THE former Minister of State for Security and Counter Terrorism has paid a visit to the fledgling Christleton International Studio to see how the school is leading the way on technology.

Baroness Pauline Neville-Jones visited the school with Nigel Jones, CEO of IAAC (Information Assurance Advisory Council), Dr Danny Dresner from the University of Manchester and Chris Hindley, chief executive of Youth Federation.

A total of 92 per cent of the students at CIS are studying IT, computer science or maths at post-16 level.

CIS is exploring ways of working with the group to provide students with a cyber security qualification.

From 2010 to 2011, Baroness Neville-Jones was Minister of State in the Home Office responsible for Security and Counter terrorism and a member of the National Security Council.

Baroness Neville-Jones has a background in government and the private sector. She was a career member of the Diplomatic Service from 1963 to 1996 during which time she was Head of the Foreign Affairs and Defence Secretariat in the Cabinet Office, chairman of the Joint Intelligence Committee, deputy secretary to the Cabinet.

Kate Unsworth, principal of the school, said: "With 95 per cent of all our students studying a foreign language, to be able to ask questions and listen to the advice and guidance from somebody so inspirational is an amazing opportunity and it has really struck a chord with many of our students.

"As a linguist myself who has worked in over a dozen countries, she is inspirational in her love of learning, awareness and knowledge of the world around us."

Six students gave presentations on the topics of international mindedness, cyber security and computer science and they were praised for their professionalism of their presentations by Nigel Jones, CEO of IAAC.

Baroness Neville-Jones received a warm reception and she gave a clear statement on girls aspirations and access to world of technology, emphasising that there was a place for all in the world of cyber security beyond the traditional image.

She will return to Chester in January when she will open the new building for CIS and join in their celebrations of their name change to Chester International School.

Tony Lamberton, CEO of The Learning Trust, said: "All students, whether they will work in cyber security in the future or other fields, all need a deep and authentic understanding of the world and this is something which CIS is determined to provide for their students through engaging with industry and national leaders.

"To have so many in one room with our students is an absolute privilege."