PUPILS at a town school have been learning about different cultures and traditions during a special event.

The youngsters from Aston Fields Middle School, in Drummond Road, took part in a special All Different, All Equal day held last Wednesday, February 12.

The event is held annually at the school and is designed to encourage the pupils to appreciate, value and respect the wide ranging diversity of people's backgrounds.

It also aims to build common ground and values between different groups within the community.

Year five pupils studied India, learning about Indian traditions, constructing kites, and making friendship bracelets.

The children also designed rangoli and Mehndi patterns, tasted food from the region and learned some traditional dance moves, which they performed in groups.

Pupils in year six focused on eastern Europe, tasting food from Poland, joining in some traditional Cossack dancing and learning Russians numbers to 10.

They also made traditional Russian dolls, and learned Russians songs.

Year seven looked at the Carribean, tasting traditional foods from the region and learning to play the steel drums, with visiting musicians.

Pupils also made carnival masks, holiday brochures and took part in traditional Caribbean activities, including limbo dancing.

The youngsters of year eight had the chance to play Gamalan music from Indonesia, then tried their skills at origami and Japanese writing.

They also worked in groups to create a manga -  a Japanese style cartoon - and used their science skills to analyse, test, taste and name a variety of green teas, after observing a green tea ceremony.

Carole Teer, assistant headteacher at the Aston Fields school, said: "A wonderful day was had, celebrating cultural diversity and sharing important messages common to us all.

"Thanks to all the staff and pupils who made it a day to remember."