Weston College student Emily Watkins, aged 16, is heading to Denmark next month to compete in an international water polo tournament.

Emily, who studies sport at the college, is a member of the England Talent Squad. She qualified to represent England in the EU Nations Cup for Women U17, which will take place this weekend at the University of Southern Denmark.

The tournament will showcase some of the best female under-17 water polo talents from eight different countries and Emily is hoping it is just another rung on the ladder, as she aims to become professional.

She said: “I am very proud and excited to be representing England in a sport I love.

“This is the first step to becoming an athlete, I can’t wait.”

Paul Taylor, sports development and performance manager at the college, said: “It’s fantastic to see another young athlete come through the college.

“This opportunity is indicative of Emily’s hard work and commitment and we are very proud of her.”

The Weston College Academy of Sport allows aspiring sportsmen and women to combine their academic or vocational studies with participation in sporting activities at local, regional and national levels, harnessing their skills and improving them.