AMBITIOUS students from Robert Blake School received top mock degrees in a graduation ceremony at Exeter University.

Eight year 9 and 10 students attended lectures at the university during the spring term and wrote a 2,000 word essay about ocean acidification which they submitted to lecturers at the university.

Two of the students got first's for their efforts and attended a graduation ceremony at the university where they picked up their mock degrees.

The visit was part of the school's involvement in the Brilliant Club scholars programme which aims to widen access to top universities for outstanding pupils from non-selective state schools.

 Deb Loveridge, headteacher of Robert Blake School said: "We are so proud of our students.

"They are absolutely fantastic and are a credit to the school."