YOUNGSTERS took some time out from the classroom and put their flexibility to the test.

Pupils at Friars primary School, in Constable Way, Shoebury, which is part of the Portico Academy Trust, got to take part in a programme run by the Southend Diving at Garons.

It is part of the Talent Identification (TID) scheme, which sees qualified instructors work with children in the school sports hall.

Gary Telling, PE coordinator, said: “We had Southend diving team in the school to assess the children from Year 2, 3 and 4. The children worked very hard and enjoyed the experience and we have had some positive feedback from the coaches. They were tested on their flexibility, strength and how high they could jump. Successful candidates will be invited to take part in the second phase of the programme at Garon Park, where they will be put through their paces using the dry land facilities using the state of the art dry gym.”