AHOY me’ hearties! Youngsters at Great Dunmow Primary School are making use of an exciting new learning resource - a pirate ship!

This year the school, which opened in 2003, has been looking to develop the learning experience of its foundation years and that saw three new pieces of play equipment recently installed - two teepees, complete with climbing frames, and the fun pirate ship.

Headteacher Sylvia Ruck said: “The younger children of the school needed more resources to help with their creative thinking and these pieces of outdoor play equipment are really exciting. It has enriched the curriculum and the children have really enjoyed playing on them.”

The school also held a competition to name the pirate ship - four-year-old Harrison McGrath won with his effort of “Treasure Chest” which was painted onto the ship.

The youngster picked up some pieces of eight - or two bags of gold (chocolate) coins - as a reward.