Pupils “phizzed and whizzed” into the world of Roald Dahl, explored the Solar System and visited Buckingham Palace from inside their classroom when Google visited their school.

Taking part in a whole-day workshop organised by Google, students at St Albans High School for Girls had the chance to experience the innovative “Google Expeditions” equipment and software.

The software allows teachers to take their students on virtual reality tours to places such as museums, landmarks and outer space through collections of 360° and 3D images displayed through goggles.

While some students “played among the stars”, exploring the Solar System and the Milky Way, others enjoyed taking a closer look at coral reefs and visiting Buckingham Palace.

Google Expeditions also allows students to explore historical events and sites such as the Machu Picchu, as well as functions in the human body.

Head teacher Judy Rowe was delighted by the “gasps of amazement” that were heard coming from the classrooms.

She said: “It’s amazing to see how life-like the software is. The girls really enjoyed their expeditions and it helped bring to life what they learn about in their lessons.”