A Birmingham student is preparing to make history after securing a scholarship to attend one of the UK’s most prestigious schools.

Yusuif Ahmed, 16, is believed to be the first person of Sudanese descent to attend Eton College. The teenager, who lives in Weoley Castle and previously attended Lift Four Dwellings Secondary School in Quinton, was awarded a conditional place after applying for Eton’s George Orwell Award.

The scholarship provides a fully funded place for boys who may otherwise not have had the opportunity to attend the independent school. Yusuif discovered the scheme last year and decided to put himself forward for consideration, telling himself "the worst they can say is no".

His application resulted in a lengthy selection process, which saw him travel to Eton’s campus to complete assessments in maths, English and aptitude, followed by three interviews.

When the time came to receive his acceptance letter, Yusuif initially thought the news was a rejection. However, after reading the letter properly and discovering that he had been successful, he ran into the school corridor screaming with joy.

He described the news as "surreal", particularly given the significance of the opportunity for both himself and his family.

Yusuif’s place was conditional on the results of his GCSE examinations, meaning he needed to achieve the required grades before securing his place at Eton. He went on to achieve outstanding results, including grade 9s in maths, biology, chemistry and physics. From September, the 16-year-old will study maths, geography, physics and economics at Eton, beginning a new stage of his education at the historic Berkshire school.

Speaking about the opportunity, Yusuif said:

"It's a big honour for me, my family and my country."

"I hope it shows that anything can happen and that education really can change your life."

Yusuif’s journey also carries personal significance, with his father having moved to the UK from Sudan in 2002. His success comes after years of education in Birmingham and represents a significant achievement for his family.

The George Orwell Award is designed to provide students attending state schools with access to what Eton describes as a "transformative educational experience". The scholarship can be awarded to up to 14 students each year and is intended to provide a life-changing opportunity to boys who might otherwise be unable to attend the school.

Yusuif’s former school has celebrated his achievement, with principal Claire Stoneman recalling her reaction when she was asked to provide a reference for his Eton application. Stoneman said her "jaw dropped" when she discovered where Yusuif was applying.

"Yusuif is a remarkable young man," Stoneman said.

"He is incredibly bright and has a real thirst for knowledge, but what makes him so special is how fully he immerses himself in school life and the opportunities around him.

"He is ambitious, articulate and incredibly personable, and we are absolutely thrilled for him."

With his GCSE results now securing his place, Yusuif is set to begin life at Eton in September, taking with him the support of his family and former teachers as he embarks on what could become a significant milestone in the school’s history.