THREE students have been chosen by a House of Commons Select Committee to put forward their opinions on the standard of science education in the UK.

Teenagers Vicky Parkin, Fay Tuddenham and Liz Teasdale will appear before the Parliamentary Select Committee on Science and Technology at a convention in London on Tuesday.

The first year A-Level science students from Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College, in Darlington, are among hundreds of students nationally who have contributed towards a Government inquiry into the standard of science education received by 14 to 19-year-olds.

The Darlington students have been chosen to travel to the capital's Science Museum and air their views during a debate and evidence session in front of the select committee.

Vicky, 17, said of her involvement in the inquiry: "It has been a really good opportunity. I have enjoyed being involved in the research and having the chance to express my views on science education in this country."

The 17-year-old, from Richmond, North Yorkshire, who is travelling to London a day in advance of her college colleagues to attend a dinner in the House of Commons with select committee members, said: "I am excited and nervous about appearing before the committee, but I hope to do well."

The girls' director of science at Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College, Linda Aldridge, said: "It is important that the Government consults a wide range of students to find out their views.

"This is also an excellent opportunity for Vicky, Liz and Fay to gain an insight into how the Government works."