STUDENTS at Nova Hreod Academy celebrated after making it through to the finals of a national competition to design a new app.

The #UnitedApp2015 competition is a contest between 700 young people from across the country who attend schools in the United Learning group, of which Nova Hreod is part.

The entrepreneurial app-design competition challenged youngsters to dream up a mobile app which could help develop learning or have another educational purpose and had the potential to make a national or global impact.

The app had to be designed to help parents to help their children, and if Nova students’ design impresses judges at the final, the app could be live and available from the AppStore next year.

Headteacher Darren Barton said: “We are delighted that our team has been shortlisted for the final of this national competition.

“They are very excited to have the chance to showcase their technology skills which we try and nurture across our school curriculum.”

United Learning joined ideas company 7billionideas to create the contest, which promotes entrepreneurial spirit, innovation and team work while introducing students to the world of coding.

Students worked hard through November to develop their ideas for educational apps.

More than 180 teams – nick named think tanks – were formed for students to work together to develop their ideas.

Think tank “Russell”from Nova Hreod Academy was one of 10 chosen to represent their school in the finals.

The finals are scheduled to take place at the headquarters of accountancy software company Xero, which have sponsored this year’s competition.

David Harkin, of 7billionideas said: “This is a fantastic achievement for Nova Hreod’s students and a great recognition of their innovative minds and super team work.

“We look forward to seeing them at the finals.”