A work experience programme set up by a Newham University Hospital doctor has seen students receive offers to study medicine at Oxford and Cambridge.

In 2014, Dr Hafiz Syed set up the programme for sixth formers at nearby Brampton Manor Academy.

This year, more than 20 students who were on the scheme received offers to study medicine, including one at Oxford and one at Cambridge.

The programme lasts three weeks, and allows 30 teenagers to shadow clinicians, sit in on lectures with junior doctors, and receive interview tips.

Dr Syed said: “I’m doing this to give these children a glimpse of what it’s really like to be a doctor that’s outside of the platform set by television or parents.”

Sam Dobin, head of sixth form at Brampton Manor, said: “Dr Syed’s programme has had a transformative impact on our students.

“The high quality work placements provide students with an invaluable insight into what life is really like as a doctor, whilst the support offered through the lectures and interview preparation means the students are confident in making applications.”