Ria Pradyumna Pandit, a 16-year-old from Warfield, was selected to attend the Honeywell Leadership Challenge Academy at the American Space and Rocket Centre in Huntsville, Alabama.

The unique fortnight-long leadership programme ran between February 21 and March 6 and saw 306 pupils aged 16 to 18 from 39 countries take part, after Bracknell-based Honeywell revealed the participants last week.

The academy uses interactive technology, science-based workshops and team exercises to teach the children – all of Honeywell employees – valuable leadership skills.

Ria, who goes to Kendrick School in Reading, said: “It was an amazing experience. The academy helped me gain an insight into the lives of pupils around the world, and their thoughts and ideas regarding STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) which we are all passionate about.

“After attending this unique and exciting experience, I was able to see how the concepts I learn every day in maths, economics and physics can be applied to real life situations.” During the programme, they rubbed shoulders with scientists, engineers and even former astronauts, who shared their first-hand professional experiences. Team-building challenges were also on the menu, with the youngsters tasked with designing, building and testing their own rocket, taking part in simulated astronaut training, shuttle missions and a moon walk.

Michael Bennett, president of Honeywell Hometown Solutions –the firm’s global corporate citizenship initiative – said: “Our goal is to continue to develop a new generation of leaders, engineers, and scientists who can address the challenges of tomorrow.

“The programme engaged these exceptional pupils in meaningful science and maths-based challenges and introduced them to a world of rewarding STEM careers.” Since it began in 2010, the programme has provided scholarships to nearly 1,450 youngsters.

Dr Deborah Barnhart, chief executive of the space centre, said: “With this opportunity, we allowed them to see a vision of themselves in the future without any filters, families and friends. They judged themselves against their global peer group and considered a course of action for their own future.”