GROOVY youngsters at a Spa school got down with the Brazilian beat as part of their annual arts week.

The children at Witton Middle School, in Old Coach Road, have been soaking up the sunshine sounds of Brazil, as well as experiencing the culture and arts of other South American countries.

"Our focus for the week has been upon South America. We have spent time looking at other countries for a wider understanding and appreciation of other people and places," said Wendy Pope, curriculum leader for religious studies.

The week included listening to samba music, creating works of art and strutting their stuff in dance workshops with, Nick and Karen Ledbury.

Harry Lake, aged ten, said: "The best bit was learning about the animals in the Rainforest as we didn't know much about them."

While Evan Whitfield, also aged ten, said: "Playing the instruments in the samba workshop was the best bit."

Twelve-year-old Sara Hunt said: "Making and eating South American food was the best bit as it gave me a chance to try new foods."

Curriculum leader for art and design, Marion Wilson, said: "The whole school came together at the end of the week to celebrate and share experiences. It has been so successful that we're already planning next year's event."