A Cirencester College student has been recently accepted onto the prestigious STEM Smart programme.

Karolina, who hopes to study at Cambridge University after A Levels, is studying biology, chemistry and maths.

STEM Smart is a 17-month programme, which aims to support students in developing confidence to apply to study physical or biological sciences, engineering or computer science at top universities.

Students on the programme, which started last week, will be assigned a mentor from Cambridge and receive regular advanced tuition to support their studies. They will also participate in online tutorials and workshops focused on making applications to competitive universities.

Students have the opportunity to attend a four-day residential in Cambridge towards the end of the programme.

On completion of the programme, they will receive an award that reflects their commitment to the programme and the STEM Smart work they have undertaken.

Karolina said: "I thought this looked like a great programme, and now that I have been accepted, I am realising just how helpful this will be for preparing for university and my future. When I found out my application was successful, I was so excited. I am really looking forward to the residential and meeting the Cambridge tutors."

Liam Nolan, biology lecturer at Cirencester College, said: "Karolina has started her A Levels with a very positive approach, and clearly wants to make the most of opportunities where available. It will really make a difference to a university application, and she will learn skills along the way which will be helpful for assessments and skills development. Well done, Karolina; this goes to show that making that extra effort can really pay off!"