ABIGAIL Morgan is off to Sheffield University to help break the mould by becoming a female civil engineer with the aid of a £36,000 scholarship from the James Dyson Foundation.

The 18-year-old Malmesbury School student, who was awarded the coveted scholarship four months ago, has now achieved the exam results she required for a leading university of her choice.

Abigail, whose ambition is to follow in the footsteps of grandfather by becoming an engineer, attained an A* in maths and two As in further maths and physics.

The scholarship will enable her to focus of her studies over the next four years without having to worry about student debt.

Her choice of career will also hopefully allow her to break into what is traditionally a male dominated profession.

She said: “I was very nervous about my results – it’s such a relief that they have gone so well. I don’t know what to do with myself.

“I am very excited about going to Sheffield and becoming a civil engineer.

“The James Dyson Foundation scholarship means that I will be able to work hard and achieve my ambitions, without being distracted by financial worries.”

Abigail was one of 17 Malmesbury School A-level students who applied for the annual scholarship to help them through university.

Each of the students, whose aspirations ranged from science and technology to engineering and product design, were asked to explain what inspired them about the degree they had chosen, as well as write 300 words about their favourite invention.

Abigail’s choice of invention was Brazilian Alfredo Moser’s zero electricity light, which uses the natural phenomenon of refraction to provide illumination.

James Dyson said: “It’s clear Abigail has a real interest in engineering and the problems it can solve, and I’m sure she will become an excellent engineer.”

Malmesbury School headteacher Tim Gilson said: “As a specialist maths and science school we understand the importance of these subjects as the foundation for challenging careers in science and engineering – but getting students to share our enthusiasm isn’t always easy.

“Our relationship with the James Dyson Foundation is invaluable; raising the profile of these subjects and helping to bring engineering to life.”