Children were amazed when they had a glimpse inside the cockpit of a Navy search and rescue helicopter.

The Sea King helicopter, flown from Culdrose in Cornwall by its squadron of five Royal Naval officers, landed at Aldenham School's playing field in front of an audience of St Hilda's and Aldenham Prep pupils.

Last week's flying visit was arranged to raise awareness of the service and share the officers' personal experiences of life as a search and rescue pilot and crew.

Pupils were invited to explore the helicopter in small groups and quiz the officers.

They were impressed by the technology of the cockpit. One pupil said: "I thought the officers were "so clever to memorise all those buttons. I thought there would be one big red button."

St Hilda's school headteacher Sarah Jane Styles, who organised the visit, said: "I am so grateful to 771 Royal Naval Air Squadron for their time in visiting the school. I believe that education is so much more than sitting in a classroom and this visit will teach the children about the vital roles that different people play within society.

"Some of the younger children were initially a little nervous to approach the helicopter after its dramatic landing, but I believe it is entirely positive to encourage children to step out of their comfort zone."

Miss Styles, who joined St Hilda’s in January, is a former Royal Naval Officer herself and retains close links with the Navy as a member of the Royal Naval Reserves.

St Hilda’s and Aldenham Prep are part of the Aldenham Foundation of Schools, which was established in 2011.

Head of the Foundation James Fowler said: "It was great that so many of the younger children in the 900-strong Aldenham Foundation were able to enjoy this wonderful experience."