ROBERT Le Kyng Primary School pupils built a wooden throne in their playground with the help of an expert.

The youngsters spent all day working with saws and power drills to construct the storytelling throne out of larch and chestnut wood, which teachers hope will encourage them to read more.

Kate McKinnon, deputy headteacher, said: “We were keen to give the children as many first-hand experiences as possible.

“They got to work with tools that they wouldn’t normally use, developed a sense of community, and they got the rewarding feeling of starting and finishing a project.

“They learned how to manage resources, follow instructions and work as a team, which are all skills they can put towards future work.

“Learning how to be safe is not all about avoiding risk, it’s about how to seek advice, the importance of following instructions, and knowing what tools to use for which job.

“The children can use this storytelling throne at playtime and lunchtime, they’re encouraged to further their love of reading.

Richard Barry from Learning Through Landscapes guided the 10 pupils through the two-day project and ensured that they used the tools safely.

Learning Through Landscapes is a charity based in Winchester which helps schools develop their outdoor learning

He said: “This is the first year we’ve worked with Swindon schools, the pupils and teachers have been so lovely and enthusiastic.

“The kids had a choice of different things to make – a bench, a planter, a bee hotel, a throne – and they chose the throne.

“They measured it, cut it, sanded the wood, drilled the holes, and learned how to use the hand tools safely.

“During their lunchtime, I made a concrete base for the throne so it’ll stay up whatever the weather.

“Making things has been squeezed out of the school curriculum quite a lot so projects like this are important.

“The school ends up with a nice resource which looks really impressive and the pupils improved their crafting and building skills through practical, hands-on learning.”