Five 15-year-old students from Carterton Community College have spent a week on the beat with Thames Valley Police as part of the college's work experience programme.

Nichola Kennard, Simon Dishman, Zoe Walker, Michael Blythe and Maria Foulks are all considering a career with the police or within the criminal justice system.

During the week, which was the first of its kind in the region, the students visited a number of police departments, were given a presentation by a solicitor and spent a day at Oxford Crown Court.

They also spent time with the crew of the force's helicopter at RAF Benson and in the control room at the force headquarters at Kidlington.

The group also took part in a 25-mile bike ride that tested their fitness, map reading skills, leadership and ability to work as a team.

The project was led by Pc Bill Oddy, the town's schools and youth involvement officer.

Pc Oddy said: "A number of students had approached me regarding a career with the police. Safety legislation has made it difficult to find suitable posts for students in the past.

"This week enabled the group to see behind the scenes of the Thames Valley Police and to speak with operational police officers and staff. Many of the group have the potential to be police officers of the future."