A SCHOOL in Southend is encouraging its pupils to learn the value of money early by promoting their own fairground ride.

Pupils from all years at Earls Hall Primary School in Carlton Road, Westcliff were tasked with creating their own special attraction for the price of £15, and to promote their creations throughout using the power of advertising.

The young entrepreneurs were briefed by Adventure Island’s Captain Rage in the morning and were each given £2.50 to enjoy their fellow pupils’ stalls, games or attractions.

Headteacher, Matt Badcock says the day was a great success and the children learned some valuable lessons due to the initiative.

He said: “We do this every year at Earls Hall, it shows the children the value of money which today through contactless payments, means they may not even see cash change hands. The day also shows how the children can be influenced by advertising.”

More fun and games were available such as a penalty shoot-out and throwing a wet sponge at visitors in the stocks, but at 50p a stall, they had to pick wisely.

Fifteen per cent of the profits from the day were donated to Water Aid, a charity selected by this year’s school council.