Schoolchildren in the Maldon area can now claim a free CD-Rom, entitled Exploring Radioactivity, to accompany visits to Bradwell Power Station.

BNFL Magnox Generation, operator of the power station, has produced an interactive CD-Rom which is designed to help create a basic understanding of radioactivity and the role in the periodic table in modern science.

The CD-Rom, which was launched in January at the National Conference for the Association of Science Education at Reading University, supports key stage 3 of the National Curriculum.

A spokeswoman for BNFL Magnox Generation said: "Using a novel "atom smashers quiz", children are encouraged to learn about solids, liquids and gases in terms of arrangement and movement of particles."

There was also a more advanced version of the quiz which tests pupils' knowledge even further, focusing on hydrogen, oxygen, carbon and uranium, she said.

The free CD-Rom can be used on its own or as part of wider classroom projects, or as preparation for a visit to Bradwell Power Station and its visitor centre.

Schools in the Maldon area can claim their copy of the CD-Rom by contacting Christine Legge on 01453 813069.

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