The Oscar-winning makers of children’s favourite Wallace and Gromit visited a school near Potters Bar to help get youngsters excited about food.

Animation studio Aardman’s senior model maker, Jim Parkyn, entertained pupils from Years 1 to 6 at Northaw Church of England Primary School and taught them how to make models of Gromit.

The children were also visited by giant Wallace and Gromit characters, who definitely weren’t teachers in fancy dress costumes.

Throughout the sessions, Jim used fruit and vegetables as comparisons to help children learn about different types of food – for example pointing out how Gromit’s toes are actually the size of garden peas.

Headteacher Shirley Whales said: “The staff and children have had a ‘Grand Day Out’ of the classroom learning how to make clay models under the guidance of a model maker from Aardman.

“There were a few ‘Close Shaves’ with legs and tails falling off but the children showed great resilience and persevered with the task.

“As we come to the end of another successful year at Northaw this has been a real end of term treat, a truly cracking day.”

She also thanked Hertfordshire Catering Limited (HCL), which organised the day.

HCL chief executive Lin O’Brien said: “We’re teaming up with Aardman as part of our drive to spark interest and knowledge in different foods.

“We work hard at every stage to make sure all meal times are a positive part of the school day; themed meal times and special events like this help children develop an interest in good food from the outset.”