WITH this year marking the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare's death, pupils at Garswood Primary School swapped their uniforms for Elizabethan costumes and spent the week celebrating the life and work of Britain's greatest national treasure.

In preparation for Shakespeare Week, which takes place from March 14 to 20, school children were given an early indication of the influence he has had on English literature through a series of workshops.

Headteacher Pam Potter said: "Shakespeare is an important part of British culture and is synonymous with literature - that's why it is absolutely essential that children of today learn about his world renowned work, so that his legacy can continue."

On Tuesday (January 26), actors from the Young Shakespeare Company performed The Tempest for Key Stage 1 children, in a fast-moving, fully interactive production which was adapted for the children.

On Wednesday, children took part in an Elizabethan Dance workshop throughout the day, run by Real History Hire, which involved dressing up in traditional costumes.

Educational theatre company West End in Schools paid a visit on Thursday as they ran class-by-class drama workshops on different acts of A Midsummer Night's Dream, before a final performance was delivered in front of the whole school.

The week was rounded off on Friday with a special assembly.