FEMALE students have been able to explore their scientific curiosity and create their own robots.

The pupils from Hartlepool's Manor Community Academy and Dyke House schools headed to Harrogate to build droids and a nuclear power station as part of EDF Energy’s Pretty Curious programme, which aims to inspire girls to think about pursuing a career in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths.

They got the chance to create their very own droid and also got the opportunity to learn more about smart technology in the home, artificial intelligence and learn how to ‘build a reactor’ using Virtual Reality.

Paul Moffat, vice assistant principal Manor Community Academy: “This is a real opportunity for the pupils to meet young women professionals and chat about what they do in science and engineering careers.

"Having such role models is very important for pupils as they think about careers, and girls need them as often families don’t necessary see science and engineering as potential careers.”

Naomi Salmons, 12, a pupil at Manor School, said: “I loved using the Virtual Reality kits, it seemed like you were in the actual place. We also built some droids using little bits of electronic kits and we then ran them on the floor using mobile phones. It’s been great day.”