Youngsters put their detective skills to the test after a mysterious block of ice appeared at a village school.

Children and their parents at Coltishall Primary School were greeted with the mystery, surrounded by biohazard tape, on the playing field this morning.

The event, set up by teachers, was part of creative learning week with a difference for the whole school encouraging them to question things and work together.

Firefighters, PCSO and University of East Anglia professors were called on for their expertise during the operation.

Year three teacher Annie Nicholson, who was behind the idea, said: 'It is to hone in on inquiry-based learning and trying to get the children to learn creatively. We want them to develop thinking skills and work together.

'We think that in the future employers and universities will be looking for these skills.'

Possible theories behind the ice being discussed by the excited children, aged five-11, included the solar eclipse, aliens, and ice comets.

Other children thought the ice came from the moons of Juipter and penguins on the South Pole.

Mrs Nicholson was impressed with the 'buzz' of the children.

'Learning isn't just about attainment in exams,' she added.

The ice mystery will be incorporated across all subjects this week and tests will include measuring the pH values of the liquid.

Friends Eva Herald and Eve Prentice, both seven, from Coltishall, described the day as 'totally rocking' and 'exciting'.

Parent Sally Clark, from Horstead, who works at the school, said: 'It is amazing. It is making them think completely differently. They are so happy.'

PSCO Helen Emerson, from Aylsham Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: 'It is brilliant. It has been a good way to engage with the kids.'

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