The interactive visit was set to inspire more young people in the UK to take up IT courses.

Pupils from five Hemel Hempstead schools were invited to the company's London offices on Wednesday, February 25.

Microsoft employees spoke to students about working in the industry and the importance of technology to the wider world.

Young people working towards a Diploma in IT at John F Kennedy, Astley Cooper, Adeyfield , Longdean and Hemel Hempstead School attended, thanks to an arrangement made by e-skills UK.

CEO of e-skills UK, Karen Price, said: "The continued decline in the number of students choosing IT-related A-levels and GCSEs highlights a serious issue for the UK.

"To compete in the technology intensive globalised economy, we need an inspiring curriculum in schools that attracts increasing numbers of
talented students into technology-related degrees and careers.

"The Diploma in IT does just that, and the hands-on involvement of companies like Microsoft really helps to inspire and motivate students."