Anyone passing down Latchmere Road last week could have been forgiven for thinking they had stumbled into Kingston, Jamaica, rather than Kingston-upon-Thames, after two schools created their own Caribbean-themed islands in their playgrounds.
About 300 children from Latchmere and St Agatha’s primary schools joined forces to create the two neighbouring islands - the former’s based around the school swimming pool, and the latter’s taking over the pupils’ adventure playground.
The enormous exercise was designed to show children how working together can bring rewards, and the pupils really went to town with their designs.
One island featured mini go-karting, a haunted house and even a customer services department for unhappy punters, while the other included a coconut penalty shootout stand, mini beach and cocktail bar.
Latchmere headteacher Julie Ritchie said: “This was an ambitious project the staff took on and to their credit, they have led the children in a fantastic learning experience.
“The message we wanted them to take home was that if you work hard you become more successful, and this brings its own rewards, both in terms of economic well-being and just feeling good about yourself.
“I loved visiting both islands – I just wish every day at school could be such fun.”
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