Two excited students from The Highcrest Academy in High Wycombe have been chosen to represent the UK in a ‘ground-breaking’ global conference.

Noor Khan and Tanzina Choudhury, both 17, have been selected as Student Ambassadors as part of a work placement scheme funded by pharmaceutical giants Johnson & Johnson (J&J).

The two sixth formers won their places as part of the Bridge to Employment programme run by J&J in conjunction with the school in High Wycombe.

Rob Evans, Highcrest’s Careers Leader, said: “Noor and Tanzina were picked after a searching virtual interview with the American selection panel.

"In the pre-Covid-19 world, that would have meant a trip to Washington DC in September 2020 to attend a global student conference.

"Instead, there will now be a ground-breaking virtual event at which they will meet Student Ambassadors from other countries.

“Obviously, it’s a pity they cannot go to Washington and follow in the footsteps of two Highcrest students who travelled to America last year – but clearly an online conference is preferable in these times, and their selection is still hugely prestigious for the sixth formers and the school.”

There is only one other pupil elsewhere in the UK who has been selected as a student ambassador in this year’s programme.

Mr Evans added: "The American selection panel told us that all our students conducted themselves with great enthusiasm and dedication throughout the rigorous application process and stood out among a competitive pool of applicants.

"All the students who participate in the Bridge to Employment Programme at Highcrest learn so much from working with mentors from Johnson & Johnson.

"We really value this unique programme as it helps our students develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed right now and when they leave Highcrest.”

Tanzina said: "I'm very happy to have been given this opportunity to become student ambassador and represent my programme and school. It truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience."

Noor said: "I eagerly anticipate representing my school as a student ambassador and meeting other student ambassadors. Words cannot express how grateful I am for this opportunity.”

Sarah Scanlon, Business Unit Director at Janssen, the pharmaceutical companies of J&J, said: “We have all been so impressed with the positive attitude, engagement and professionalism of Noor and Tanzina.

"It is important to appreciate that even though the conference will now take place virtually, both students have received outstanding recognition at a global level.

"We are incredibly proud to be able to support their development through our Bridge to Employment programme.”