RIVINGTON and Blackrod High School may have closed for the long holiday but its summer school threw open its gates for young explorers.

Year six pupils spent two weeks of their summer break taking part in an Explorers of Time project — discovering more about the past of the Horwich school where they will move to in September.

They discovered more about the school’s past and present ahead of its 450 year anniversary.

Youngsters explored the local area of Rivington, taking part in sports activities from the past and the present, and using drama to go "time travelling".

Pupils also produced a watercolour painting showing how the school could look 100 years into the future.

The aim of the summer school is to help young people to improve their key skills in a fun environment.

Children taking part also developed skills of team work, leadership and independent learning while trying new activities.

The lessons were also designed to help youngsters settle into secondary school life ahead of joining the school next month, as they got to know the building, the teachers and made new friends.

As a reward for their hard work, the students took a trip to Cadbury's World and Blackpool Pleasure Beach before being presented with medals and certificates for their successes at a rewards ceremony on the final day.

Tony Purcell, head teacher said: “Summer schools are so worthwhile in helping the transition between primary and secondary school and we are pleased that this has been such a great success, particularly in striking the right balance between skills based learning with more creative and fun sessions.

"All in all, it has been an amazing and worthwhile summer school where young people have had fun.

"Thank you to all staff who have made this happen and the young people for taking such an active part.”