A STUDENT who plans to study medicine at Oxford University has been recognised for her outstanding commitment to learning.

Isabella Collins from Tredegar was named 16-19 Programme Learner of the Year at the Universities Heads of the Valleys Institute (UHOVI) awards among her fellow students on bite-sized courses, studying for Foundation Degrees and postgraduate qualifications.

The former Brynmawr Foundation School pupil, 18, who took a module on pathology and the treatment of disease at Blaenau Gwent Learning Zone alongside her A-levels, was described as “a truly exceptional and talented student”, having impressed tutors with her willingness to learn.

She has since been offered a place at Oxford University to study medicine, where she hopes to start in September.

Isabella said: “I was shoc-ked, but so happy to find out I’d won an award. I thoroughly enjoyed the programme as it gave me a real advantage applying to different universities. During my interviews, I told them about the course and how it had given me a deeper understanding of medical issues.

“I’d recommend it to absolutely anyone who is thinking of higher education. It puts you at an advantage straight away, and I believe it’s helped me on my way to becoming a doctor.”

Other winners, who received their awards from scientist and TV presenter, Dr Rhys Jones, included Emily Jones from Tredegar, Tracey Parker, who works at Blackwood Community College, and University of South Wales lecturer Mark Langweiler.

Part of the University of South Wales, UHOVI provides opportunities to study higher education courses across the Valleys region in partnership with further education colleges, businesses, councils and work places.