Classrooms were turned into forests and pupils roamed the roof at Petchey Academy as part of a project opening up Shakespeare’s The Tempest.

The school collaborated with Punchdrunk theatre company to create Prospero’s Island, which invited children to bring the play to life by exploring the immersive world created in the school.

The installation was thought to be the first of its kind in the country.

Peter Higgin, enrichment director at Punchdrunk, said: “We hope the project will compel pupils to engage with the text, rewarding them with theatrical experience. We believe the project will have a palpable impact on pupil attainment, their attitude towards Shakespeare.”

Councillor Anntoinette Bramble, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services at Hackney Council, said: “We’re thrilled to be working with Punchdrunk, who have a reputation for creating some of the most exciting theatre showing today. I’m sure this will be an unforgettable experience for the pupils of Petchey Academy and that it will bring Shakespeare to life for all those involved.”