Introduction
I studied at The High Arcal School from 2013 to 2018, completing my GCSEs and developing a strong foundation across a wide range of subjects. Alongside the core curriculum, I was able to choose options that matched my interests – particularly in ICT and History, which quickly became personal favourites.
ICT has always been my favourite subject, as well as a passion outside of school. I love the practical, hands-on nature of the subject and the problem-solving involved. I was proud to achieve an A* – the highest possible grade at the time, and even achieved the school’s record for highest number of marks. History was a close second, where I earned a Grade 8. Both subjects remained a strong passion of mine, and I continued to study them further at A-Level at Halesowen College.
GCSE Results:
- English Language: Grade 9
- English Literature: Grade 6
- English Speaking (Spoken Language Endorsement): Distinction*
- Mathematics: Grade 6
- Biology: Grade 8
- Chemistry: Grade 5
- Physics: Grade 6
- ICT: A*
- History: Grade 8
- Geography: Grade 7
Beyond the Classroom
My time at High Arcal was about more than just academics – I made the most of the opportunities available, getting involved in school life wherever I could. Whether it was school trips, overnight residentials, or leadership roles, I always tried to contribute and grow beyond the curriculum.
The SAFE Team
I was a founding member of The SAFE Team in 2014 – a student-led group set up with the Head of Computing to raise awareness of e-Safety across the school. We created educational content, ran awareness campaigns, and even took part in a local council-wide event to showcase our work.
In Year 9, I began designing the team’s website and continued to maintain and update it even after leaving the school. By Year 11, I had progressed to coordinator of the team, overseeing all of its activities.
ICT Cover Teacher
During my time in Year 11, my IT teacher gave me the opportunity to plan and deliver a full IT lesson to my peers. It was a great experience that received positive feedback from both students and staff – and helped to reinforce my passion for technology and teaching.
School Photographer
In Years 10 and 11, I was appointed School Photographer by the Deputy Headteacher. I was responsible for photographing a wide range of school events, as well as taking promotional shots of the school site. My work was regularly used on the school’s website, social media, and even featured in local press coverage.
Year 11 Leavers Coordinator
As part of my role as Student President, I took the lead on organising all aspects of the Year 11 leavers’ hoodies and yearbook. This included gathering student feedback, designing the products, coordinating with suppliers, managing orders and payments, and creating digital submission tools for content. I also worked directly within the yearbook content management system to compile everything. The end result was very well received by both students and staff.
Student Vice President
Serving as Student Vice President (the equivalent of Deputy Head Boy), I supported the leadership of the student council. I helped gather and represent student feedback, and played an active role in organising school events – including helping to run our annual Halloween Disco.