EYE patches, parrots and plastic swords were donned by pupils playing pirates at a York primary school.

Year 2 youngsters at Hempland Primary School in Heworth have been working on a pirate topic this half term and a special swashbuckling expedition was held to celebrate their achievements. The children learnt all things pirate, from famous pirates throughout time, life on a pirate ship and the different types of Jolly Rogers.

Class teacher, Abbie Innes, said: “Having the pirate day has allowed the children to use the knowledge and skills learnt over the term – and most of all, have fun.”

The children celebrated by dressing, talking and acting like pirates and have made their own treasure boxes, pirate-themed arts and crafts and even a ruthless pirate ship. The children thoroughly enjoyed the activities."

Some of the youngsters said what they liked learning most about pirate life. Imogen Rhoads, aged six, said: “Learning about pirates from real pirate Captain Burwash.”

Miles Duncan, aged seven, said: “What pirates eat and drink and life on a pirate ship.”

Monty Parmiter, seven, said: “I didn’t know that there were any girl pirates.”

Parents and carers are invited to a special assembly at the school on Friday, April 4 to see the children's work.