Paston Sixth Form College has had a record year, with more students than ever starting university courses this autumn.

The North Walsham college has placed 60pc of its students at university, beating the previous best 59pc in 2010/11.

To add to the record, 21pc of the students are starting at top ranking Russell Group Universities this year, including a best-ever six students who gained places at Oxbridge.

College principal Kevin Grieve said: 'I was extremely pleased to see so many students with high aspirations and ambition going to university this year.

'Students and their parents realise the benefits of going to University. The majority of careers where good incomes are guaranteed require graduate entry. I am extremely proud of the achievements of this year group.'

The college said there were a number of factors contributing to the record.

The outstanding A level results, with 49pc achieving A*-B top grades and 75pc A*-C grades, helped students secure their offers.

Staff worked hard encouraging students to be more ambitious and have high aspirations, with a poster campaign in classrooms and additional HE sessions throughout the year.

Paston's specialist tutors and HE mentors worked with students on the fine details of their applications and personal statements, providing support throughout the process.

Finally students were encouraged by a number of ex Paston students, who gave up their time on presentations in college, promoting the benefits of a university education, leading to a range of careers.

Despite negativity publicity surrounding fees and graduate employment in the media, the college said it was pleasing that Paston students could see the long term career and financial benefits of going to university.

Overall in the country university entrants passed 500,000 last year with 1.7 million offers made, and the economic recovery was also significantly boosting the graduate jobs market.