AN EastEnders star has given an inspiring talk to sixth formers.

Ellen Thomas, who plays Grace Olubunmi in the BBC One soap, visited students in the BeauSandVer consortium last week to give them an insight into the world of TV and film.

In her uplifting talk she also told the pupils to pursue their dreams and value the power of their brains.

Ellen, who was also the fearsome Liz Webb in the Channel 4 hit Teachers, was joined by her sister Emma who spoke about script editing and working on films such as The Boat that Rocked.

The event was part of the Engaging Minds series of talks organised by business studies teacher Mrs Brando.