A Turner Prize winning artist and Oscar winning filmmaker invited primary pupils to be part of a huge portrait featuring children from schools across London.

A total of 90 children from Hillyfield Primary Academy are set to be part of the epic portrait of over 70,000 children.

Working with Tate Britain, artist Steve McQueen has invited Year 3 pupils in London to be part of traditional class photos, which will then be brought together into a single installation featuring tens of thousands.

Artist in residence at Hillyfield, Christian Griffin, said: “I spent two weeks working with the pupils on identity and who they are.

“The idea of the project is that children at that age are at a key stage in their development; they are yet to form concrete views on the world around them. That is what Steve McQueen is exploring in this artwork.

“A good piece of artwork should not give you the answer, it should ask a question. This is getting us thinking about the next generation, what they are inheriting and what they are going to be.

“It is of historic importance. I think in 30 or 40 years’ time, the gallery will hang this piece of work again.

“I am really proud of our students. It is a life-changing, creative experience. Most people do not get to have their portrait hung in the Tate. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

The exhibition is scheduled to be on display at the Duveen Galleries within Tate Britain between November 11 and May 4. The children’s portraits will also be featured on billboards around London to promote the exhibition.