Student has a head for science

5:00pm Saturday 10th May 2008

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A TEENAGE science student, who hopes to become a brain surgeon, has been nominated for a regional award.

Jagjeet Singh Hans, 17, of Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College, in Darlington, already has top exam results and offers of places at leading universities to study medicine.

Now the biology, chemistry and maths student has been named as one of four nominees for the Outstanding Achiever of the Year for the Celebration of Learning and Skills Awards 2008.

He was the first of his family born in England, and is fluent in English and Punjabi.

He has also take extra lessons to gain Open University courses in molecules, medicine and drugs.

He was the first student of his college to gain a place in the second round of the Royal Society of Chemistrys Olympiad earlier this year.

And he has also gained work experience at local surgery and St Teresas Hospice, in Darlington.

Jagjeet said: I am very proud of myself for overcoming the obstacles I faced at comprehensive school and Im thrilled to be put forward for this prestigious award, which I would feel honoured to win.

I always strive to surpass any goals I set for myself and I cant wait to start university later this year.

Chris Roberts, regional director of the Learning and Skill Council North-East, said: Jagjeet is clearly a very able young man, but it is his drive and determination to succeed through learning and developing his skills which impresses me most.

The awards ceremony will take place in June at the Sage Gateshead. The winner of the £1,000 prize, sponsored by learndirect, will be revealed by public vote.

To cast your vote go to www.lsc.gov.uk/colas08.