A SCHOOLGIRL from Templecombe is embarking on a rigorous exercise regime in preparation for a five-week trek in Africa.

Amelie Jannoe, 16, has been selected for a British School Exploring Society (BSES) expedition.

She will contribute directly to research during a trek from the canyons of Namibia to the skeleton coast.

The Sherborne Girls student said: "I have opted to take on this challenge because of the research that takes place during the trip, the amazing opportunity and the learning outcomes that are involved.

"The goal of my expedition is to locate, map and catalogue, with photographs and co-ordinates, the location and route information of rock paintings in the Brandberg Massif.

"In addition we will be working in partnership with the Elephant Human Relations Aid (EHRA), monitoring elephant populations in the Ugab Savannah Grasslands."

The schoolgirl, who is studying the International Baccalaureate Diploma at Sherborne Girls, is fundraising for the trip and has already secured backing from the Oxley Sports Centre which is also supporting her fitness training.

She needs to raise £4,500 in total for the expedition.

Matt Nelson, manager of the Oxley, said: "We are delighted to sponsor Amelie and our specialist staff are supporting her with a rigorous fitness regime using the centre's Technogym and pool to ensure she is strong and fit enough to embark on the hundreds of kilometres she will trek over the five-week expedition. We wish her every success with the trip."

The BSES offers few expeditions every year to extremely remote and challenging environments for students aged 16 to 25.

Anyone who would like to donate money, has a fundraising idea or is interested in sponsoring the student, should contact Katie Pearn at Sherborne Girls School on 01935818215 or email kfp@sherborne.com.