SOME of the brightest boys at a Croydon school have been mentored by a world record-breaking swimmer.

Multiple world champion Mark Foster visited Archbishop Lanfranc School last Thursday to talk to youngsters from Years 7 to 10 about the importance of aiming for the stars.

On the day, students were also set various challenges inspired by the life of Leonardo da Vinci, including dissecting a rat and designing a bridge.

Marie Nassor, the school's deputy head teacher, said: "Six of the brightest boys in each year group were selected to take part in a 'super learning day'.

"It was designed to raise their aspirations and motivation levels.

"They were put into a situation outside their comfort zone, working in mixed-year groups and assigned a task at random."

The visit was funded by the London Challenge education organisation.