A BUMPER crop of Ermysted's Grammar School boys could be off to Oxford or Cambridge this year.

A total of 13 sixth form students have been offered places at one of the two universities -

both of which feature in the top ten in the world - in courses ranging from engineering to medicine and ancient history to philosophy.

The offers, the highest number the Skipton school has had for some years, are the result of a gruelling process, including the early completion of personal statements and university application forms.

Each student has also had to take a subject specific entrance test and attended an interview at either Oxford or Cambridge.

The school's assistant head of sixth form, Dr Merrall said: “The application process, requiring considerable hard work and resilience, is a gruelling one. We are delighted for those whose efforts gained them the offers they deserved and hope that that all our students fulfil their aspirations for their lives after Ermysted’s. Our Year 13 students all face a long four months of preparation for their A level exams in the summer, the results of which will hopefully secure their places at their chosen universities or apprenticeships.”

Many other students have received offers from other top universities as well as highly attractive apprenticeship providers.