MP for Richmond Park Zac Goldsmith and councillor for Twickenham Tania Mathias recognised the impact of an apprenticeship programme at Teddington’s National Physics Laboratory (NPL) following a visit this week.

The 18-month rotational programme, endorsed by the Institute of Physics, provides students with the skills and knowledge to become professional science technicians.

Mr Goldsmith said: “'This hidden gem is doing some of the most important work it is possible to do, and it’s the best possible news that so many young people now have the chance to become part of it in a meaningful way.

“The students I met were enormously impressive, and I’m sure many will go on to contribute to changing the world for the better.'”