A GANG of bloodthirsty pirates invaded a Winsford Primary school for the day.

The scurvy sea dogs from Darnhall Primary School donned their most fearsome pirate costumes to cap off an exciting journey through the cut-throat lives of pirates.

Reception class pupils aged between 4 and 5-years-old have been exploring many aspects of pirate life, including map reading in the hunt for treasure.

Pupils got into the spirit of pirate day by singing a number of songs and pretending to be a pirate in their role play area, which has been transformed into a Pirate ship.

All of the little terrors all made mini treasure chests and shared pirate snacks, including hand-made skull and cross bone biscuits, as part of the day.

Jennifer Rowland, class teacher, said: “This topic has really inspired the children to move forwards in their learning whilst also having great fun.

“We have made pirate snack, played climbed the rigging, hunted for treasure and made individual treasure chests alongside many other themed activities.

“The children have particularly enjoyed drawing and making treasure maps for each other to follow whilst developing their writing and maths skills.”

It’s not the first time youngsters from Darnhall Primary School incorporated role play as part of their learning.

Last October, children from the school got taste of what true love is like after taking part in a ‘mock’ wedding.

Year 2 pupils learnt about ceremonies that take place in churches as part of the RE curriculum, and planned and participated in a pretend wedding ceremony at St Chad’s Church.

Sarah Tomlinson, Darnhall Primary School, said role play plays an important part in the reception classes as it helps the children’s ‘social and communication development’.

“All the parents and carers have supported their child’s learning throughout this topic and provided fabulous costumes,” she said.

“Role play in our Reception classes is so important for the children’s social and communication development and they have all loved ’being pirates’ for the day.

“It has been wonderful to see the children so involved and excited in their learning.”