Staff at a Dorchester school have gone above and beyond to inspire the next generation of writers, geographers, explorers and pilots by transforming their playing field - with the help of the Royal Navy.

Children arrived at The Prince of Wales School this week to a snow-covered runway breaking out through the front doors of their school, with headteacher Gary Spracklen dressed in 'steam-punk' clothing next to a 20 ft Christmas tree.

Playing the role of airport manager, Mr Spracklen welcomed children into the #InspiredToLearn Arctic Airfield, which also included a full-size Santa sleigh complete with Rudolf the Red Nose Reindeer.

Children were shocked to come across a snow-covered airfield where their main school corridor once was.

Year 4 pupil Alfie said: "We all thought we were coming to school for a normal day of learning. It's a real surprise to find out our school has been transported to another world. It's a very exciting place to be."

The transformation, part of an inspiring week of learning at the school, meant the children found themselves in an on-site arrivals lounge awaiting the arrival of a very special guest.

Year 2 pupil Grace said: "Everyone kept saying that someone special was due to arrive shortly in a hot air balloon. Someone called Phileas Fogg. Apparently, he's an adventurer who is on an around the world trip in 80 days. I think we are going to find out more about it soon. I really hope we get to meet him in person."

Speaking about the work staff have done to make such an inspiring event come together, assistant headteacher, Mrs Sam Johnson said: "It's taken the team here at The Prince of Wales School lots of time to plan out the individual elements to ensure the week truly inspires all our young learners.

"We've worked with a number of partner organisations to make this happen, including the Royal Navy, which has been highly supportive of our plans.

"Over the weekend, a dedicated team of our own staff came into school and secretly transformed our corridors and classroom spaces."

Mr Kevin Tatchell, chairman of governors at The Prince of Wales School, said: "This transformation has only been possible because of the hard work of a dedicated staff team.

"At The prince of Wales School, we have an ethos that welcomes all learners and seeks to inspire everyone to learn. Our staff care deeply about providing the very best experience for each and every child at our school."

With such inspirational practice, it is no surprise that The Prince of Wales School has its many plaudits. In its most recent Ofsted inspection, the inspector said: "Leaders have ensured that the school's engaging curriculum is inspiring pupils to learn. There is a breadth of coverage which is underpinned by numerous opportunities for pupils to develop their writing."

They added: "Teachers look for every opportunity to supplement the curriculum with activities and events that inspire pupils and fire their imagination."

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