Never afraid to question the methods of even the world’s most renowned physicians, Matthew’s teachers describe him as one to watch.

With a fascination for the subject, his interest goes beyond lessons taught in the classroom, something that regularly keeps even his college lecturers on their toes.

It therefore comes as no surprise that today a string of A* grades in his A levels secured the Bede Sixth Form College student a place at the University of Oxford.

“I was feeling fine about my results today,” said Matthew. “I checked UCAS while walking into college, so I knew I had got what I needed.”

Gary Foster-Adams, Matthew’s physics lecturer at Bede is certain Matthew is destined for a career in the world of academia and research.

He said: “Matthew is so academic, he will come to me after lessons and say, ‘I’ve been thinking about this relativity thing’, and 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.”

Bringing home a clean-sweep of top marks in A level Maths, Further Maths and Physics, the 17-year-old, who has autism, is not one to shout about his achievements.

He said: “I was pleased to get an offer. I thought I stood a good chance, but you can’t be certain.”