PUPILS have swapped the playground for the Presidential podium during lockdown - producing their very own inaugural speeches.

Year Six pupils from Dalton St Mary's C of E Primary School are remaking history by writing their own Presidential speeches certain to captivate their audience.

The class has been following current affairs at school and teacher Lisa Woodburn thought it was important to teach pupils the importance of Inauguration Day.

She said: "I'm a big believer in ensuring our children are up to date with current affairs. Especially in Year Five and Six.

"As I watched the Inauguration day unfold, I was overcome by emotion as we were watching history being made.

"The first black, Indian female, Vice President of the United States.

"I wanted the children to be aware of this huge moment. I had presumed the children had seen the attack on the Capitol and I have been trying hard to share positive news stories with the children.

"We discussed the importance of becoming a leader, connecting with your audience and being a positive role model.

"With this in mind, I challenged the children to write their own speeches and focus on what they would change to promote a better society, community and world."

"I wanted children to see that democracy was important and that we are lucky to have the freedom of speech (providing it's used wisely) in our country.

"Also, I wanted the children to acknowledge the change in power to President Joe Biden.

"We also talked about how Vice President Kamala Harris and her roots/upbringing meant that she can engage with and appeal to many American people.

"I always think it is important to encourage children to visualise their goal/dream and to stay determined and not give up.

"Something which I think Joe Biden and Kamala Harris represent."