The next generation of innovators recently met TeenTech patron Prince Andrew at Buckingham Palace to share their inventions, which were designed with the remit “to make life better, simpler, safer or more fun” using the power of science and technology.

Ideas included drones to detect and absorb pollutants, an app that calculates a safe way home from school and a suitcase that provides everything for the stressed commuter, with room for clothes, a workspace and even somewhere to sit.

Some 269 schools in the UK and Europe registered to take part in the TeenTech Awards, and over 1,500 students were involved.

Sumair Mohammed from Evelyn Grace Academy (www.evelyngraceacademy.org) in Brixton was named Teacher of the Year.

His school has participated for two years, over which time he has seen the number of students wanting to be involved increase from eight to 80.

He said: “Many of our students do not see much of life beyond Brixton, but with the support of TeenTech, they have been given access to mentors from some of the largest technology companies in the world.

“TeenTech has had an incredibly positive impact on our students, allowing them to recognise a future for themselves in careers they had not thought of.

"Since starting the TeenTech Awards at Evelyn Grace Academy, we have also noticed an increase in students at Year 9 choosing Computer Science as their first-choice subject for GCSEs; before we did the programme, there were 12 students in our GCSE Computer Science class, we now have the majority of our current Year 9 cohort selecting this subject.

“The best influence of TeenTech has been on our more reserved students, who have realised they can achieve more than they thought they were capable of.”

Maggie Philbin, TeenTech co-founder and Tomorrow’s World presenter, said: “The winners can be really proud of their achievements. Support from the TeenTech Programme is enabling teenagers to develop incredible ideas and projects, and helping students understand their own potential.

“Schools and students taking part in the TeenTech programme are provided with resources and year-round support — including access to mentors all over the world.

“They can also attend a series of live innovation events and workshops with more than 200 scientists, engineers and technology pioneers from companies such as Accenture, Atkins, Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals, GSK, JVC Kenwood, Symantec, FDM Group, Cross Country Trains, Rolls-Royce and Lloyds Banking Group.”