A GROUP of teachers from Wiltshire have jetted off to Lord Of The Rings country to take a look at how children are taught on the other side of the world.

They set out for Nelson on South Island, New Zealand, on Saturday for a chance to evaluate the country's creative approach to learning during their 13-day trip.

The exchange has been organised by the British Council and funded through the Department for Education and Skills' teacher development programme.

Caroline Barlow, from Staverton Primary School, was amazed when she found out the destination. "When I applied to take part in the scheme I had no idea that I would eventually be travelling to a country as exciting as New Zealand," she said.

"I was stunned and amazed. We will be looking at creativity and it will be very interesting to see how teachers in New Zealand encourage this among their pupils. I am hoping we will be able to develop links between my school and those we visit.

"I am taking artwork by pupils from my school and photographs of school projects to show children and teachers in New Zealand what education is like in Wiltshire."

Lesley Anstey, of Cherhill Primary School, and Vicki Bevean, from Lyneham Junior School, are also in the party.