Pupils at St Francis School in Pewsey are getting a taste of self-sufficiency which captivated the nation in the ’70s sit-com The Good Life with the arrival of six chickens.

The idea came from the pupil-led eco committee and the birds will be the responsibility of the pupils.

They have named the chickens Brownie, Chocolate, Zara, Patterns, Snowy and Whitey. The chickens even laid enough eggs for home-made Scotch eggs to be put on the lunch menu one week.

The children are being taught to look after the hens by the school’s caretaker, and retired farmer, Clive Hibberd who has also involved the pupils in lambing this year.

Headteacher David Sibson said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for our pupils to extend their learning and understanding beyond the classroom.

“The pupils on the eco-committee deserve praise, not only for an excellent idea, but also for seeing it through.”

The school is hoping to add to its livestock in the future.