James Mallyon

HIGH-FLYER James Mallyon is set to make his mark in the complex world of analytical chemistry, thanks to studying at Middlesbrough College.

The 18-year-old, from Linthorpe, was thrilled to have scooped an A and two Bs at A Level.

James, who previously attended Acklam Grange School in Middlesbrough, studied Biology, Chemistry and Maths at Middlesbrough College’s Sixth Form – MC6.

The hard-working youngster has earned himself a place at Durham University to study Chemistry, and has ambitions to work in analytical chemistry – the science of identifying and separating substances.

James was inspired by the subject after reading about the Miller-Urey experiment – a chemical experiment that explored the origins of life by simulating conditions on very early Earth.

At the college James was taught by Dr Richard “Doc” Spencer – a finalist in the Global Teacher Prize to find the world’s best teacher.

James said: “The support I got from Doc Spencer was fantastic. Doc is known as the dancing teacher because he introduces a lot of fun aspects to the class which really help you get to grips with harder concepts.

“For instance, he’s taught us the ‘DNA dance’ and the ‘miosis mamba’ – which has been great fun.”

James is also considering a career in teaching having taken part in the Middlesbrough College Summer School.

He helped to teach six to 14-year-olds about chemistry as part of a summer programme for children.