A STAR of Saturday night television returned to his old school to recall how he got the drama bug after taking part in its nativity play.

Jack Donnelly, who plays the role of Jason in BBC1’s prime time drama Atlantis, is an ex-pupil of St Catherine’s RC Primary School in Colehill.

He returned to answer questions from current pupils and tell them about life as an actor.

Head teacher Win Sheldon said he had faced a long list of questions which pupils had planned with the help of deputy head Alex Harris.

“They put together a selection of very broad-ranging questions, asking about his experience, how he went through the audition process, and what skills he had to have,” she said.

The star went from St Catherine’s to St Peter’s in Bournemouth where he developed his love of acting.

“He gave really detailed, comprehensive information about his experience and how he developed a love of drama when he was here and remembered taking part in the nativity play, and how that followed on when he went to St Peter’s,” said Mrs Sheldon.

Teaching assistant Mary Wickens is the mother of one of Jack’s oldest friends, Oliver.

“He was a close friend of her eldest son and they’ve remained in contact and still see each other out of work,” said Mrs Sheldon.

She said everyone had been impressed by the star.

“He came over as a charming young man.

“He was ready and very willing to share his experiences in a really informative way.”

  • Atlantis continues on BBC One on Saturday.