Youngsters learning about the Great Fire of London could actually feel the heat of the flames.

To end their topic, key stage one pupils at Aire View School, Silsden, created a row of 17th century-style homes – and then set it on fire.

“They sang London’s Burning as the houses were engulfed by the flames,” said assistant headteacher, Tim Whitehead. “It really brought the topic to life and the children watched in awe and wonder. Just seeing their faces was worth all the effort.”

He added that a risk assessment had been carried out and one of the parents, who was a firefighter, was on hand with a fire extinguisher.