WHEN Jessica Buckthorpe was born at 27 weeks, she was given a 40 per cent chance of survival ­— and if she did pull through doctors believed she would have learning difficulties.

But Jessica continued to prove the medics wrong and is now off to Bolton School sixth form on a bursary after getting top grades at Sharples School.

Jessica, aged 16, suffered two brain haemorrhages and was at risk of going blind.

Just bringing her home was a milestone in Jessica’s early life.

Now the teenager is fit and healthy ­— and determined.

Yesterday her proud family was at the school to watch her pick-up her results in which she achieved some of the highest grades possible.

She said: "I have worked really hard and Bolton School sixth form is a really good college."

To get the place at Bolton School ­— one of the best in the country ­— she had to take several challenging exams and undergo interviews to secure a place.

Jessica hopes to become a barrister after completing her education.

She hopes to study history and politics at university before doing a law conversion course.

"The hard work has been worth it, and I am really happy" she said, "The school have been really supportive."