SIX lucky children from Okehampton Primary School have returned from a school trip with a difference.

The trip took the children and three of their teachers to their sister school — Franziscus Grundschule in Dortmund, Germany — as part of the Comenius Project, which encourages children to share cultures, activities, stories, songs and festivities.

The children and teachers all really enjoyed the trip.?Year 6 pupil Chloe Brooking said: 'It was the best experience ever. It was great to meet the children from Franziskus Grundschule and see how their school works.'

The visit gave the Okehampton children a chance to meet pupils, teachers and school governors from Franziscus School, as well as the mayor of Dortmund.

They also worked with the German pupils to build a model European playground, and had the chance to visit the Christmas market in Dortmund with its famous giant Christmas tree.

The children even sang a German carol at the school Christmas concert.

Okehampton Primary School's project is entitled 'WinDoors into Europe' and encourages children from schools in Italy, Germany and two other British schools to investigate different views through windows and doors into their local environment.

Teacher Frances Rickwood, who accompanied the children on the trip, said the experience was hugely valuable: 'The children enjoyed the opportunity to learn about new cultures, and this increased their confidence, independence and communication skills.'

In preparation for the trip, the children, along with their parents and teachers had attended German language evenings at Okehampton College.

The staff at Okehampton Primary expressed thanks to Okehampton College for providing this additional support for their children.

The children and staff now look forward to sharing letters with their new friends over the next year, and in April staff from Okehampton's sister schools in Italy and Germany will visit Devon.