A JUNIOR school has been rewarded for its commitment to arts education.

Pupils at Hawes Down spend a minimum of 10 per cent of their time learning about the arts so the junior school has been given the Artsmark bronze award.

Their education includes having artists and writers visiting the school in The Mead, West Wickham.

Arts Council England runs the Artsmark scheme to get children engaged with art at an early age.

Hawes Down Junior’s head teacher Matt Defreitas said: “I’m delighted that the Arts Council has recognised Hawes Down Junior School’s dynamic arts education programme.

“Our students have really enjoyed working with a variety of writers and artists and I’d like to thank all our staff for their hard work in achieving this award.”