LUCKY year five pupils in Winsford swapped their classroom for an indoor ski slope to help them with their geography studies.

Members of Hawthorn Class at Oak View Academy received an engaging lesson at Chill Factore Manchester, with teacher Heather Hickman saying: "It was brilliant - everyone had such a fantastic time!

"The trip was linked to our geography topic this term, in which we have been comparing Cheshire with a contrasting European region, Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes in France.

"As part of this unit of work, we have explored similarities and differences between the human and physical geography of both locations.

"In particular, we have explored the Alps and how they are used by tourists.

"Since skiing is such a popular tourist activity in the Alps, we thought it would be a fantastic opportunity to bring their learning to life through a really special experience."

Oak View is run by North West Academies Trust (NWAT), which places special importance on encouraging learning outside the classroom. Weaverham Academy and Delamere Academy, both near Northwich, are among the six other NWAT primary schools where children's 'eyes are opened to a wonderful world of possibilities'.