WIRRAL students have been praised for leading a European research project into sustainability within industry and commerce.

Sixth-formers from Birkenhead School worked with students from two partner schools in Germany and Spain to conduct hands-on scientific and economic research at a range of leading national and global businesses as part of the Corneluis project.

It culminated in the students giving a presentation in Pamplona in front of delegates including the Education Minister for the Navarra region of Spain, academics from the University of Navarra and the CEO of Huntsman Pharmaceuticals – one of the multi-national companies taking part in the project.

Birkenhead School Headmaster John Clark and Head of Science Mike Hayward developed the initiative to give students a taste of international co-operation and an experience of research within the world of industry and commerce.

As part of the project students spent two weeks at a variety of businesses including Wirral-based Unilever and Hankinson Group.

Birkenhead School headmaster John Clark said: “We believe this project is unique within the UK, giving students from Birkenhead School and our partner schools in Germany and Spain the opportunity to experience life in global companies, and undertake genuine scientific and economic research in the field of sustainability.

"The Comenius Project is a fantastic addition to our students' cvs and university applications.

"We look forward to running the project with a new team of students next year."

The programme is funded by the British Council as part of a Europe-wide initiative to promote multi-lateral school partnerships.

Mike Hayward said: "The Comenius programme was a fantastic experience for all of the students involved.

"The students had the opportunity to enjoy valuable hands-on research experience, build their communication and language skills, develop presentation skills and most importantly gain an understanding of the international co-operation needed in the world of business and industry."

Businesses who would like to be involved in the project should contact the Headmaster John Clark on 0151 652 4014.