THE appropriately named Golden Eagles Juniors from Whitesheet Primary Academy in Zeals, near Warminster, spent the day at the Roman Baths in Bath recently.

Their teacher, Mel Vincent, who organised the popular trip said: "Roman Britain is part of our history curriculum - so a day at this fantastic facility was an absolute must.

The class's name is significant as the Roman legions which first used the Baths marched following a golden eagle standard. Once there, the children enjoyed three exciting activities. One was looking at the artefacts, most of which dated back to when the Baths were in use. This included an examination of the Roman building materials used as well as how the Baths were built.

Each child then tried writing their name in Latin and date of birth in Roman numerals, before trying on togas and tunics and enjoying some role playing.

This was followed by the highlight of the day - the tour of the Baths themselves. Equipped with an audio guide linked to educational features and points of interest for children, they set out to thoroughly explore and understand Roman culture and the society of the men and women who used the magnificent baths.

"A great day was had by all," said an exhausted but happy Mrs Vincent. "The children learned so much and were wonderfully behaved - a real credit to the school. Even the organisers passed comment - praise indeed."