Harriet M
"Along with the compulsory subjects, at GCSE I studied History, Geography and Latin and I achieved nine grade 9’s and one grade 8 in my exams. At A Level I studied History, Classical Civilisation and Biology. I ended up receiving an A grade in all of these subjects. I also did an EPQ on the impacts of the Black Death on medieval society.
I am currently on a gap year, having finished my A Levels in 2023. While on my gap year, I have been working part-time at a local pub. In October 2024, however, I will be going to Oxford University to read History at Pembroke College.
A gap year was not initially my plan, but after receiving my results last August I decided to take one, and I couldn’t be more pleased with my decision. It has given me the time to develop as a person, and also to expand my interests outside of school through reading and experiences. I decided to apply to Oxford after visiting the university on an open day that I was encouraged to attend. I re-applied to Oxford on my gap year, having been rejected when I was in Year 13, and receiving my acceptance email made all the hard work feel amazing.
The family feel of the school was the reason that I decided to join Bishop Challoner in Year 7. The small nature of Challoner meant that friendships were formed across all year groups and this helped to create a vibrant school community that made the school an enjoyable place to learn. This community was especially special to me as my dad and brother both attended Bishop Challoner before me.
My favourite memory from my time at the school is my first Prize Giving in Year 7. My brother and I were both there receiving awards and the guest speaker was my Godfather. With my parents in the audience, it really encapsulated the feeling of community at the school.
I believe that without the small class sizes at the school, and therefore the close attention of the teachers, I would not have had the confidence to apply to Oxford. My top tip for current Bishop Challoner students would be to work hard and take advantage of every opportunity that a small school provides you." - Harriet M