Romany culture and history were explored by a group of youngsters during a workshop with a difference at Wanstead High School.

Year eight pupils at the school, in Redbridge Lane West were treated to a special performance of 'O Patrin' - a play focusing on gypsy identity.

The drama, which was performed by the Romany Theatre Company also highlighted aspects of other cultures from across the globe, including the Maoris, Australian Aborigines, and North American Indians.

Tracey Phillipson, the school's arts co-ordinator, said the event was an important experience for the youngster's involved.

She said: "Issues such as our reverence for or dismissal of the past, discrimination, and conflict were explored through various cultural heritages.

"The students engaged with and made fantastic contributions to the workshop exercises and showed themselves to be confident, thoughtful and considerate young people."

For more information about the play - which is being performed by the company at schools across London - call Gabrielle on: 8368 1592 or email: info@polygonarts.org.uk