Pupils hoping for early inspiration four years before they leave school visited Cambridge University this week.

Children from two Epping Forest schools, Debden Park High School in Loughton and King Harold Academy in Waltham Abbey, visited Emmanuel College to learn about university life and speak to students.

Debden Park’s 15 pupils and 13 from King Harold found out about how finances can be managed and the A Level choices they would need for degree subjects of their choice.

The trip was aimed at pupils in year 10 and those who won the head teacher’s award last year.

Cambridge University delegates will visit Debden Park in October to support sixth form students writing UCAS applications.

Teacher John Shepley said: “Over the last three years we have worked hard and seen sustained rises in the outcomes for our students, particularly those at the top end.

“The work we have done has really paid off.

“Our last results saw almost a quarter of students achieve five or more A/ A*.

“The Cambridge programme, amongst the others we run, is one of a number of schemes which aim to get our students in the best universities in the world.”