I have always been inquisitive and enjoy learning new things - I was accepted into MENSA at the age of four.
I started playing chess at the age of seven, and have represented England in the past few years. Most recently, I participated in the UK Chess Challenge Terafinal U18 category, which only 12 people in the UK qualified for.
I have a passion for playing the piano, and am currently working towards taking my grade 8 exam outside of school.
In school I frequently take part in competitions - quite recently, I won the LONZA junior scientist of the year award. This culminated in a presentation about genetic engineering in front of a panel of judges from LONZA and our headteacher Dr Gillespie. In the recent year 11 mock exams, I achieved a 72 capped points score, and am predicted to get all 9s in my GCSEs.
I achieved a gold award in the British Physics Online Olympiad.
I was also invited to the UK Maths Trust Summer School for coming in the top 1.5% in the country in the 2024 intermediate maths challenge.
The best thing about BGS is that it prepares you for life beyond secondary school. One way in which this is achieved is through the passionate way that the teachers with exceptional subject knowledge convey their lessons, equipping you with everything you need to know when you move on to further studies or the world of work. Additionally, there are numerous opportunities to develop soft skills like leadership: you can join school council when you start in year 7, and as you move into higher years, you can help run clubs and in the sixth form you can take on a responsibility like being a prefect. Another thing that BGS can give you is confidence - whether it's through performing at music concerts, drama productions or the dance show, or the way that the teachers are approachable so you feel comfortable asking for help. BGS also provides students with many ways to explore and investigate future careers through regular assemblies from people in industry, career workshops and appointments with the career adviser. Most importantly to me, BGS motivates students to be the best person they can be. BGS promotes competitions both inside and outside of school, and honours its students' achievements. This is really encouraging, because it motivates students to always try to be the best that they can.
After my GCSEs, I plan to return to BGS to study Physics, Chemistry, Maths & Further Maths. After this, I would like to go to university, but I don't yet know exactly what I want to study. I am considering computer science or something related to physics/chemistry. However, I enjoy debating and public speaking, meaning that a career in law is also an option to me.
Secondary school is very different to primary school. There's so much to take in that is is overwhelming for everyone, but don't let this keep you from asking anything and everything. Get involved with as much as you can. Year 7 and 8 is the perfect time to explore everything BGS offers, so when you start the GCSE course in year 9, you can focus on your studies and the extra-curricular activities that you enjoy. It might seem daunting, and you will probably feel more comfortable hiding away from everything new, but as soon as you climb over that wall confining you to your comfort zone, you won't regret it!