A FORMER Chulmleigh College student has secured an offer to study chemistry at the University of Oxford.

Elena Carey achieved A*s in her physics, maths, and chemistry A-levels at Exeter College last summer and applied for a place at the world’s second oldest university during her gap year.

“I’m really happy,” she said. “I’m so glad that I decided to apply this year. I feel like it paid off.

“It’s definitely a difficult process, but a wholly rewarding experience.

“I applied quite late, and the college was great at getting my references in and arranging mock interviews for me, even though I had already left.

“Currently, I’m really interested in nanotechnology, and I want to research more about that.

“I’ve had a few lab placements which were really interesting. I’m sure my interests will change at university, so I’m looking forward to exploring that.”

Fifteen other students at Exeter College received offers from Oxford and Cambridge.

Head of Academic Aspiration Martin Gilbert praised them, saying: “I am so pleased for the Oxbridge offer holders; they have worked so hard to gain the skills and academic evidence that these world-class universities are looking for.

“The application process is long and rigorous, and the range of subjects they hold offers in, from physics to Classics, highlights the breadth of specialists that we have here at Exeter College.

“With the help and guidance from all our outstanding staff, these learners have shown themselves to be independent, explorative, and capable of critical and analytical thinking.”

Assistant Principal Billie Stokes added: “We’re so proud of these students and everyone who applied to Oxbridge this year, their hard work and dedication have been truly inspiring.

“It’s fantastic to see our learners pursuing such diverse and exciting academic pathways!”