Rebecca Orr and John Paul, students at Ellesmere's Sixth Form have been offered places at Cambridge and Oxford respectively. Rebecca is an aspiring historian and a shining example of how the development and focus on the individual at the school helped her achieve a place at Cambridge University. John, a young musician with exceptional potential, has set his sights on studying music at Oxford University.
Rebecca, came to the Sixth Form from the Lakelands School with a passion for History and an impressive set of GCSE results - 8 A*, 2 As and an A in Critical Thinking at AS-level. When introduced to Ellesmere she soon realised that the school far exceeded other Sixth Forms she had seen, particularly with the combination of opportunities in academics, sports and the arts. She was further convinced by the scholarships and bursaries that were available to her and to other local students. "When I visited Ellesmere for an open day I spoke to a number of teachers who talked passionately about the opportunities available to students at the College. I was very impressed with what they had to say and decided, then and there, that I wanted to come here" explained Rebecca.
John has an incredible range of music qualifications that enable him to play the Cello, Piano and Guitar to an exceptionally high standard. He joined Ellesmere at the age of 10 in Lower School, where he soon decided that his goal in life was to become a composer. He couldn't have been more at home, as music is central to life at Ellesmere. John says, "It's a very friendly school and the atmosphere is fantastic, there are so many opportunities to perform as a musician at every level. Teachers are committed to develop each individual student and encourage you to participate in as many activities as possible, making your time here so memorable". John, who draws inspiration from celebrated composers such as Dmitry Shostakovich and Edward Elgar, was keen to study Music at Oxford, "When I went down to meet Dr Roger Allen at the University I was so impressed with him and the course and I knew that Oxford would be my first choice University" .
Rebecca chose to study the International Baccalaureate, which is an academically challenging and balanced programme that prepares students, aged 16 to 19, for success at University and life beyond. The IB has a reputation for being demanding but very rewarding. It offers a broader programme of study than A levels, and encourages students to think independently and to explore their creativity. It is designed to address the intellectual, social, emotional and physical well-being of students. Rebecca Said "The International Baccalaureate was the best option for me; I was looking for a broader programme of study that is very well respected by universities. Once I started attending UCAS events and University presentations I knew that I had made the right decision and I am really looking forward to studying at Cambridge University"
4th February 2013 Back to News