Youngsters from a village primary school enjoyed a great day out at a local estate, Dartington Hall.

Hawks class from Diptford CofE Primary School were the lucky ones, taking advantage of good weather to enjoy a full day of outdoor learning including seeing deer, an archaeological dig and a navigation activity.

Children found many historical artefacts including gun shells, coins, flints from the stone age, clay pipes, belt buckles and even a Victorian iron. They placed their finds on a historical timeline and discussed what could be learnt from them, coming to the conclusion that the area was mainly used for farming and hunting in the past.

The children learnt how to read and use four figure grid references, combined with a compass and map, to navigate their way through the woods. They saw the river Dart, heard the steam train and could even see across to the church at Staverton.

After a much needed lunch break, Hawks burnt off steam in the adventure playground before heading back to school.

Class teacher Mrs Neil said: "It is really important for the children to have these different experiences and to know that, wherever they are, there is always something to learn. We have such fabulous resources on our doorstep that we are extremely fortunate to be able to take the opportunities to enhance our pupils’ learning."

Back at school, the new preschool building is approaching completion. Preschool children took the opportunity to inspect their new home, with one or two offering some very sound advice.

There will be a grand opening of the new preschool on Wednesday, November 1 at 3.30pm, with refreshments available and Emazdad on hand to provide entertainment. All are welcome.