Some of our top-performing students spoke of their hopes to work in the field of medicine in the wake of the global pandemic as they celebrate their outstanding GCSE results.

The high-achievers, all of whom were awarded GCSE grades 7-9, have chosen to take A-Level Chemistry, many in pursuit of their dreams to become doctors. 

Covid-19 and the NHS response to the national emergency has piqued the interest of students at the historic school, as demand for places to read medicine at university reached peak levels this week following a record-breaking year of A-Level results. 

A significant number of Dame Allan’s pupils will be following in their parents’ footsteps and are expected to flourish as they move into the Sixth Form at the private school in Fenham, which dates back to 1705.

Anya Holdsworth, who started in the school’s Nursery and today achieved a set of 7-9 grades, said the support she received throughout her GCSEs has given her the confidence with her A-Level choices to consider a possible a career as a GP or emergency doctor. 

“Both my parents are GPs and I’ve been able to do work experience in the field that has really inspired me,” added the 16-year-old, who plans to take Chemistry, Biology, Maths and an EPQ at A Level.

“I feel I’ve been so supported at the school and I’m looking forward to moving into the Sixth Form and doing all the things that are available to us ordinarily, that haven’t been possible over the past year or more.” 

Student Martina Rosher, who achieved grades 8 and 9 at GCSE and plans to take Chemistry, Maths and Psychology at A-Level, said: “There is a history of students who have studied medicine here at Dame Allan’s and gone on to do great things because the teaching and the resources are so good.”

Megan Paes, who achieved straight 9’s at GCSE, also praised Dame Allan’s for its support over the past 18 months: “The school is focused on every single individual and have been there to really help us as we’ve done our exams.” 

The 16-year-old, who plans to take A-Level Chemistry, Maths, Further Maths and either Biology or History, also hopes to follow the career path of her parents and become a GP. 

Will Scott, Principal at Dame Allan’s Schools, said the Coronavirus pandemic had driven a surge in the number of students wanting to work in the field of medicine.

“While this academic year has not been without its challenges for both staff and students, what it has done very positively is inspire many to consider their career paths, in light of a global medical emergency,” he said.

“We support and nurture the hopes and dreams of all our pupils and it is excellent to see so many high-achieving GCSE students taking Chemistry at A-Level, with a significant number looking to forge a career in medicine.

“GCSEs are a momentous time in a student’s journey and we encourage our upcoming Sixth Formers to remember that the world is their oyster, and opportunities will present themselves continually over the coming years.”