CELEBRITY chef Michael Caines paid a visit to Okehampton College last Friday, as part of a special day of 'extended learning' for students.

Michael Caines and a chef from Gidleigh Park worked with year 8 students during a cookery lesson, sharing some tricks of the trade with youngsters throughout the morning.

All students in the school got a chance to take part in the extended learning day in their own way, trying their hand at new skills and thinking about the future.

Year 11 students worked in the college's Octagon Theatre with Cragrats, a group that offers highly interactive, thought-provoking workshops with customised learning programmes that cover a range of subjects. Their focus for the day was careers and post-16 options.

Year 9 students were involved in lessons on E-Safety, learning how to be safe on the internet, including safe use of social media websites like Facebook and Twitter, identity theft and financial scams.

Year 7 students had a day of theological questions during their 'Beliefs and Values' day, addressing questions on why faith and beliefs are so important to people.

They took part in workshops on spirituality, and heard accounts from visitors who had travelled the world and worked for a number of charities.

Year 8 students developed practical skills and learnt about possible careers in the fields of science and technology.

They enjoyed a range of hands on activities including thread cutting, wood joining, computer aided design and cooking.

Assistant principal Jean Harris said: 'We have a full programme of things planned for all students, and we think it is an exciting thing for students to get involved with.'

Head of history and extended learning days leader Andrew Sweeney said: 'The day was busy for everyone at the college, and overall it was a great success. The next extended learning day will be in June.'

The college's PTFA have also been busy organising a quiz night and car boot sale to raise additional funds for the school.

Doors to the college's Octagon Theatre open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start on Friday, March 15 for the quiz night. Teams of four can enter for £10 per team, and are allowed to bring their own refreshments.

The PTFA's car boot sale takes place on Saturday March 23 in the college's car park. Cars will be permitted from 9am at a cost of £5 each.

Sellers can open their car boots to sell goods from 10am to noon.