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Creative students have been wowed by seeing their artwork displayed – in Antarctica.

Year 7 and 8 students from Epping St John’s Church of England School submitted their pieces of work to a flag design competition to celebrate Antarctica Day.

The British Antarctic Survey chose the four pieces of work from the worldwide competition to be taken to Antarctica by its researchers.

To show students the journey their work had taken, researchers sent back a set of photographs of the art on display in the middle of the Antarctica.

Faye Clarke, head of geography, said: “This was a worldwide competition and not all pieces of work get taken to Antarctica, so we have been very lucky.

“I had no idea how special the photos were going to be. It is incredible to see that a little bit of Epping St John’s has reached all the way to Antarctica.

“Students love learning about Antarctica as it is a completely contrasting environment from our own. They have learnt how we are putting Antarctica at risk through contributing to climate change, but as a result of these photos I think they are more aware than ever that we have a responsibility to protect it.

“The photos have made them realise it’s not just somewhere they learn about, see on documentaries or hear about in the media; it is a real place, with real wildlife that is at risk.”

The flags were photographed at Rothera research station, the largest British Antarctic facility which is a centre for biological research and a hub for supporting deep-field and air operations. On Adelaide Island to the west of the Antarctic Peninsula, the site includes the Bonner research laboratory, offices and workshops and a crushed rock runway, hanger and wharf.

Emily Rowlands, PhD researcher from British Antarctic Survey, said to students: “We hope this has been a beneficial experience and that your classes enjoy seeing their designs with our flag bearers in Antarctica.”