A group of students took part in work experience at Gatwick in a first for the airport.

Nearly 30 secondary school pupils from eight schools in Crawley were invited to the airport from July 8 until July 12 to learn more about career opportunities and essential workplace skills.

The 14 and 15-year-olds took part in a range of tasks throughout the week.

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This including learning communication skills, putting together group presentations and listening to panel discussions by employees from different areas across the airport.

They learnt about the airport and career opportunities available (Image: Gatwick Airport)

The students were also taken on behind-the-scenes tours of the airport including the airfield, fire station and the terminals where they were able to learn more about Gatwick's operations.

They were also told about the ways they can contribute to sustainability in future workplaces.

A spokesman for Gatwick said: "Sustainability is key at London Gatwick and the students also engaged in a biodiversity session which included a habitat talk and a seed bomb workshop."

Melanie Wrightson, stakeholder engagement manager at Gatwick, said: "We are thrilled to have offered local school children such a fantastic opportunity this week.

"It was clear to see how much the students enjoyed themselves and experienced the breadth of career opportunities at London Gatwick.

Colleagues at the airport held discussions with the students (Image: Gatwick Airport)

"The week itself was supported by more than 100 colleagues involved in the planning and hosting activities.

“Many activities took place in our STEM centre (science, technology, engineering, and maths), a bespoke, hands-on space to engage and teach school children across the region about STEM and aviation.

“A diverse and skilled pipeline of local talent is critical to a healthy labour market and London Gatwick’s future growth.

"It’s imperative we promote the opportunities the airport has to offer from a young age.

"This work experience week is just one of the many ways we are engaging with schools, which includes a regular flow of activities at our STEM centre and an extensive package of career-related support and outreach in local schools.”