SCHOOL children learned the art of combat as part of a literary celebration.

Year three pupils at Ysgol Ty Ffynnon in Shotton took part in a combat and acting workshop, held as part of National Shakespeare Week.

Nia Goldsmith, headteacher at the school, told the Leader that the children worked with a professional combat artist to access the language and battles of Shakespeare.

She explained: “It was a fantastic day. The children had a great time and they learned a lot in a fun and accessible way.

“They used sponge swords to learn different stances and moves but it was also about learning to protect themselves, safety rules and how to work together.

“We did it last year and it was a big success again this year.”

The event at the school was funded by CADW and Flintshire Council’s arts, culture and events section.

Shakespeare Week, which ran from March 18 to 24, was created and is coordinated by the charity Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.

The scheme aims to give children a great first encounter with Shakespeare, his characters, stories and language.