It was all aboard for fun learning when a Stagecoach South East double decker made a special stop at St Gregory’s Catholic Primary in Margate.
The visit was just the ticket for Year 1 children who have been captivated reading about the adventures of The Naughty Bus in a colourful tale by Jan Oke.
When a real bus pulled up to their doorstep the eager pupils couldn’t wait to climb the steps, explore inside and try out the driver’s cabin for size.
They also had the opportunity to speak to Paul the driver and manager Sarah and ask questions about the bus.
It tied in beautifully with the eye-catching picture book that uses photographs to depict a child’s imaginative game as he plays with the present of a toy London bus. The bus has a multitude of adventures, including speeding through a plate of beans and falling into the garden pond.
Year 1 teacher Jordan Gilbert, said: “Seeing a double decker at school really caught the imagination of the children, who explored the bus and got to sit in the driver’s seat. They were able to ask questions about what it’s like being a bus driver and learn more about their routines when they are on a journey.
“They have already eagerly retold their experience through creative writing, and will be sending thank you letters to Paul the driver.”
Head Teacher Dave Walker was delighted the children were so excited. He explained: “The very first thing we considered before using this book was how many of our children have actually been on a bus, and the answer was not very many at all.
“We want our curriculum to be one of opportunity for these children and we’re incredibly grateful to Stagecoach South East for linking with us on this. It was a fantastic community liaison and it certainly enhanced the literacy learning for our younger pupils.”