A 17-year-old boy from Orford was invited to an online celebration of some of the brightest young minds in the region thanks to his competition essay on the theories of quantum mechanics.

Thomas Shaw, who studies A-Level Biology, Chemistry and Maths, entered his 2,000-word essay on the fundamental theory in physics in the Pembroke North Essay competition

The competition is run by Pembroke College in Oxford, aiming to support and inspire the next generation of undergraduates as they consider their university choices.

Thomas said: “I found the event interesting and I particularly enjoyed being able to ask questions to students about life on campus within the current COVID-19 restrictions.

“Although I didn’t win the prize I was able to further develop my writing style in anticipation of completing my Extended Project as well as gain a deeper understanding about quantum mechanics.”

The former Cardinal Newman RC School pupil entered the competition over summer after hearing about it through Priestley College’s Graduate programme, which is designed to improve students’ chances of securing places at the UK’s top universities.

Ian Hughes, who helps Priestley students who are aiming for the most competitive universities, said Thomas was on his way to achieve his goal of studying Chemistry at Oxford.

He said: “The dedication, knowledge and skills he has shown in producing this essay proves he has the calibre to achieve whatever he sets his heart on.”

All participants received feedback from the postgraduates who marked their essays.

The online celebration covered Oxford admissions as well as a lecture from Peter Claus, who is the access fellow at Pembroke, discussing the history of Eugenics.

Priestley College is part of The Challenge Academy Trust in Warrington, offering a mix of A-Levels and vocational options and soon to be one of the first colleges in the country to offer T-Levels.

Priestly was also the first sixth form college in the country to be awarded STEM assured status, meaning it provides some of the best Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths education in the country.