Coleg y Cymoedd learner Jacob Bryan, 18, is one step closer to achieving his dream of becoming a volcanologist after landing a place to study Physical Geography at Portsmouth University.

Having grown up in a very active family who would regularly go out on hikes together, Jacob, from Ystrad Mynach, is passionate about the outside world and has spent the last 12 years being in the Scouts. He is now a Scout leader, helping to run weekly sessions for groups of 10-14 years olds. With skills in abseiling, archery and axe throwing, Jacob is also an explorer leader and will be taking part in the gold Duke of Edinburgh next week in Snowdonia, which will involve walking 42 miles.

Looking ahead, Jacob would like to work in research, studying volcanoes or meteorology before moving into teaching. With A*AC grades in his Geography, Maths and Physics A levels, he’s now on track to achieve his goals.

He said: “I’d love a career where I can travel the world, exploring and being outdoors which is why volcanology appeals to me so much. I also have loved working with young people as part of the Scouts so I’d eventually like to be a geography teacher and inspire the next generation.”