PATRIOTIC youngsters celebrated all that is "great" about Britain.

The Valley School held its first British History Day and helping to mark it were great figures from the past including the Kings and Queens of England with their knights and figures from times gone by.

Others dressed in colours of the flag and staff joined in too.

Youngsters enjoyed traditional British pastimes in the run-up to the day, including baking scones, creating bunting and Union Jacks, and making weaving wheels — using hoops.

During the day, children enjoyed an afternoon tea party, sang songs including London Bridge is Falling Down, Land of Hope and Glory and the National Anthem.

They also tried their hand at barn dancing and traditional English games, working in teams named after the royal families of Windsor, Tudor and York.

Headteacher Mr Kevin Naughton said: "Great Britain is rich with history and culture and this was an opportunity for us, as a school, to celebrate being British.

"It was a huge success because the children gained so much from it.

"The variety of activities ensured they took part in subjects including art, geography, history, design and technology, as well as singing, dancing and PE. It's been a hectic but thoroughly enjoyable day."

Children all had a favourite activity.

Amaani Haffeji, aged seven, said: "My favourite part of the day was playing tennis on the field with a little boy from reception.

"We also learned a little bit of history about Wimbledon."

Hamza Patel, aged seven, added: "We did a British treasure map and we loved it."

Ayesha Nagori, aged 11, said: "My favourite part of the day was when we had to discuss different foods that people eat in the UK.

" We had to design biscuits too — that was awesome!"

Aisha Essap, aged 11, added: "My favourite activity was when we made a PowerPoint based on the Union Jack.

"We used different websites and resources and tried hard to be creative."