PUPILS showed off their artistic skills after their school was awarded for it's excellence in art.

Waltham Holy Cross Infant school in Waltham Abbey was presented an Artsmark Gold award by the Arts Council for England for their commitment to providing a high standard of education in the subject.

Teacher Sally Hutchings, subject leader of art at the school said: "We are delighted that the Arts Council has recognised the school's dynamic arts education programme and I would like to thank all the staff for their hard work in achieving this award."

A special event was held for the children to celebrate the achievement and they took part in various art activities throughout the week.

Alan Davey, Chief Executive of the Arts Council for England said: "We believe that the earlier children are creatively inspired, the more likely they are to have a lifelong engagement with art.

"The award recognises Waltham Holy Cross Infant's passion for the arts and belief in the power of creativity."