredited national qualification.

The pupils donned caps and gowns to pick up their scrolls in front of an audience of more than 150 people.

Kate Beckwith, arts education project manager at Essex University, said: "It’s been a brilliant two-way learning experience – our undergraduate students have gained an incredible amount from working with the children.

"Unity Primary Academy has been an absolute pleasure to work with – their dedication to their learners and support of our students has made the project a real pleasure. I’d like to thank them for all their support."

Charlotte Booth-Rylett, head at Unity, added: "Unity’s children can almost see the university from their homes and yet it seemed a million miles away.

"All of the adults at Unity are committed to raising children’s aspirations.

"We wanted to de-mystify the university and let them know that this incredible resource is on their doorstep."