A former Higham Lane School student has scooped a top academic prize.

Emily Atkinson has been presented with a £1,000 scholarship at the University of Worcester in recognition of outstanding achievement throughout the 2014/15 academic year.

The third year Education Studies student said: ``I was so excited when I found out I had been awarded the scholarship. I spent a good couple of hours phoning friends and family to let them know.

``I worked very hard last year and it is great to know that the university is acknowledging and rewarding me for my efforts.''

The 21-year-old was presented with her prize by the university's Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive, Professor David Green, at a special ceremony (pictured below). Photograph courtesy of the Nuneaton News.