YOUNGSTERS took to the stage for an evening of song, dance and poetry to celebrate their learning about Africa.

Children from East Cowton and Kirkby Fleetham CE primary schools performed in front of a packed audience at the Georgian Theatre Royal in Richmond.

Pupils as young as four took part in a diverse programme of performances from African drumming and Swahili chants, to interpretations of iconic songs such as Peter Gabriel’s Biko.

Headteacher Helen Dudman said: “The children have been hugely inspired by our Africa topic this term and we felt we wanted to showcase their achievements somewhere special.

“We have taken the African theme into our learning in all our subjects, and their musical performances were set to a backdrop of stunning artwork, interspersed with presentations of maths, science and technology projects.”

Children also worked alongside professional dance coach Jaye Bower who choreographed several dances especially for the event.

Moved by the current famine in East Africa, the children chose to make a collection for the appeal raising £200.