LUCKY science students from Otley are being given the chance to work alongside real professionals.

The students from Prince Henry's Grammar School will work closely with a professor from the University of Leeds on a project looking at how recycled waste can fight plant diseases.

It will mean them finding out the importance of recycling and give them a greater understanding of how healthy soils support healthier plants.

And it is hoped the project will not only encourage pupils into a career in science, but will help the university by giving its experts a new, younger perspective.

The school is launching itself into the project after being one of just 45 schools in the country to be chosen to take part in the Royal Society's Partnership Grants Scheme.

The national academy of science scheme, which is sponsored by Esso UK and the Mercer's Company, aims to get scientists and engineers to share their knowledge and experience with schools.

Prince Henry's will work will Professor Holland, from Leeds University, investigating composts and their use as sources of anti-fungal and anti-bacterial agents.

Dr Vas Koritsas, science teacher at Prince Henry's, said it was great news for the school. "This project will not only give us the opportunity to develop our understanding of the environmental importance of recycling, but will also give us an insight into how healthy soils support healthier plants.

"Our project will further study whether composts contain substances that protect plants from disease."

Year 9 pupil Charlotte Aspen, 13, added: "This is an exciting project which will allow us to do lots of experiments and find out more about university science."

Sir Robert May, President of the Royal Society said the school had done very well. "This will give the pupils the chance to work alongside a professional scientist. I hope this experience will inspire more schoolchildren to pursue a career in science and engineering."

And the partnership will also be beneficial to the professionals.

Gordon Sawyer, of Esso UK Plc, said: "The school's project partner will have the chance to develop their communication skills and engage with young minds who often bring a new perspective to over familiar topics."

The grants were launched in November last year during a visit to the Royal Society by HM The Queen.

There are two rounds of awards every year giving teachers of five to 16 year olds the chance to develop ideas and offer pupils the opportunity to reach ' real science'.

Grants of up to £2,500 are awarded to pay for high quality activities in science and engineering.

The scheme is expected to run initially for three years during which the Royal Society expects to give out more than £500,000 to schools across the country.