A teenage cyclist who was killed on her way to school was due to submit her application to Cambridge University later this month, her headteacher said last night.

Talented Larkmead School student Sarah Waterhouse, who achieved 4 As in her AS-Levels, died after a collision with a coach in Colwell Drive, Abingdon, on Monday.

Headteacher Chris Harris confirmed the 17-year-old student had been working on her application to Cambridge, where she wanted to study natural sciences.

She studied maths, physics, biology and chemistry at the sixth form.

Mr Harris said Sarah helped younger pupils with their reading and was a member of the school's science club. She was also close to completing her silver Duke of Edinburgh award, and played piano and trombone in the Wantage Silver band.

Her trombone teacher Pauline Davies said: "I've been giving Sarah trombone lessons for about four years or so. "She passed her grade three exam two years ago and we were working on her grade five pieces — an exam she was due to take in December, and would certainly have achieved a pass. "Sarah was very active, she was also working towards the Duke of Edinburgh awards, I'd just filled her book in for her.

"She was always so chatty and so enthusiastic about life, I can't believe we won't have her around any more, her poor family."

Ms Davies added that Sarah was a keen scuba diver.

Throughout the day yesterday, bunches of flowers were laid outside Abingdon police station, close to where the collision happened.

On one bunch of flowers was a note from Sarah's parents, which said: "To our much-loved daughter. You will always be with us, mum and dad."

Another note from Sam read: "I will always miss you Sarah and you'll always be on my mind."

A message from Hannah said: "RIP. Thank you so much for all your help in physics. Never forget you."

One note read: "You will be missed by many of us. Rest in peace, love Lauren."

A note from Vicky said: "Sarah, you will be greatly missed and were greatly loved by all who knew you."

A home-made card was attached to one bunch of flowers, from Larkmead School Year Seven pupils, saying: "Love from Ria. Thank you for helping me with my homework. Thank you for being my friend."

Another card, from Max, read: "You will be missed so much by everyone. To know that you had so much ahead of you makes it harder. Always in our hearts."

•Leave your tribute to Sarah,in the space available on this page.