Youngsters cracked out their coloured pencils as they got crafty to celebrate VE Day.
Pupils from Branfil Primary School and Drapers’ Brookside Junior School created striking bunting and drawings to mark the anniversary.
Branfil, in Cedar Avenue, Upminster, has a connection to the Second World War as air raid warden Frank Garwood was killed where it now stands.
He is commemorated through a plaque and the Garwood Court play area.
Deputy headteacher Louise Fisk said: “Our Year 6 pupils have learned about the impact of the war on their area, including the death of Frank Garwood.
“Our pupils and staff felt celebrating the anniversary of VE Day was very important as it reminds us all of the freedom we enjoy in our daily lives.”
Angela Winch, executive principal at Drapers’ Brookside, in Dagnam Park Drive, Harold Hill, said: “In preparation for our VE Day street party, the children have enjoyed learning about this important celebration.
“They produced artwork and decorations to help make the party a day to remember.”
Meanwhile, Year 5 pupils at Ardleigh Green Junior School, in Ardleigh Green Road, have just started their Second World War topic, featuring drama sessions and diary writing.
Teacher Laura Chenery said: “I think the war is so popular with the children as we approach it through the eyes of a child living through the war years.
“They adopt a name and create an imaginary family.
“I hope the children will be able to appreciate that their way of life is partly due to the sacrifice of people in the past.”
A special supplement celebrating the 70th anniversary of VE Day is inside this week’s paper, featuring residents’ memories and a spread looking at the impact of the Second World War on east London.
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