YOUNGSTERS from Shenfield High School are flying high after getting through to the finals of the UK Aerospace Youth Rocketry Challenge.

The pupils had to design and build a rocket which would carry two eggs to an altitude of 850 ft before returning them safely to the ground.

Both teams from Shenfield beat more than 185 other students to win a place in the national finals, which will take place in July at the Farnborough International Airshow.

If they win they will go on to represent the UK at the international finals, competing against students from the USA, Japan and France.

Paul Everitt, Chief Executive of ADS Group said:

“Congratulations to Shenfield High School, I wish them all the very best at the national final.

"The UK Aerospace Youth Rocketry Challenge gives the next generation of engineers an opportunity to understand complex challenges overcome by engineers working in our industries.

"There is a range of exciting, high-skill and well-paid career opportunities within aerospace and space for young people with strong maths and science qualifications.

"This competition is a great way for young people to engage creatively with these subjects.”

Claire Helim, STEM Coordinator at the school, added: “We are thrilled to get two teams through to the national finals, it has been great fun along the way.

"It’s been a brilliant way to apply maths and science lessons away from the classroom, challenging the students’ capabilities.”