A GROUP of South Lakeland school children have spent a day at a mosque as part of their work on different religions.

Youngsters from Levens C of E Primary School journeyed to West Yorkshire to learn about Islam at Bradford's Madni Jamia Masjid Mosque, as part of their work in religious education (RE).

"The children thoroughly enjoyed the trip, and developed a good understanding of how the mosque functions as a place of worship," explained headteacher, Matt Foxwell.

"The children have been studying about the five pillars of Islam, so this was a perfect opportunity to take the learning outside of the classroom."

Children from all year groups had already visited their nearby St Johns Church, and the trip enabled them to compare a Christian church with an Islamic place of worship.

During their visit they wore head coverings, to comply with traditional Muslim dress rules, and were taught about Islam, Islamic writings and even took part in some art and craft activities.

"This trip was a wonderful opportunity, and I’m really pleased that at Levens School, we offer our pupils these new experiences, like visiting a Mosque and the chance to further their learning," continued Mr Foxwell.

"We have a cycle of different religions which the children study and the trip formed part of the work they have been doing on Islam."

Pupils at the Church Road school followed up their visit with a series of Islam-themed days.

They created several Muslim dishes, created artwork based on designs seen in prayer mats and studied and composed music inspired by the religion's 'call to prayer'.

The children’s work was shared with parents at a special assembly.