GIRLS from across the country enjoyed an insight into the military when they spent a week experiencing science and engineering trades at RAF Leeming.

The five day residential course was designed to give the 15 and 16-year-olds a taste of RAF life and teamwork and provide hands-on experience of the breadth of science and engineering careers available.

Working in teams of ten, students were asked to design, budget for and build a radar tower out of rods they manufactured using innovative “Stixx” machines.

And, combined with a written portfolio their work, the projects earned prestigious Silver Crest Awards from the British Science Association.

The awards were presented by Air Vice Marshal Sue Gray, Air Officer Commanding 38 Group and the most senior engineer in the Royal Air Force.

“This week has been awesome,” she said.

“The girls have been very bright and engaged. I think it has worked well because they have really come out of themselves and been great team workers.”