A Newcastle teenager has overcome her dyslexia diagnosis to celebrate excellent GCSE results today – while also edging closer to a black belt in karate.

Maya Jensen, 16, achieved nine GCSEs including three grade 8s and two 7s – the equivalent of top A* and A grades – at Dame Allan’s Schools this morning, and will now move into the Sixth Form to study A Level art, business studies and psychology.

Maya joined Dame Allan’s in Year 7, attracted by its strong pastoral support, after being diagnosed with dyslexia. “I’ve felt understood and recognised; the learning support I received in my first years was invaluable,” she said. “To have taken my English GCSE without requiring any extra time, and with much more confidence, felt amazing.”

She now serves as a SEND Ambassador – a pupil-led programme that empowers young people to have a voice in shaping how the school approaches special educational needs and disability (SEND). Ambassadors meet regularly to discuss equality and inclusion, and to plan awareness events.

Maya said: “Being part of the SEND Ambassador programme has given me a greater understanding of other neurodiversities aside from dyslexia. I enjoy sharing information across the school and being there for anyone who needs to talk. Being offered this role was a huge compliment.”

Outside the classroom, Maya has been a keen martial artist since the age of five and trains weekly at Newcastle Shotokai Karate Club. She holds two black tags and is just one grading away from her black belt, which she hopes to achieve later this year.

Earlier this summer, Maya undertook work experience with LEGO in London, shadowing the company’s HR director and gaining insight into careers across marketing, HR and social responsibility. She hopes to pursue a career in marketing in the future.

Will Scott, Principal at Dame Allan’s Schools, said: “Maya’s story reflects two things that matter deeply here: the strength of the support we provide and the determination of our pupils to use that support to excel. She has combined resilience in overcoming barriers with a commitment to achieving at the highest level, both academically and beyond the classroom.”