Future astronauts given training

Piers Sellers was repairing the International Space Station

Teenagers have been given a chance to follow in the footsteps of astronaut and former Kent pupil, Piers Sellers.

"Space schools" were being held at the University of Kent at Canterbury this weekend and next weekend for youngsters aged between 13 and 18 years old.

Students design and launch their own rockets during the weekend, to encourage them to become "one of tomorrow's space professionals".

Sussex-born Mr Sellers spent 13 days in space in July on the shuttle Discovery.

The School of Physical Sciences said the young people would gain an introduction to astrophysics, planetary exploration and space technology.

Science is seen as a bit nerdish - these events can show is that it's not Steve Walls, technician

Technician Steve Walls said: "It tends to be a problem getting children interested in science and engineering in general.

"In higher education, we have a much lower uptake of science and engineering courses in this country than anywhere else in Europe.

"It is critical that we do interest children in what is, after all, the future of the country."

He said: "Science is seen as a bit nerdish - something for anoraks. What these events can show is that it's not.

"It's something that everybody can participate in and everyone can have a future in."

The two space schools were being held on August 5-6 and August 12-13.