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EXPERTS and entertainers from the fields of science, medicine, architecture, arts and technology thrilled a packed auditorium at Fallibroome High School.

The Priory Lane school hosted the world's first TEDx Youth Seminar on Thursday (November 12) with a series of inspirational talks.

Technology, Entertainment, Design (TED) is a non-profit organisation which is devoted to 'Ideas Worth Spreading'. Events are staged around the world to bring together the 'world's most fascinating thinkers and doers'.

Pupils and teachers were part of a 300-strong audience to witness videos and speeches, as well as artistic performances. Fashion entrepreneur Sissy Rooney chatted to the budding businessmen and women.

More videos from philosophers and the popular Blue Man Group filled the morning – and a video from Fallibroome's students - to urge the young minds to think about the environment and their choices in life.

MEN media editorial chief Eamonn O'Neal gave a humorous presentation on his winding career path.

There were amazing musical performances – one from a top Chinese violinist and a touching and rousing finale from Emmanuel Jal, a former child solider in Africa (see video for highlights from them) .

A Level pupil Emma Burgess, 17, said: "The whole event was enlightening. It makes you realise that if you follow your dreams you can do anything. Everyone that was here today had achieved something."

TEDx is the latest off-shoot of the project aimed at local groups hosting their own Ted-like event. Fallibroome's glitzy TEDx conference became the world's first youth version.

Peter Rubery, headteacher, said: "The TED talk archive is an amazing resource of inspirational speakers and ideas that we have used with students and teachers to stimulate and challenge our thinking.

"We were approached directly by the TED organisation to pilot this opportunity to engage our young people in this remarkable community."