IT'S not just teenagers celebrating exam results this weekend.

Mature students across Hampshire had as much reason to celebrate at their 18-year-old peers as they gained places at prestigious universities like Manchester, Southampton and Kings College London through access courses.

Hayley Cool is one of them.

At the age of 29 she wanted to make some changes. Last week she took home brilliant results like so many other Peter Symonds students.

“At school, I didn't know what I wanted to do and subsequently didn't take advantage of the opportunities I had," she said. "I have worked in Nuclear Recruitment for 12 years and with some encouragement from my partner, Emma, I finally decided to follow my dreams of becoming a midwife.”

Staff and students also nominated Hayley as this year's star student.

The award goes to someone who not only achieves good results but helps other students.

She added: “I was completely blown away winning the star student award. It was very touching and the £50 book voucher will come in very handy for midwifery books when I start at Nottingham University. Enrolling on the access course was the best decision I have ever made, I never thought I would meet the entry requirements for university let alone pass the course with straight distinctions.

“It has been an incredible two years, both academically and personally. I would highly recommend the Peter Symonds access course to anyone wanting to further their education; the support and guidance you receive makes the whole process a lot less daunting.”