Students from schools across Oxfordshire spent part of their summer holidays programming a space robot and researching how to combat climate change.

The GCSE and A-Level students were on work experience at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory at Chilton, near Didcot.

Three teams helped to programme a prototype ‘rover’ to help primary and secondary school children learn more about science, computer programming and technology.

Jessica Heath, of King Alfred’s School, Wantage, said: “It has definitely made me consider a career in space science as I would love to have the knowledge of some of the top scientists here.”

One of the placement supervisors, space scientist Brian Maddison, said: “One of the key things we want to do is to motivate and generate interest in science and engineering for the next generation.

“Science and technology bring huge benefits to our society and economy. In a recession, this message is more important that ever. Young people not only want to find a job or a place at university, they want to learn new skills and be inspired into career choices — this is a step in that direction.”

Jo Lewis, of Rutherford, said: “By working in groups made up of students from different schools and parts of the country, they learn key project management, communication and teamwork skills.

“Having this kind of work experience on their CV can give someone the edge.”