SCHOOLCHILDREN in Bridgwater gave up their Easter holidays to enjoy a taste of university life and learn about the nuclear energy industry.

A group of 50 year nine pupils from Robert Blake Science Community College, East Bridgwater Community School, Chilton Trinity Technology College, Haygrove School, Elmwood School and Penrose School went on a residential course at the University of Exeter, run by EDF Energy.

The programme is part of the nuclear energy firm’s strategy to educate young people about the industry.

Students took part in various engineering and nuclear-related challenges and also enjoyed team-building activities, a sports night and gala disco and dinner.

David Eccles, head of EDF’s Bridgwater office, said: “The students have all done incredibly well and should be proud of their achievements.

“The last few days were intense but they are clearly keen to learn and understand more about nuclear and the potential opportunities in the industry.”

Robert Blake pupil Josh, aged 13, is now considering a career in engineering. He said: “I really enjoyed the practical side of our tasks. To come up with an idea and then work together to create a real-life working device is really fun.”