Getting to the heart of the human body is the task for children at Chilton Primary in Ramsgate.

The Year 6 group is exploring the role of the heart and lungs, blood vessels and blood within the circulatory system.

They have already completed a range of engaging activities including inspecting a lamb’s heart that gave them an in depth understanding of its various parts and their function.

They have also conducted experiments using household objects and materials to create ‘blood’ and discuss its components and what they are for.

In the coming weeks pupils will also investigate the impact that various lifestyle choices can have on the human body and how it functions. One of these lifestyle choices is diet. Children will then be preparing a healthy snack for their families, learning about which foods are in season and how to safely prepare them.

They will also consider ethical questions such as should the NHS pay for healthcare for people who are ill due to bad lifestyle choices.

Reading text Pig Heart Boy by Malorie Blackman will generate further discussion, while consideration will be given to impact of diet, exercise, drugs and lifestyle on the way bodies function.

How scientific methods have evolved over time and the discoveries of Doctor William Harvey and Donald Palmer within the context of evaluating how the heart works will also form part of the topic work.

Deputy Head of School Hannah Cheshire said: “Year 6 are really engaged with this topic – they are curious and are enjoying finding out just what makes their bodies work.”

Chilton Primary is part of the Viking Academy Trust with partner schools Ramsgate Arts Primary and Upton Junior.

*For more information contact Head of School Alex McAuley on 01843 597695.