Most people know Pack Up Your Troubles in Your Old Kit Bag or It's a Long Way to Tipperary as marching lyrics sung in the First World War trenches to strengthen morale.

Eastern Daily Press: Pupils at The Parkers School in Saham Toney got the chance to experience what life was like during a WW1 reneactment day. Picture: Matthew Usher.Pupils at The Parkers School in Saham Toney got the chance to experience what life was like during a WW1 reneactment day. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © Archant Norfolk 2014)

But this week those songs were echoing across Saham Toney as children aged four to 11 re-created wartime life at Parker's Primary School.

Eastern Daily Press: Pupils at The Parkers School in Saham Toney got the chance to experience what life was like during a WW1 reneactment day. Picture: Matthew Usher.Pupils at The Parkers School in Saham Toney got the chance to experience what life was like during a WW1 reneactment day. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © Archant Norfolk 2014)

As part of the school's topic focusing on conflict, all 99 children took to the field in costume to re-enact life during the First World War.

From a trench dug outside, to a hospital based at 'Gallipoli' and a recruitment office in Watton, the youngsters got a flavour of what life was like a century ago.

Headteacher Laura Sproston said the day brought parents, pupils, and teachers together. 'The children have been working towards learning about aspects of the First World War because of the special anniversary,' she said. 'Parents helped dig a trench which gave the children the chance to get a really good idea about what life was like.

'We talked about how the war was supposed to be the war to end all wars but 20 years later there was another world war.

'A lot of our children understand because their parents are in the forces.'

A funding scheme has been set up in Breckland to support projects commemorating the start of the First World War.

The district council is providing grants of up to £500 to support a wide range of projects such as documenting the war through film or audio recordings, collecting personal stories and memories, staging exhibitions, producing books or organising talks.

Guidance notes and application forms are on the Breckland Council website www.breckland.gov.uk. All applications must be received by May 9.

Are you organising an event to mark the centenary? EDP Great War correspondent Kim Briscoe is keen to hear from you. Call 01603 772474 or email kim.briscoe@archant.co.uk