PUPILS designed and made a number of creative models and achieved a national award in the process.

Year 9 students at Walthamstow Academy, in Billet Road, Walthamstow, had a science day yesterday where they had to work in groups to create a model.

The project was part of the national BA Crest Award, which required students to spend 20 hours on the design, which were assessed by judges yesterday and were awarded certificates.

A hovercraft and finger-printing model were among the designs, but the 'Rocking Rocket' was declared the overall winner.

Head of science Rebecca McKelbey said: “It was an excellent afternoon and they absolutely loved it.

“It showed them how relevant science is to everyday life and brought out their creativity. The aim was to get them more interested in science and for them to gain the award.”