The likelihood of teenagers choosing to ban vending machines from their school premises may sound about as believable as Las Vegas opting to get rid of its casinos. But the Year 11 pupils who make up the student council at Robert Clack don't appear to be like ordinary teenagers.

They talk non-stop about their enthusiasm for the school, but are keen to share their ideas for improvement - starting with chocolate and crisps.

“We are trying to make school dinners healthier. We've got a salad bar and you should see the queues now,” Meghan Adjei, a student councillor, says.

Ben Thorne, a fellow councillor, says firmly: “If pupils are not getting a good diet at home then having healthy food in school balances it out.” Kayleigh Cooper, another pupil, adds: “It helps you to concentrate more in class.”

Everyone has got used to the lack of vending machines now, the councillors say. “At first there was a big uproar,” Ben says. “But now [the other pupils] just go to the canteen and get a fruit bag instead.”

The councillors, aged 15 to 16, are also intent on making their school more eco-friendly. Thanks to their efforts, Robert Clack has received a bronze award from Eco-Schools, an international award programme.

The pupils' attitude to their studies and extracurricular activities is also more reminiscent of School Swot than Kevin the Teenager. With GCSE exams coming up in two months' time, they regularly stay until 5pm or 6pm to take part in after-school activities and homework clubs.

George Lovell, who is also a member of the council, is taking music A level early. “All the teachers are passionate about what they do and passionate about us succeeding,” he says. Career ambitions of the group include fashion designer, child psychologist, actuary, forensic detective and history teacher.

Being on the student council is “hard work” but rewarding, the pupils say. Most have been on the council since Year 7. It was consistently oversubscribed, so the democratic youngsters set up sub-committees for those who were not elected.

“We feel like our voice is heard,” Meghan says. They even interview teachers, recently helping to choose the head of the English department. “We just had a chat, no formal questions,” Ben adds. They try to ensure that new recruits will fit in with the ethos of their teaching colleagues.

“You can have a laugh with them and be yourself around them. It makes it easier to work hard,” Meghan says. Kayleigh adds: “Even if you're in a lower set they will still challenge you. They will always stay behind with you after class and try and help you.”

Times Recommends

• Lies and cover-up at MG Rover exposed by report
• High oil prices push manufacturing costs up
• Primark founder steps down as chief executive