A GROUP of schoolchildren swapped their ABCs for a walk by the sea as part of an educational activity day.

The seven and eight-year-olds from West Rise Junior School in Eastbourne were treated to the day at Seven Sisters Country Park on Tuesday, September 23.

The day, hosted by the Sussex Wildlife Trust and funded by a donation from South East Water’s Community Chest initiative, enabled 60 children to enjoy the charity’s Down to the Coast and Back tour.

Youngsters discovered how chalk and beaches are formed while enjoying activities such as scavenger hunts, pebble sorting and stone rubbing.

Ronnie Reed, Sussex Wildlife Trust People and Wildlife Officer, based at Seven Sisters Country Park, said: “When we teach children about the natural world there is no substitute for ‘close encounters of the real kind’ involving lots of hands-on learning. South East Water has provided a superb opportunity for these children to step out of their classroom to learn about their subject at first hand – and this experience will stay with them for a long time as something special.”

Emily de Mattos and Helen Pentecost, year three teachers at West Rise Junior School, attended the trip.

Mrs Pentecost said: “We had a wonderful day at the Seven Sisters Country Park and we are extremely grateful to both organisations for making it possible.

“We are sure it is a trip the children will not forget.”