PEERING at the work of a world-famous artist, pupils realised they were in prestigious company at their school art exhibition.

Girls at Headington Preparatory School had the privilege of exhibiting their own work alongside an original piece by Henry Moore.

A sketch by the late English artist, acclaimed for his bronze sculptures, was brought into the school along with an original by painting impressionist Camille Pissarro.

The artwork was part of an exhibition on Wednesday night, featuring pieces created by Year 6 girls and staged in association with the Aiden Meller Gallery in Oxford.

Mr Meller brought along the special paintings and judged a competition for the best student work, rewarding a certificate and silver cup.

Rebecca Klico, head of art at the prep school, said: “Working with Aiden Meller helps to inspire the girls to create artwork to a high standard, in the belief that one day some of them may become artists in their own right.

“This is our ‘year of STEAM’, promoting the importance of ambition within science, technology, engineering, art and maths.

“Aiden Meller was really impressed with the quality of the girls’ work.”