(Be nice and don’t copy stuff)

Young people who are students (in years 7-13) at a secondary school or FE college in Newcastle, Sunderland, Gateshead, South Tyneside or North Tyneside on 31/05/2013 are eligible to enter

There are 3 age categories: 11-14 (years 7-9); 14-16 (years 10-11); 16-18 (years 12-13)

The theme of your story should be ‘DNA’

You can create your own title

You have up to 500 words to tell your story (this doesn’t include the title)

Your entry should be your own work

Your entry should be about how the science of genetics and DNA has shaped the way we live or may influence the future

You should also include your inspiration for the entry. This can be up to 100 words in length but could be an image if you prefer

All entries should be submitted by 5th July 2013 using the online submission form here

By submitting your entry, you are agreeing that we may publish it online and display a printed copy during British Science Week alongside your name and school

Winners and finalists will be informed by letter to their home address by 17th July 2013. The schools which the winners attend will be informed by email at the same time

The judges’ decision is final