STUDENTS from a Wirral school are among 17 sixth-formers that have gone to America for an educational experience linked to the US Presidential elections.

The three, from Weatherhead High School in Wallasey, won the trip following a nationwide social action competition, Inspire US, organised by The Talent Foundry.

Over eight days, students from four UK schools will join campaigners in Washington and Pennsylvania, observing first-hand what it takes to win an election.

The Inspire US competition engaged more than 70 student teams across the UK. Teams taking part worked on social action projects in their communities for three months, later presenting their campaigns at a Finalist Forum in London.

The prize includes visits to The White House and the Capitol, alongside breakfast briefings, masterclasses with campaign teams and practical lobbying and advocacy experiences.

The students taking part are from Lampton School in London, Preston Manor (Wembley), Oasis Academy Hadley (London), and Weatherhead High.

Throughout the competition, students attended masterclasses, built social media presences, conducted focus groups, engaged with MPs and councillors, secured press coverage, and delivered petitions.

Campaign topics among the 10 finalist teams varied widely, from child poverty and climate change to road safety and period poverty.

The team of three from Weatherhead High School designed a campaign called Pothole Action.

The campaign highlighted the dangers of potholes on the Wirral, arguing the issue is nationally neglected and costs the economy billions. The team called for government action to address the pothole crisis.

In a joint statement, Weatherhead team members Eleanor, Karina, Phoebe said: "We enjoyed engaging with our community, hearing their views, and meeting our local MP to advocate for change".

Jenni Anderson, chief executive at The Talent Foundry, said: "Over 70 teams took part in Inspire US this year, and now the final five student teams will put their skills to use in an international campaign experience.

"We’re inspired by their passion and wish them luck as they dive into the election atmosphere."