SCHOOLCHILDREN are preparing for the Paralympic Games next year by taking part in games and activities to celebrate the forthcoming event.

Children at Joseph Clarke School for the Visually Impaired, in Highams Park, are completing two days of sport today and are being filmed live by the BBC.

Paralympic gold medallist Ellie Simmonds, who won two gold medals at the Beijing Games in 2008, will appear for the live show.

“It is a real chance to get the children involved with the games thatare taking place almost on their doorstep,” said head teacher Peter Falconbridge.

“We hope it will get everyone excited about the Paralympics and show children what they can achieve.”

Around 15 children will take part in the events, which include the standing long jump, for around two hours after spending Friday taking part in similar activities.