YOUNGSTERS got a taste of life in a restaurant when they swapped their classroom for the kitchen.

Pupils from St John the Evangelist School in Bromley Cross, spent a morning kneading the dough with Pizza Express chef, Mark Brince.

They were given a choice of fillings to top off their tasty snacks, before they were cooked in the Wood Street restaurant’s ovens.

The children took their pizzas home as a teatime treat for their families.

Reception teacher, Lesley Jackson, said: “We are doing a topic on food and it is really important that we bring the curriculum to life.

“That’s why I contacted Pizza Express and they were kind enough to say we could come down free of charge.

“The children had a wonderful time.

“It was really hands-on and the staff have been very kind.

“The children were shown around the restaurant and it was a really good learning experience for them.”

Pupil Jack Warburton, aged five, said: “I loved going to Pizza Express and I liked making my pizza with peppers, olives and green things.” Sofia Villa, aged four, added: “I really liked the trip. My best bit was eating the pizza, and the olives were nice and juicy.”

The Bolton town centre restaurant welcomes classes of youngsters on a regular basis. Duty manager, Angela Ferreira, said: “The sessions are something that we do to allow the children to see what it is like at a restaurant. They also teach them about cooking and are a good way to learn.”