A TEENAGER described as a "non-achiever" at school has finished in the top ten of UK students on his course.

Steven Green, 18, of Sandringham Road, Darwen, admitted he was not interested in school and was often in trouble with his teachers.

But two years on, Steven is the star pupil on his media course at Blackburn College after his exam results put him among the best media students in the country.

He got 95 per cent in his BTEC National Diploma Level 3 in Media which covers six different units, including both theory and practical assessments. This was a drastic improvement on his previous qualifications after he struggled to gain any GCSE grades over a 'C'.

College course leader Jamie Holman said: "It is a fantastic achievement. Steven is a remarkable success story and this just goes to prove that you cannot write people off at a young age."

During the course, working with his tutors, Steven got to grips with film production, video, radio, sound, graphics and multi media activity. He has also worked in the college's TV and recording centre with bands including The Smiths, Buzzcocks, StickBoy, The Pleasure and Manchester band The Doves.

But Steven, a keen footballer and Manchester United fan, has put all his success down his teachers.

He said: "They are very down to earth here at Blackburn College. They have encouraged me every step of the way.

"I hated school and I was often in trouble but college is more relaxed, more relevant and has pointed me in a direction I never really knew much about. Now I want to go to university, get a job in the music business and show everyone who doubted me that I can be a success."

Course leader Paul Natraj said he had no doubt Steven would be successful.

He said: "We have over 50 students here this year and Steven's approach and dedication has been exemplary.

"We have a reputation here which is growing in the music and media world. Many top recording companies are sounding us out and coming here to work with students like Steven.

"In turn, our students are getting a unique hands-on opportunity to really make their mark in life."