My name is Sophie, and I currently hold offers to study Veterinary Science at the University of Liverpool and the University of Surrey. To a huge extent, the young woman I am today has been shaped by my time in Sherfield’s Sixth Form.

From the start, it was clear that outstanding GCSE results would be crucial for my ambitions to study veterinary science. At Sherfield, I have been fully supported, and my teachers pushed me further, especially in the sciences, helping me build knowledge directly relevant to veterinary medicine—an advantage during university interviews.

Beyond academics, opportunities like the Leadership Skills Foundation's Leading a Project for Positive Change programme have been invaluable. My team designed and installed 20 bird boxes across the school site, working with pupils and organisations such as the Woodland Trust. This project strengthened my leadership, communication, and project management skills and gave me something distinctive to discuss at interviews.

Experiences beyond the classroom, such as the UK Three Peaks Challenge, have shaped me into a more resilient and confident person. Sherfield Sixth Form has prepared me not just to secure a place on a veterinary course, but to thrive in it and beyond. I feel ready to work professionally with clients, farmers, and animals, and I am grateful for the support that has helped me grow both academically and personally.

Coming from Hong Kong, I wanted more than just grades, I wanted to grow as a leader while staying academically challenged. Sherfield’s Sixth Form has given me exactly that, and I’ve loved every minute.

From A levels in History, Geography and Biology to law-focused work experience at Magic Circle firms, the school has supported me every step of the way. Trips, team-building challenges in Wales, public speaking competitions at Imperial College London, and co-curricular projects pushed me out of my comfort zone but they were also fun and unforgettable.

These experiences helped me become Head Prefect, explore my interests in law and finance, and connect with peers from around the world. Sherfield hasn’t just prepared me for university, it’s made me truly 25 Ready.

I’ve been at Sherfield almost my whole life, and it’s shaped me as much as it’s taught me. Sixth Form was when the focus shifted from grades to who I wanted to become, building leadership, confidence, organisation and teamwork.

Highlights? Organising a James Bond 'Casino Royale' formal evening, leading Raising and Giving Week, and designing Sherfield’s first Winter Ball. What started as a daunting idea turned into an annual tradition that’s still going strong - a legacy I’m extremely proud of. We raised over £5,000 for charity, had a lot of fun along the way, and being trusted to take charge and make things happen is what really defined my Sixth Form experience.

Those lessons helped me navigate university and apprenticeships with confidence. Today, I’m thriving as an Events Coordinator at Heckfield Place, creating experiences that matter - all thanks to the skills and self-belief Sherfield gave me.