Space could be the final frontier for pupils across Thanet next year.

Wellesley House school in Broadstairs is through to the final shortlist for a chat with British astronaut Tim Peake during his time aboard the International Space Station.

It is one of just 10 schools across the country to have the chance of linking up for a 10-minute conversation with Tim on amateur radio during his time in orbit.

He is due to launch into space at 11am on December 15 for the Principia mission. It is the first time a British astronaut will be on the International Space Station in an official capacity.

The project is a collaboration between Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS), the UK Space Agency, the Radio Society of Great Britain and the European Space Agency (ESA).

"The children are very excited about it. They are working towards potentially getting their amateur radio licence and their own call sign" - Kerry Sabin-Dawson

Wellesley House science teacher Kerry Sabin-Dawson, who masterminded the application with the help of Hilderstone Radio Club and Monkton Stargazers, said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be able to bring in our local communities and give everyone the potential to chat with Tim Peake.

“It’s lovely to have something in Thanet that’s so exciting for the children.

“The process has taken a lot of planning and applications but it has definitely been worth it.

“The children are very excited about it. We have a Space Explorers Club which started in September and they are working towards potentially getting their amateur radio licence and their own call sign.

“It gives them a huge background on science in general.”

The team has extended an invitation to other schools from across Kent to become part of this exciting project.

To find out more, email Mrs Sabin-Dawson at office@wellesleyhouse.net