Students at Dunstable's Manshead School have been tackling all sorts of interesting challenges as part of a special programme. The Year 9 and Year 12 students are trying out activities ranging from kayaking and 'virtual' Formula One driving to finding out more about sign language.

It is all part of an 11-week 'enrichment programme' to help students embarking on a new phase in their education. The idea is to encourage them to take any opportunity to learn and enjoy the different experiences that the world can offer.

At the end of the 11 weeks, the pupils will be given the chance to take up another learning challenge.

Head Jim Parker said: 'It is important for students to be able to develop new skills at school that don't just lead to exams. We hope the enrichment programme will allow students to do something different and fun that complements their traditional academic education.'