These fluffy ducklings are proof that spring has now well and truly arrived.
They hatched in incubators at Highlands Primary School, with youngsters guessing which birds could be inside the eggs.
The school, in Highlands Gardens, Ilford, usually has chicks, but decided on the 13 ducklings this year.
Vanessa Patel, head of reception, said: “We chose to use ducklings this year as we wanted something less predictable for the children to experience coming out of the eggs.
“The ducklings also seem to like to be handled more than the chicks and their feet are more gentle on the children’s hands.”
Having the ducklings in the school’s three reception classes has been a treat for the youngsters.
Ms Patel said: “The ducklings have provided an excellent opportunity for the children to gain a real-life understanding of growth, development and change.
“It has been significant in generating questions and providing a stimulus for learning through play.
“The children have been really excited and engaged.”
The ducklings will go to a farm when they leave the school.
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