TOP of the class at Holy Cross was a Radcliffe teenager who scooped four A*s and one A grade.

Danielle Woods, of Claydon Drive, will trade revision books for a stethoscope as she begins a degree in medicine at the University of Manchester this September.

The 18-year-old was awarded A*s in biology, chemistry, maths and the extended project qualification (EPQ) and gained an A in critical thinking.

She said: “I wanted to go into a career where I could have an impact on people. I am interested by surgery, but at the moment I am not sure which element of medicine I want to follow.

“I was so nervous this morning and woke up at six o’clock to get my results. Now I’m really excited to start uni.”

There will be no emotional goodbyes this September for Whitefield best friends Stephanie McGuire and Hannah Fitton, after both secured the grades they needed to attend Oxford University.

The 18-year-olds scooped four A*s and two As between them with Stephanie set to read theology at Mansfield college and Hannah beginning a degree in biological sciences at St John’s.

“We were both so happy for each other and are relieved to have the grades we need,” said Stephanie, who achieved A*s in English literature and religious education and an A in music. “I did not expect to do as well as I did. It was such a shock.”

Hannah, who got A*s in biology and maths and an A in chemistry, added: “I wanted to do something which I enjoy, and then afterwards I can look for a worthwhile job. When I woke up I didn’t want to check my results, so I’m glad I forced myself to look!”

Kieran Vail will start at St Hilda’s College, Oxford, in September to study biological sciences, after gaining two A*s in biology and maths, and one A in chemistry.

Kieran, of Bury Road, Radcliffe, said; “I want to get into medicine after university, or maybe medical law. It was a shock, I was really nervous.”

Ben Stott will also study biological sciences, but at Keble College, Oxford, after achieving one A* and three A’s.

Ben, of Ainsworth Road, Radcliffe, said: “Biological sciences is the study of life, and I have really enjoyed the subjects throughout school so I hope it will be as good at university.”

David Peters is bucking the biological sciences trend and will read maths at Mansfield College, Oxford, after gaining three A* grades and two A grades.

David, of Brandlesholme Road, and a former pupil at St Gabriel’s RC High, said: “The college has a lot of pupils from state schools there, so I hope to settle in well.”