The sun agreed to shine for the Dame B's Year 6 trip to London, where their work on democracy and the work of parliament were complemented in a lively manner by two enthusiastic guides at the Palace of Westminster.

The children were shown both chambers, and the history and national status of the building was made clear. They were fascinated and, in good SPF tradition, asked some searching questions to satisfy their curiosity. They are now looking forward to their Q&A session with Saffron Walden MP Kemi Badenoch at Dame B's later in the term.

A sunny walk up Whitehall led the children to the National Gallery, where they enjoyed an introductory talk to the collection and learnt about its place in the national heritage. They were encouraged to think for themselves and to appreciate the chosen paintings from their own viewpoint. For many of them this was the first visit to a "proper" art gallery, and they were suitably awed by it.

Staff were proud to accompany our enthusiastic, knowledgable, curious learners for this visit to two of the nation's iconic buildings. A great day out!