SCHOOLCHILDREN have turned their classroom continental as part of a fun-filled themed day to learn all about France.

Youngsters at Heathfield Primary School, in Darlington, enjoyed a traditional breakfast of pastries to kick off their French-themed day while all dressed in the red, white and blue of the French flag.

Pupils between Year 1 and Year 6 came used their best French manners and greetings with their peers and teachers, who also taught them the geography of the country.

The inclusive experience included a special visit from French teachers at Hummersknott Academy who helped schoolchildren create art displays inspired by Renoir, Monet, Rodin and Cezanne.

Helen Tarokh, headteacher at Heathfield Primary School, said: “Our French teacher Mrs Dunn arranged a fun-filled themed day with lots of creative art activities, singing, language practice and French food. It was a wonderful learning experience and the children really enjoyed it.

“At Heathfield we really try to offer an enriching, varied and creative curriculum which we hope engages our children and increases their desire to learn, both educationally and about the world around them.”

Heathfield Primary School is part of Lingfield Education Trust, a Multi-Academy Trust which is based in Darlington and has six schools throughout the area, Teesside and North Yorkshire.

Nick Blackburn, chief executive of Lingfield Education Trust, said: “We hope Heathfield pupils had a fantastic day and really felt inspired by learning about another interesting culture.”