A budding scientist has made it through to the finals of a national competition after describing science as a “discipline of romance and passion.”

Charlotte Heath, a Year 9 pupil at Haberdashers’ Monmouth School for Girls, has been selected as a finalist in the Schools Science Competition run by the Science and Technology Facilities Council.

The enthusiastic teen had to write a 500-word essay entitled Why I Love Science to enter the contest.

In her article, Charlotte, from Ross-on-Wye, quoted Stephen Hawking to explain her love for the subject, writing: “Science is not only a disciple of reason, but also one of romance and passion.”

She added: “Science develops an understanding of us, our habitat and the world beyond.

“It helps unlock potential, allows us to analyse theories, develop answers and helps to explain the evolving world.”

Within her essay, Charlotte also asked: “Will technology take over the world and be valued more than naturally beautiful objects?

“How might science help us to rectify greed and self-interest?”

The inspired pupil has been invited to attend a celebration at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory in Oxfordshire next Tuesday.

Each finalist will give a two-minute presentation about why they love science and the winner will receive an iPad mini.

Finalists will also be treated to a special behind the scenes tour of one of their high-powered laser facilities and hear about the work carried out at RAL.