The talented pair were selected as part of the CBA Gifted and Talented programme to study for the Extended Project qualification, and despite being marked against students one year older they walked away with excellent results.

For the qualification the students had to research and then write a 5,000 word essay on a subject of their choice.

Catherine wrote about the issue of homosexuality in the army and gained an A grade.

She said: "It was difficult as there was a huge amount of research to do, but it has definitely stood us in good stead for our A Level studies."

Charlotte focused on media representation, gained a B grade.

The pair were assisted in their studies by Assistant Vice Principal of Kirsty Farrar and Gifted and Talented Coordinator Claire Howsam.

Mrs Farrar said: "The girls have done exceptionally well and we put them forward as we knew their capabilities."

Catherine is now studying A Levels in History, Psychology and BTEC Business and Charlotte is studying A level, English, Media and History.