Rayleigh children stepped back in time to experience life at a Victorian school.

Pupils dressed up, took part in old-style classroom and PE lessons, and made old-fashioned wooden toys during Edward Francis Infants' Victorian Day.

Deputy head Sandra Herring said the day - which followed weeks of study on the Victorian era - had been a great success.

The morning started with a Victorian lesson, complete with slates, and was followed by PE and a play session with hoops, wooden balls and traditional games.

In the afternoon, more than 30 parents and grandparents - mainly in costume - turned up at the school to take part in a craft session.

Mrs Herring said: "They made wooden boats, lavender bags and all kinds of things that children in Victorian times would have made to use themselves.

"It was a real community success - the children had a wonderful time."

Mrs Herring added that a cane and dunce hat were put into the classroom but were assured they would not be used.

Apple - David Baker, five, presents his gift to teacher Sandra Herring

Hard at work - Pauline Mackenzie-Moore watches Lydia Hearn, five, at work

Pictures: MIKE BELLENIE

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