THREE scientists in the making at Bradon Forest School in Purton have won a regional competition for their futuristic idea on how solve an energy crisis.

The Year 8 students – Jessica Lomas, Charlotte Martin and Ben Silvester – put their heads together to imagine what life will be like in 2050 and created a cunning solution on how cities would be powered in the event of an energy crisis.

The team, named Subatomic Bradons, looked at using solar energy in areas such as the Sahara, which would then be distributed to cities all over the world through fibre optic cables.

It was an idea that beat off hundreds, and they were chosen as one of 12 teams to reach the final of Shell’s new national schools competition, The Bright Ideas Challenge.

The judging panel praised the team’s radical solution for recognising the value of tackling a global challenge with a global solution.

And the trio are reaping the rewards after scooping first place, winning £1,500 for their school and a computer tablet each, as well as well as a funded trip to Make the Future London, a festival of ideas and innovation which Shell is hosting at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park from June 30 to July 3.

The team will also find out there if they are the national champions of The Bright Ideas Challenge. If so, they will win a total of £5,000 for their school.

“The Bright Ideas Challenge was tough but that’s what made it so rewarding," they said. "We’re really excited about going to Make the Future London and getting the whole school voting on how we should spend our prize money.”

A delighted headteacher Andrew Morrison added: “It is always a challenge for teachers to illustrate the application of their knowledge in the world beyond our school gates.

“If we are to encourage future generations of scientists, mathematicians and engineers it is important that we inspire our young people to see how their knowledge can be utilised.”

Martin Haigh, senior energy adviser at Shell and one of the competition judges, said: “By using their ingenuity and problem-solving skills, alongside their science, technology, engineering and maths expertise from the classroom, the students pushed the boundaries of creativity.

“Today’s young people will play a vital role in tackling the big issues that will positively shape our future and we should encourage their creative thinking and ingenuity.

"The team from Bradon Forest School really rose to the challenge, surprising us with their level of insight and great ideas.”