STUDENTS from Ruthin have taken a step closer to turning their ‘dreams’ into reality after being invited to two of the world’s most prestigious universities.

Sam Evans and Elen Edwards, year 12 students at Ysgol Brynhyfryd, have been quietly revising months ahead of their summer exams, however they were given a shock after being offered taster placements at Oxford and Cambridge University.

Elen gained a three-day summer school placement to study biology in Oxford after writing an essay explaining why she enjoys the subject. The summer school gives students the chance to live, study and dine at the university while being taught by world-leading lecturers.

Elen, who wants to study biochemistry at degree level, said: “It has been my dream for many years to go to Oxford and now, through hard work and the fantastic support of the sixth form and staff, I can take these steps to fulfilling my dream!”

Sam attended the residential taster course offered by Magdalen College, Cambridge University in March this year. He said the experience was “amazing”, adding: “I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and I’m looking forward to fulfilling my ambition of attending university!”

Manon Wilkinson, head of sixth form at Ysgol Brynhyfryd said: “We are so very proud of all our sixth formers; they are so dedicated to achieving the very best they can. They have our utmost respect and support here at Brynhyfryd to achieve their goals and ambitions.

“Well done to all our sixth formers and good luck to them at this very challenging exam time!”