It is the land of Tolstoy and Dostoyevsky, famed for having one of the largest cities in the world and sending the first man into space.

Ipswich Star: Pupils at Elmsett Primary School took part in a Russian day as part of the Star World Cup Draw.Pupils at Elmsett Primary School took part in a Russian day as part of the Star World Cup Draw. (Image: Archant)

And the Russian national team’s short stay at the World Cup has allowed youngsters at one Suffolk school to learn more about the country, through the Ipswich Star’s World Cup Challenge.

After drawing Russia in the initiative, Elmsett Primary School held a day dedicated to the nation last week, during which they found out more about its culture.

Among the activities the youngsters took part in were cooking Russian food, making Fabergé eggs, taking part in Russian dancing and writing their names in Russian.

Sarah Laflin, the school’s administrator, said: “We did a lot of different activities that related to Russia to help the children find out about it in a fun way. They all had a really good day, it was a nice atmosphere, and hopefully they know more about Russia.”

The Star’s challenge has seen 26 primary schools in Ipswich paired with nations competing at the 2014 World Cup. Each school has been encouraged to find out more about their adopted countries through themed lessons.