Merchants Academy in Withywood kicks off this year's school open evenings season with a fun-filled, hands-on event.

It takes place on Wednesday from 5 to 8pm, and is aimed at Year 6 children and their families.

Nick Short, Merchants' Academy director of Year 7, said: "We are really looking forward to showcasing not only the great facilities we have here, but also the high standard of teaching and the caring, supportive environment we have created since our opening last September.

"We have structured the evening so that it is extremely interactive, with workshops in the technology and science departments for everyone to get involved in.

"We are hoping that many prospective parents and students from across the south Bristol area will come along."

Principal Stephen Kings will be sharing the academy's vision and ethos with parents and will be on hand to answer any questions.

Mr Kings said: "In our first year we have worked hard to develop relationships with our local primary schools.

"We are hoping to welcome many of the parents and students back to hear a little more about the great offering we have here at Merchants' Academy."

The academy cost £29 million to build and can accommodate 1,150 students.

It has seven separate pavilions built around a courtyard and plenty of internal and external open space.

An additional open morning for those that cannot attend on Wednesday will be held on Saturday, from 10am to noon.