A ‘FOR SALE’ sign has been put up at a York school - but all is not as it appears.

The sign was put up at Lord Deramore’s School this week as part of a project for Year 6 students, who are studying newspaper writing.

Teacher Helen Smith said she wanted to “capture the children’s imagination and engage them and in a project which was relevant and would generate lively discussions”, so contacted estate agency Hudson Moody who provided the sign.

She said: “Hudson Moody arrived and carried out necessities such as measuring classrooms, taking photos and erecting the for sale board whilst children continued with their studies - unaware of events to come.

“Superb brochures have been professionally produced by Hudson Moody showcasing this ‘wonderful and rare opportunity to purchase the school and land’.”

Ms Smith said the children would write their own story about the sale. “interviewing people and writing the newspaper reports accordingly”, with speculation including “head teacher, Mr Rourke, may have spent all the money or be hoping to sell the land to the university for more of their buildings”.

Tarnia Hudson, from Hudson Moody, said: "We are thrilled to have been able to help the school with their project.

"Having been a primary school teacher myself, it’s wonderful to see how engaged and passionate the children are about the possibility that their school may be being sold. It’s been great fun and we hope it’s inspired the children to create some fantastic work."