Teenage students gave up their half-term break to attend hands-on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) sessions.
Seven students from Sir John Leman High School and Pakefield High School visited Lowestoft College this week as part of the STEM School programme.
The initiative offered the teenagers the chance to explore more about subjects as part of a wider STEM Accelerator Project, managed by Suffolk County Council with University Campus Suffolk, and Connect Education and Business.
Organisers of the 30-hour free project were keen to emphasise their aim to inspire the pupils, who took part in a number of practical sessions including welding and manufacturing, electrical engineering and computer game development.
Lauren Headland, STEM project co-ordinator said: 'The Suffolk wide programme aims to inspire young people aged between 14 and 18 who have an interest or ability in stem subjects.
'One of the grand aims of the project is to start bridging the skills gap- there is a huge diversity of jobs available so it is important for students to know what is out there.'
Alan Wagner, head of engineering at Lowestoft College was 'encouraged' by the number of students taking part, but hoped more people would register their interest in the next session- which will take place in the February half term.
'It's encouraging to see the students are prepared to give up their time to further their opportunities moving forward,' he said.
Will Evans, 15, from Sir John Leman High School said: 'Personally I have found it very applicable to life and I have built up skills that I can use in the workplace in future years.
'Even if I don't go into engineering, just having the ability and knowledge will be really useful.'
Ciara Betts-Layzell, 15, from Sir John Leman High School added: 'It's been interesting and very practical and hands on.
'It has been worth giving up my half term break for.'
For more information visit www.ucs.ac.uk/STEMsuffolk
Are you organising an event for young people in Lowestoft? Email joe.randlesome@archant.co.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here