A mathematics and statistics student in the Faculty of Science and Technology at Lancaster University has been rewarded a prestigious prize for high achieving female students studying science and STEM-related subjects.

Former Barnsley Sixth Form College student Ella Spence has been awarded a Women into Science (2018) accolade, and £600, by Ede & Ravenscroft, who supply robes for Lancaster University students during graduation.

The prize aims to draw upon the success of females in science subjects by showcasing their outstanding academic performance.

Ella Spence, who studies for a BSc (Hons) Mathematics degree at Lancaster University, said: “I am really pleased to win this award as it reflects the hard work I put into my degree and motivates me further to continue making myself and my family proud.

“Lancaster University instantly attracted me after looking around various universities in England, this was because I liked the size of the campus and the fact that it is a top ten university.

“Throughout my degree, I enjoy the workshops most as it provides me with an opportunity to openly discuss questions asked in the lecture with my peers and tutor.

“After I have completed my degree, I want to become an actuary as it is a profession which is predominantly numerical-based and is the type of role I aspire to be in to put my skills into practice.”

The Head of Department for Mathematics and Statistics at Lancaster University, Dr Alexander Belton, added: “I am delighted to see these awards recognise Ella’s excellent academic performance.

“She is an outstanding student who is flourishing within the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at Lancaster University.”