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Keeping even his college lecturers on their toes, Bede Sixth Form College student, Matthew, is described as “one to watch”.

Never afraid to question the methods of even the world’s most renowned physicians, his physics teacher, Gary Foster-Adams, is certain the 17-year-old is made for the world of academia and research.

Now, with an offer to study physics at the University of Oxford, it looks like Matthew could be right on track.

But not one to shout about his achievements, he simply said: “I was relieved to get an offer. I thought I stood a good chance, but you can’t be certain.”

As for his family, he added: “They have been largely excited by it, probably more than me.”

Currently studying A level Maths, Further Maths and Physics at Bede, Matthew, who has autism, excels in his studies.

Gary said: “He is so academic, he will come to me after lessons and say, ‘I’ve been thinking about this relativity thing’, it will be something that isn’t even covered on the course.  He is so interested in these things and is willing to challenge the methods of even the biggest names in physics history.”

And enjoying a challenge, finding the answer to a problem is something that comes easy to Matthew. No surprise during his time at Bede, he has taken part in national and international contests, achieving a high gold award and best in college in the Senior Mathematical Challenge, and certificates of merit in the Mathematical Olympiad and the Math Kangaroo.

With a laugh, his physics tutor added: “There are times when even I struggle to keep up with him at maths and I was top of the class at college. I’m often doing 100 miles an hour to keep a step ahead.”

Optimistic he can secure the grades he needs this summer, Matthew is now looking forward to meeting the challenges Oxford has to offer.

His maths and further maths teacher at Bede, Robert Lamb, said: “It has been really good seeing him develop, he is so much more confident now.”

Matthew is one of two Bede Sixth Form College students to receive an Oxbridge offer this year, with a second student receiving an offer from the University of Cambridge.

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