A Devon teenager has become the youngest person to pass two tough journalism exams at the same time.

Daniel Rockett, (17), passed the National Council for the Training of Journalists preliminary exams in journalism and handout which are normally taken by graduates.

He sat the papers as a sixth form student at Coombeshead College, Newton Abbot, where students can study for the professional exams from the age of 16.

It is his dream to make it to the top in the world of newspapers and his interest was kindled when he became involved in Coombesheadlines, the half-termly newspaper of Coombeshead College.

He said: “I would like to be an editor one day. I am especially interested in sports journalism. I was really spurred on when I was made the newspaper’s sports editor.”

Daniel, (left), has just returned from a month in South Africa where he worked with fellow students at one of Coombeshead’s twin schools – the Welsh Senior Secondary School in Qumbu in the Eastern Cape.

The budding journalist is now working on a four-page “Africa special” for Coombeshead’s International Links newspaper which is sent all over the world.

“Living and working in Africa was an incredible and moving experience. I want to make the newspaper reflect that,” said Daniel.

Head of journalism Sue White said she was delighted at Daniel’s success.

She said: “I have taught the youngest students to pass either the handout or journalism exam, but Daniel is the first to pass both at the same time.”

Five of his fellow students passed the handout exam. They were Jimmy Armstrong, Daniel Bulman, Paul Burton, Phillie Espley and Kevin Marshall.