For Colby teenager Archie Veale, simply to pass his A-levels would have been an achievement, but to end up with two As and a B is testament to his hard work and dedication.

In 2014, Archie, who is now 19, was airlifted to Alder Hey children’s hospital in Liverpool suffering from multiple organ failure after contracting septicaemia.

He spent five months in hospital and has been recuperating ever since, but says his illness has influenced his choice of university course.

’I want to go to Salford University to study prosthetics and orthotics,’ he said.

’When I came out of hospital it left me with damage to my nerves and muscles so I’ve been doing physiotherapy five times a week through my A-levels.

’I use crutches to get around at the moment and that’s what sparked my interest in prosthetics.’

After leaving hospital he used a wheelchair for about 11 months before starting to walk around again using crutches and a type of ankle support that helps compensate for the nerve damage.

’I was fortunate to have a great support network and I’m definitely looking forward to starting my course,’ he said.

’I’m excited but a bit nervous as well.’

After finishing university, he says he would love to work with the paralympic team or with children who are born with defects.

’It would be nice to do something that would help to improve their quality of life.

’I particularly enjoy the problem-solving aspect of it. I’d also like to actually work for Alder Hey Hospital - after all, they are the hospital that saved my life,’ he said.

Archie lost an academic year because of his illness, returning to school once he was well enough to complete his GCSEs along with one A-level in product design.

He then studied further A-levels in maths and geography. He also praised his teachers who had spent extra time helping him through the work.

’I think it’s a great relief to both me and my parents,’ he added.

’Not knowing if I was going to survive three years ago to getting my A-levels now.’