RECORD-BREAKING numbers of students are applying to Petroc for courses starting this September.

The college is preparing for its biggest ever intake of teenagers at its Barnstaple and Tiverton campuses.

And the bumper crop of school leavers includes a big rise in the number of science students — applications for A-levels in chemistry, physics and biology are up by more than 20 per cent.

"Applications for all of our academic and vocational courses are rising daily," said director for curriculum and innovation Huw Davies. "I am delighted that so many students are choosing Petroc."

Formerly known as East and North Devon colleges, Petroc's Tiverton campus is on Bolham Road. Prospective students can apply online for Petroc's full-time courses starting this September by visiting www.petroc.ac.uk.