Popular children's television show films at school

Alfreton Park School pupil Ellie (centre) filmed with CBeebies presenters George Webster (left) and Justin Fletcher (right)

An episode of a popular children's television show has been filmed in Derbyshire.

The BBC CBeebies show Something Special was shot at Alfreton Park School - a community school for pupils with special needs - in August and it will air on Monday morning.

The star of the show Justin Fletcher, also known at Mr Tumble, and CBeebies presenter George Webster were there for the filming.

Head teacher Josie O'Donnell said it was the "most magical experience" for the students and staff involved.

Filming took place outside in the school's horticultural area

Something Special uses Makaton sign language, and promotes inclusivity.

Ms O'Donnell said pupils Lewis, aged 16, a Mr Tumble superfan, and 12-year-old Ellie, were selected to take part after a casting session at the school in May.

The episode is garden-themed, called Pick Your Own, and the first day was filmed outside in the school's horticultural area, and on the second day shooting took place at Lea Green Outdoor Activities Centre, in Matlock, said the head teacher.

She added the highlights for the students included seeing Mr Tumble's spotty bag, being able to honk his nose, and "just being in his presence was the most magical part".

Assistant head teacher Clare Charlesworth (left) said the filming day was a lot of fun

Ms O'Donnell said they had activities planned on Monday to mark the show being aired.

"We are holding screenings of it throughout the day and doing activities based around communication, with a growing theme, to keep in with the episode theme.

"We have an annual Makaton every day every year where we focus in on communication activities. We have brought that forward - that will take place on Monday."

Clare Charlesworth, assistant head teacher, who was there on the filming days, said: "There were lots of takes, and it was lots of fun.

"We were treated so well by all the crew.

Justin was so kind with the children. They gave us so much time."

She says they are "so excited" to watch the episode, adding "it'll be amazing for the children".