STUDENTS from St Peter's School in Exeter, Uffculme School and the King's School in Ottery St Mary were among those who enjoyed a week's work experience at the Met Office.
The Exeter weather forecasting centre hosted 45 students from across the country. The lucky participants were selected from more than 155 applicants.
They spent half the week working with volunteer host managers across the Met Office's various departments.
Around half the students, aged 14 to 17, came from the South West, with Okehampton College, Kingsbridge Community College and Wells Cathedral School also among those represented.
Working in teams, the students undertook a set activity on one of four topics: STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), Met Office – more than just forecasting the weather, Weather Apps or Social Media. At the end of the week they presented their findings to a large audience.
Other activities included an induction morning, a creative session with the Innovation Academy, experiments, presenting the weather and a presentation from a STEM ambassador on Facility for Airborne Atmospheric Measurements research aircraft.
As well as offering an insight into a world leading organisation, the Met Office work experience programme is designed to inspire students at an age when they are making key decisions about their future. The week also helps develop their self confidence, team work and communication as well as practical skills to assist in preparing for the world of work, such as time keeping.
At the end of a challenging week the students left with a certificate, memorabilia and further career information. It is hoped some of them will return to the Met Office as summer placement students in future.
