YEAR Five school children from across the Forest had an insight into secondary school life thanks to Dean Academy in Lydney.

As part of its transition programme for local primary schools, pupils had an opportunity to meet students and teachers and participate in various fun activities such as cooking pizzas, making key tags, learning about rocket science in a Mission to Mars workshop and using robots to learn about programming. Children also developed their team building and communication skills.

Mrs Alison Ball, head of transition at the academy, said: "Staff at The Dean Academy always look forward to creating practical, hands on activities for the Year Five transition days.

"Children get the chance to make use of facilities such as our design and technology workshops, the food technology rooms, science labs and also our new learning resource centre.

"It is a great opportunity for them to experience different aspects of secondary school life. The children really enjoyed themselves and we have had lots of positive feedback. We look forward to running a similar event next year."

Primrose Hill School pupil, Ben Hughes said: "I have had a really good time at the academy and have tried lots of new things. I enjoyed the metal work and making a key tag; it was really fun."

•See this week's Review for more photographs.