THREE talented musicians at Birchwood College have secured places at a prestigious music school.

Year 13 pupils Hayden Astley, James Harper and Nathan Peers are now looking forward to studying BMus (Hons) in popular music at the Royal Northern College of Music.

Each student will focus on their own specialist area of musical study as part of the four-year course in Manchester.

Hayden will study guitar, James will focus on bass while Nathan will hone his skills on the drums.

Carol Walsh, head of performing arts, said she is proud of the three students’ achievements.

She added: “This is a stunning achievement given the fierce competition that the boys faced during the application and process.

“To get one student in the Royal Northern College of Music would have been fantastic but to have all three students successfully gain a place is absolutely phenomenal.

“In the whole of my career I can’t remember being so proud.

“All three students have worked incredibly hard and thoroughly deserve their success.”

During the course, the students will have the chance to go on placement with music professionals from all over the world.

After their places were confirmed, the three students thanked staff for ‘launching them on the wonderful road to success’.

A Birchwood College open evening will be held on January 18 from 6pm to 8pm.