PUPILS from Kingdown School have been selected for the finals of the BP Ultimate STEM Challenge at the Science Museum in London on Monday, March 13.

The national competition, launched in September 2016 by BP, STEM Learning and the Science Museum, challenges UK students aged 11-14 to put their science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) skills to the test by tackling real-world energy problems.

Schools from all over the country took part in the competition for a chance to win an Ultimate STEM experience day and £500 for their school and the Warminster school is one step closer to winning the prize.

Rachel Bala, science teacher at Kingdown, said: “I am delighted that Anna, May, Charlotte and Poppy have reached the finals - it is an impressive achievement, and reflects their hard work and commitment to their project.

“I run a weekly science club for gifted and talented pupils in the school, and achieving something like this raises the profile of STEM subjects for students at the school.”

This year pupils were invited to use their creativity to design an energy efficient solution to one of three real-world challenges including rescue rockets, future flight or auto arms.

Pupil Anna Kline said: “I really enjoy science and I had a lot of fun on this project as it allowed me to challenge myself and learn new skills.

“My favourite thing about taking part in the Ultimate STEM Challenge has been being able to put my own spin on a project and having more freedom to create our investigations independently.”

The six finalist teams will be presenting their work to an expert judging panel at the Science Museum on March 13 during British Science Week.

Samantha Bulkeley, UK schools education manager at BP, who sat on the judging panel, said: “I would like to congratulate all of the teams for getting through to the finals. We saw some fantastic projects this year."