A UNIQUE lecture discussing the impact of happiness on the brain was held by a renowned professor on Tuesday (February 26).

Professor Lord Robert Winston returned to Charters School in Sunningdale to pass his scientific knowledge about happiness to more than 50 year 10 pupils

Held in the newly refurbished Lord Winston lecture theatre, he showed students a series of MRI images of the brain after patients were told a joke, or had eaten chocolate to show the impact it has on the brain.

The study suggests happiness drops around the age of 30 but gradually increases from 50 plus.

Prof Lord Robert Winston said: "I feel it is vitally important to visit schools to promote the vast range of opportunities within STEM subjects at A level and beyond.

"The key thing is for schools and universities to become much closer as it is so important that we nurture the next generation."

The professor explained the key differences between happiness and pleasure and showed the link between the happiness of young children and the anxiety experienced by their mothers during pregnancy.

He also explained the value of research, as it has been found that a child's happiness can be increased through positive interactions and environments.

Richard Pilgrim, head teacher at Charters School, said: "It was a pleasure spending time with Professor Winston and hearing about the science behind happiness.

"It seems that we cannot change our genes but we can change our environment. We are proud of the opportunities and support we put in place for our students and feel that by creating a happy environment we can help our students thrive."