CHIPPENHAM NEWS: CHILDREN were taught the value of common courtesy during a theatrical performance at a Chippenham school.

As part of their personal, social, health and moral education and citizenship curriculum, pupils at Ivy Lane Primary School watched a production of Lead On McGruff on Wednesday which aimed to promote the importance of good manners.

Deputy headteacher Tracey Horan said: "McGruff is a dog who has his own detective agency. His secretary had bad manners but during the production he teaches her good manners.

"It was a fun way of getting across the message of good manners.

"It is usually something which you have to say over and over again, but the production helped get the message across to the whole school."

The Welsh-based theatre company gave two performances during the day and children were invited to take part.

Teacher Penny Hamilton said: "This punchy and innovative production is suitable for five to 11-year-olds and deals with the issues of good manners and common courtesy in a fun way.

"The importance and benefits of speaking clearly and confidently are explored, as is the necessity to listen to what others have to say."