Two teenagers have accepted offers to attend some of the country’s most critically acclaimed performing arts colleges.

Whitehaven born Keenan Fowler and Chloe Fawcett are both on their way to London this September to embark on three-year degree courses.

Having received five offers from the top performing arts collages in the country, Keenan, 17 said he felt Italia Conti was the one for him.

He said: “I was extremely surprised to get offers from all five colleges I applied for. Italia Conti was my top choice as it just felt like the right fit for me. I am looking forward to starting my new life in London this September and look forward to seeing what the future holds.”

Italia Conti well-known alumni include Naomi Campbell, Layton Williams, Pixie Lott, Martine McCutcheon, Russell Brand and Sam Tutty.

Chloe, 18, received offers for a BA (Hons) in Musical Theatre and Professional Dance from Bird College and Performers College, she said: “I’m so unbelievably pleased with my offers, and I can’t thank the people who have supported me enough. I’m so excited to start my next chapter but will most definitely be back home to visit and see the Step By Step team.

Chloe who attended West Lakes Academy also had a degree offer from Emil Dale Academy and a recall from Italia Conti but had already accepted Bird College and had her heart set on that, she added: “I can’t wait to start my Musical Theatre training and I’ve already kickstarted this with having the amazing opportunity to work with Ashley Luke Lloyd and other industry professionals.”

Both Bird College and Performers College have fantastic stories of success and student destinations, with many becoming regular faces on the West End, and countless film and TV credits.

Kennan and Chloe both attended West Cumbria’s Step By Step School Of Dance and were involved in the school’s sell-out dance gala in May for the last time, they credited Miss Joanne Dougan who has taught them collectively for many years, Chloe since she was four and Keenan for the past seven years.

Miss Joanne said: “‘We are so proud of Chloe and Keenan and all they have achieved. They have worked incredibly hard throughout their time as Step-By-Step pupils, both showing a huge amount of talent and determination to do well in everything they have been involved with."