Rossall wizards head to Hogwarts

On Sunday, 30 Harry Potter fanatics from Rossall School travelled to Watford to visit The Making of Harry Potter at the Warner Bros Studios.

Upon arrival, the students split themselves into smaller groups and embarked on the self-guided tour.

17-year-old Lennart Breier jumped at the chance to volunteer to be one of two people to open the doors to the Great Hall and begin the experience.

Mouths fell open in shock as the students and staff were transported into the actual sets of the beloved films.

‘It was like a dream come true,’ said 12-year-old super fan Jessica Sanderson. ‘I have loved Harry Potter since reading the first book. It didn't really sink in that we were looking at the actual sets and props that they used in the film. What you see on the screen is right in front of your eyes!’

The students slowly made their way around the huge studios, stopping off halfway for a refreshing ‘Butterbeer’ beverage.

‘It was one of the nicest drinks I've ever tasted!’ said 13-year-old Grace Evans. ‘After reading J K Rowling's descriptions in the book, and seeing it on screen, I couldn't wait to try it. It was better than I imagined.’

The students had a marvellous time immersing themselves in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, complete with a ride on broomstick, flying over the streets of London – with the help of a green screen, of course.

‘It was really bizarre to find out how they created the special effects.’ said 13-year-old Alicia Anandappa. ‘You really don't think about it when you are watching the films, as it looks so real!’

The tour concluded with a thorough visit to the gift shop, before the students boarded their coach once again for the lengthy journey back to Rossall School.

‘My favourite part was when we saw the Hogwarts Castle at the end. It was huge and you could see the attention to detail like the paintings through the windows and the thousands and thousands of roof tiles.’ Jessica said. ‘The trip was absolutely amazing and the memories made will last a lifetime.’