Dream big was the message to pupils when a polar explorer shared some of the challenges she came up against while achieving a new record.

Preet Chandi spoke about the freezing temperatures and daily battle to survive during an Antarctic trek when she gave a talk at Northfleet School for Girls.

Preet, a physiotherapist in the British Army, recently become the first woman of colour to solo ski to the South Pole, completing her expedition of 700 miles across Antarctica in 40 days, five days ahead of schedule.

In a talk to Year 7 and 8 pupils, Preet shared not only her experiences in Antarctica but her path through life from school age.

She gave insights into her journey, bringing a replica of her sled which weighed 90kg, and talked about the food she took, how she packed it and showed her cooking set up of a small gas stove. Pupils watched video diaries from her trip, which highlighted some of the harsh conditions she faced including temperatures of -50C and wind speeds of up to 60mph.

Prior to her trip, Preet said she googled “polar explorers” and she found that no one looked like her. Two weeks after her trip she googled again and there was an image of herself which filled her with pride.

Her main message to pupils was to “dream big” and know that you can do anything you want to in life no matter your background, race or academic abilities.

Mia in Year 7 said: “She has inspired me more to do anything I want in future.”

Gracie, also in Year 7, added: “You shouldn’t listen to anyone who says you can’t do something.”