Teenager Caitlin Dutton says cycling around Europe’s tallest mountain has taught her how to apply her determination and focus in a new, positive way.

Caitlin is one of four year 10 pupils from Springfields Academy in Calne who cycled round Mont Blanc in the fourth Extreme Classroom project.

Stefan Brace, Tim Dutton and Sid, whose surname we have been asked to withhold, joined 19 other children with complex learning, emotional, social and behavioural difficulties on the 350km trip which included nine major Tour de France climbs.

Caitlin, 14, said: “It was challenging but really fun. At the end, when we all finished together and everyone was hugging each other, it was really special.

“I’ve learnt to use my focus. I was using it against people but now I use it in a positive way.”

The team left at the end of September for four days of cycling, through three countries, with just a single rest day in between. They were split into three groups, with each one backed by a team van with an experienced cyclist and support crew.

The groups were supported by mentors including Rugby World Cup winner Lewis Moody, record-breaking polar explorer Alan Chambers and former World Thai-boxing Champion Rachael MacKenzie.

Stefan, 14, who had never been abroad before, said: “Finishing was the best part because it meant I had achieved the whole thing.”

Organiser Kevin Derby from the Springfields Academy is hoping to repeat the trip next year.

He said: “The emotion, pride and sense of achievement was overwhelming.”