SUCCESSFUL A level students at Bolingbroke Academy in Runcorn are off to 17 different universities, four years after the school opened in Brookvale.

More than 50 sixth formers are looking forward to studying various degrees.

Executive principal John Rigby said: "We are very proud of the huge achievements of all our sixth formstudents.

"We are delighted for them as they are also excited about the opportunties that lie ahead of them.

"Education really can change the life chances of students of any age and that is what OBA is all about."

Daniella Stoba, who gained A* and AA grades is studying English literature and sociology in Leeds, where fellow student Stephanie Bowers won a place to read English and theatre studies after gaining two A*s and an AB.

Taylor Turnstead is off to study music in Liverpool, whilst Courtney Bennison will be reading criminology and sociology in Nottingham.

A dream has come true for 51-year-old Runcorn mum Christine McLean, who spent the past two years studying A levels. She is thrilled to have won a place at Liverpool Hope University to study English language and literature, a lifelong ambition.

Vice principal and head of sixth form Joan Mooney said: "Our A level students worked so hard to achieve such brilliant grades this year and we wish them all the success that they deserve at university or in employment.

"The tremendous efforts of the students and staff along with the support of parents and carers really paid off."

AS level students also achieved brilliant results.

Ellis Judge gained AAA in physics, maths and further maths, whilst Elliott Collins achieved AAB in French, English language and history.

Sean Boyd gained AABB in chemistry, physics, maths and English Literature.