'Go4SET', a national scheme run by the EDT (Engineering Development Trust) links teams of students in Years 8 and 9 with companies and universities to offer a 10 week Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) experience.

By providing a real STEM project, Go4SET aims to raise awareness and highlight the exciting future career opportunities available in STEM subjects.

Working with Science Teacher, Mr Milton Year 9 students, Bethany L, Megann G, Christian F, Robyn W, Hannah W and Abbie S formed a team to take on the Go4SET project.

The enthusiastic team, pictured here, were mentored by an engineer from global healthcare company, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK). The challenge began in February with a launch event at GSK offices in Barnard Castle in which students took part in a Dragon's Den style competition to develop an innovative idea with a healthy school theme.

Over a 10 week period the team developed their idea of a vertical farm to maximise the space for growing crops in harmony with modern architecture. They then presented their plans and working prototype at a celebration event at Newcastle University to a panel of experts from universities and industry. The team received excellent comments from the judges and were runners up for the most innovative project.

Mr Milton said, "This has been an enjoyable experience for everyone. Working with the King James team has been a pleasure; they took all of the challenges onboard and it has certainly benefitted them in terms of confidence and collaboration skills."

Team Captain, Abbie said, "I enjoyed the project as it allowed me to do something completely different."

Hannah, who was in charge of the team's finance said, "I mostly enjoyed being able to work as part of a team; it was brilliant to see the project all coming together towards the end."