Children at a school in Dorchester were given a magical Matilda-themed surprise day out.

Youngsters at The Prince of Wales School, Dorchester, from Years Three and Four spent the day out with teachers on a fantastic Matilda-themed adventure.

Teachers even went the extra mile, dressing up as characters from the classic book.

Dorset Echo:

The day began at Dorchester Library where the children were met by characters from the Roald Dahl book in full costume. At the library, children heard an extract from the book and completed some Matilda-themed activities before then being told the news by Mrs Wormwood that they were going to the cinema.

Dorset Echo:

At the Plaza Cinema, Dorchester the children were among the first in the country to experience ‘Matilda the Musical’ a Netflix Original Film that was released nationwide on Friday, November 25.

Speaking about the experience, Year Three pupil Grace said, “We all thought we were going to school as normal this morning. It was a real surprise to end up at Dorchester Library instead.

"I was lost for words when I saw Mr Spracklen dressed as Miss Trunchball and Mrs Thorpe dressed as Mrs Wormwood. They were both very scary. I was so pleased to see that Miss Honey was there to protect us”.

Headteacher, Mr Gary Spracklen, who dressed as Miss Trunchball, said: “Roald Dahl’s Matilda is a book we have always enjoyed reading at The Prince of Wales School. Today’s surprise #InspiredToLearn Matilda experience has brought the book to life in the most engaging and inspiring way imaginable.”

Dorset Echo:

Year Four class teacher, Ms Cate Browne - who dressed as Miss Honey - said: “As well as being a good story to read, Dahl’s book gives an insight into the issues surrounding going to school and offers the opportunity for these issues to be discussed in a way that can teach you about your rights as a child. These rights apply to anyone under the age of 18 as is stated in Article 18 of The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC)”.