EIGHT A-level students from Clitheroe Royal Grammar School are being groomed as future world leaders.

The group are off to the USA for a global conference aimed at producing tomorrow's pioneers.

They will be among 80 students from across the globe invited to the special event, where they will learn about making a difference in the world.

In July, the sixth-form scholars will be debating with the most able pupils from 80 nations for the two-week programme, touring Congress buildings in Washington DC and New York.

The conference is invitation-only and Clitheroe Royal Grammar School is one of the only UK schools participating.

The scholars will work with business leaders and diplomats and debate concepts in communications, diplomacy, law, human rights, peace, security, economics and the role of the United Nations.

Head of English Joanne Mangan ran an essay competition and sixth-form scholars had to prove they really wanted the "life-changing" experience.

She said: "They will represent their own country but also be assigned to another one probably a developing country and travel to state buildings debating global issues."

And she was in no doubt about the educational value of the visit.

"They will be under tight deadlines and have to handle pressure and even if they don't become world leaders they will come back as mature children who can cope with anything.

"Most of the students have ambitions to get jobs in law and politics and these skills are crucial to these professions."

The eight include Rachel Round, 16, from Blackburn, who hopes to carve out a career in law. She said the trip would be "a fantastic experience and help me think on my feet".

Budding politician Amy Duckworth, 16, from Grimsargh, near Longridge, added: "Making a difference in the world is so important and I feel the experience will be hugely beneficial and contribute greatly to my future career."