A group of young science project winners were given a behind-the-scenes tour of a major Kent hospital.

The team of girls from Dane Court School were one of the winning groups at the KM Bright Spark Awards, earning a VIP tour of Benenden Hospital.

The girls were chosen by KM Bright Spark judge and Benenden Hospital director Jane Abbott, who was impressed by both the design of their thermal data calibrator.

Accompanied by teacher Kim Van Hinsbergh, the girls toured the hospital's new theatre department, before donning scrubs to enter the Sterile Services Department where hospital instruments are cleaned.

A highlight of the day was watching a presentation by Ken Woodward, a victim of a chemical accident in the workplace, which left him blind. He spoke about how this situation could have been avoided.

Lunch was served up in the hospital restaurant during which the girls took part in a hand hygiene session, putting their hands under a UV lamp to show areas where germs can lurk even after washing.

Jane Barlow from the Benenden Hospital Trust said: “It was an absolute delight to have the girls with us for the day. They were enthusiastic, polite and great ambassadors for the school. They enjoyed touring our facilities here at Benenden and we enjoyed having them here.”

Simon Dolby from the KM Charity Team said: "A key aim of KM Bright Sparks is to encourage the next generation to think about science subjects and careers. Enabling winners to visit places like Benenden Hospital to see science and engineering in action is inspiring for students."

Organisations supporting the awards include Prendon Panels, Integrated Technologies Ltd., Hectic Lifestlyes, The University of Kent, Golding Homes, BAE Systems, Discovery Products, Benenden Hospital Trust, Floplast Ltd., Pfizer, Betteridge and Millson, and Snapwire.

Entries are now being accepted for the 2017 KM Bright Spark Awards. Find out more about the awards and how your school can enter here.