Children in South Oxhey made an unusual half-term trip to school on Friday to try their hands at a wide range of new skills.

The youngsters, accompanied by their mums, dads, and even grandparents, were attending the inaugural South Oxhey Family Learning Festival, held at Oxhey Wood School.

Organised by the Community Learning Partnership (CLP), the event, held at Oxhey Wood School, is part of a national campaign to improve social and academic skills, and boost confidence.

More than 400 visitors young and old tried their hands at a variety of new skills, including music, art, and kick-boxing. Representatives from many other community groups also attended, offering information including about adult education, health, and relationships.

Elizabeth Borg, from the CLP, explained: “The event is simply about trying something new in a family environment. It’s a chance for children and adults to learn new skills and through that improve their confidence and self-esteem.

“The response has been fantastic – we can’t believe how many people have turned up. It’s been more successful than we could have hoped.”

Inside the school rock stars of the future got to grips with electric guitars, drums, and keyboards under the tutelage of the Hertfordshire School of rock, a company that visits schools and introduces children to live music.

Neil Harris, struggling to make himself heard above the inevitable din, explained: “Some of theses kids find out that they have a natural talent for music. But most of them would never get to go near a guitar or a drum kit without their parents having to hell out loads of money for it. Then they might get give it up after a week. We give them a chance to pick up an instrument and see if it suits them.”

Art teacher Paula Watkins had more visitors to her workshop than she had space for. Speaking amid a veritable forest of card, paper, glitter and glue she explained how and why so many youngsters remained interested in art.

She said: “People think that modern children are only interested in computer games but that just isn’t true at all. All children are naturally creative and love creating art. I’ve been really impressed with their standard of work and enthusiasm.”

Mrs Borg said, funding permitting, the event will return next year.