A former pupil of one of the region's high schools has secured a scholarship at an Oxbridge college.

Emma Slaughter of Horsford, a former pupil of Hellesdon High School, is approaching the end of her first term at St Hugh's College, part of the University of Oxford, having secured the prestigious Palgrave Brown Scholarship.

The scholarship is a bursary offered to undergraduates from Norfolk and Suffolk for financial support with their degree, with just one being offered out per year.

Miss Slaughter, who is studying a three year degree in history, said: 'I was so excited when I found out that I had got my place at St Hugh's and when I was told that I had got the scholarship, it was a massive weight off of my shoulders.'

The 18-year-old was required to go through a rigorous application process to secure her place at St Hugh's, which involved a formal interview and an admissions test; as well as a minimum of three A's in her A Levels.

She said: 'I'm so grateful to be here. My first term has been very hectic and I was very nervous to begin with, but I've settled in well.

'It's certainly proving a big step up from sixth form, but so far I'm really enjoying it. People have a lot of misconceptions about Oxford, but it has been really fun so far. Very hard work, but fun.'

Miss Slaughter graduated from Hellesdon Sixth Form Centre in the summer, with two A's and two A*'s in her A Levels, having studied history, geography, business studies and psychology.

She added: 'A huge thank you to everybody at Hellesdon who helped me get this far; especially Mrs Kelleway who put so much time and effort into helping me submit my application.'

Elizabeth Kelleway, head of history at Hellesdon, said: 'I was delighted to hear that Emma had been awarded the Palgrave Brown Scholarship.

'She was an outstanding History student at Hellesdon High School and I am sure that she will continue to make the most of the many opportunities she will be offered at Oxford.'

Richard Taylor, director of sixth form, added: 'This year we had four students gain a place at Oxbridge colleges, which is a fantastic achievement for Hellesdon High School and down to the consistent hard work of students and dedication of their teachers.'

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