Lessons were brought to life as Witham pupils took a trip to Rome.

Classical civilisation pupils from Maltings Academy spent their half-term break in Italy to see up close what they had been studying in class.

Teacher Tim Farrow said: “We visited the town of Pompeii, covered by a volcanic eruption nearly 2000 years ago, the mighty centre of the Roman Empire, the city of Rome, the Vatican, as well as many museums, attractions and activities.

“Our fully-packed, five-day programme kept us busy all day, but still left us time to celebrate with the festival of St Antonino, patron saint of Sorrento, visit the Trevi fountain, Spanish steps and, importantly, buy an Italian ice cream.

“A great time was had by all."