Grace (pictured with Professor Jones) comfortably made the grades to study on the BA (Hons) Primary Education course with Qualified Teacher Status at Staffordshire University and received a personal congratulations from University Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Professor Martin Jones.

“I can now think about the future and how I can go into schools and help other children to learn,” said Grace – who achieved an A in Psychology and Bs in her English and Sociology A-levels.

More than 40 per cent of students on Staffordshire University’s full time undergraduate degrees are from Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.

Professor Jones said: “It was a privilege to be invited next door to Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College to witness some of their high performing students receive their results. We’re delighted to be a first-choice university for so many students from our local area. We play a vital role in nurturing local talent and developing the knowledge and skills to help people from our communities to achieve their ambitions. Today is a milestone in their personal journeys and we look forward to welcoming them in September.”

Rox Warburton is dreaming of a career in the performing arts after gaining a place at Staffordshire University.

The 18-year-old, from Trentham, will be studying BA (Hons) Acting for Stage and Screen, and said: “From a young age, I’ve always enjoyed theatre and TV. I’ve enjoyed getting immersed in it.

“With the university course, I’ll get to do screen work as well. It’s very practical. You get lots of options. I went to an Open Day at the university and the staff seemed really nice.”

Rox picked up a BTEC in Psychology (merit) and A-levels in Criminology (A) and Theatres Studies (C) at Newcastle College today. The teenager hopes to eventually go into the acting or film world for a career.

“I just love the idea of being in a superheroes movie, especially Marvel,” added Rox.

Dilara Altindas will be studying BA (Hons) Concept Art for Games and Film at Staffordshire University. She was delighted to get triple distinction* in her BTEC extended diploma in Animation, Concept Art and Games Design at Newcastle College.

The 18-year-old, from Tunstall, said: ” I’ve always wanted to do something with art, but more digitally than oil paints and fine art.”

Dilara was drawn to Staffordshire University after attending an Open Day and says: “I went to a lot of other universities, and they had rooms shared by other courses. At Staffs, it’s different. You get two screens and a drawing tablet, which is amazing. The lecturers involve themselves more in their own artwork. They are going to teach you so, at the end of the day, you want them to be good.”

Dilara, who was also attracted to the course as it opens up lots of job opportunities, adds: “For a career, I really want to work in games or film.”

Staffordshire University’s Pro Vice Chancellor – Academic, Professor Annabel Kiernan added: “We want to congratulate all students from our local schools and colleges who have got the grades to get on to their courses. We also want people to know that Clearing is a fantastic opportunity for people who haven’t yet secured their university place to do so, and we welcome applications from students with a wide variety of qualifications, skills and experiences.”

“We do everything we can to give students an excellent academic student experience and to support them in their career aspirations.

“Added to that, our campuses are packed with exciting things to do, places to go and people to meet. And we’re continuing to invest millions of pounds in our facilities to make the student experience even better.”