The UCL Academy celebrates very successful A Level results

Students have excelled in their A Levels at the Academy this year, achieving excellent grades in some of the most challenging subjects, such as Maths, Further Maths and the Sciences; an impressive 20.3% of the grades awarded in the A*- A bracket and 14 students were awarded straight A/A*s. Small cohorts also performed exceptionally well across all five languages, including Mandarin. Art and Sociology continued the theme with achievements that were equally impressive to those of previous years.

The Academy is immeasurably proud of our students who have confirmed their places on various degree courses at some of the country’s most prestigious universities, including our sponsor, UCL, and Imperial College, with one student going much further afield to study at the illustrious Ivy League, Princeton University in Massachusetts, USA.

The results undoubtedly reflect the quality of the school’s assessment and the excellence of Teaching and Learning in the Sixth Form at The UCL Academy.

Ms A Levesque, Assistant Principal Head of Sixth Form said:

“I am exceptionally proud of all our students who have worked so hard, including those who have faced very challenging circumstances, be it the cost of living crisis, family circumstances or those fleeing conflict and persecution from their former home countries. The future is bright, with so many of our young people possessing the drive, ambition and resilience to be highly successful at university, in apprenticeships and influential in their careers and communities.”

Mr G Moore, Executive Principal said:

“It is testament to the hard work of all our teachers and students who have performed so well across all subjects, therefore achieving fantastic opportunities at many Russell Group and other high-achieving universities. We have the highest admiration for the A Level class of 2024.”

 

Some of the stand-out individual performances from Academy students include:

 

Yazdan Khasahei, an Iranian immigrant who arrived in the UK in 2020 with minimal English proficiency, has secured a place to study medicine at King’s College. Today, our Deputy Head Boy was awarded 2 A*s in Maths and Persian, and 2 As in Biology and Chemistry.

After arriving in the UK, Yazdan had to wait one year to access formal school at The UCL Academy, which COVID-19 further impacted. Despite starting his GCSEs mid-year 10, he performed exceptionally well. Forward wind to today and his A Level grades speak for themselves; they would be impressive for anyone – let alone an immigrant who spoke such little English when he arrived in the UK. 

Yazdan is an exceptional student and person who has used his life experiences to propel him to greatness in his A Level studies, making him one of our highest achievers this year. 

 

Matvii Yatsenko, a refugee who fled the war in his native Ukraine in 2022, achieved stellar A Level results: 2 As in Economics and Maths, a B in Computer Science. Matvii now looks forward to studying Computer Science at The University of Edinburgh.

Such is his level of dedication; during his first year of A Levels, he also completed his studies remotely at his Ukrainian school. He made exceptional progress in both Maths and Computer Science, and despite English being his second language, Matvii has always been one of the highest-achieving students in Economics. 

Matvii openly admits the relocation was a challenge; however, he has demonstrated outstanding determination and resilience in his studies and was duly rewarded for all his hard work.

 

Subhan Hussein, our very own Head Boy, has today achieved  A*s in 4 subjects, Chemistry, Maths, Further Maths, Physics and an A in Computer Science and will now study Computer Science and Economics at Princeton University (USA). Subhan has been a student at the Academy since Year 12 and aside from praising his very devoted teachers, he said the help he recieved with applications was second to none, which crucially allowed him to devote as much time to his studies as possible.

 

Viena Muhaxheri is one of our Critchley Scholars and was today celebrating her exceptional achievements at A Level: 2 A*s in Biology and Maths and an A in Chemistry. Medicine has long been Vienna’s desired area of future study at University, and she now looks forward to beginning the next chapter of her education in September at Imperial College. Vienna said the “constant support of teachers is fundamental to achieving high grades.”

 

James Galloway is one of our highest-achieving students this year, with 3 A*s in Further Maths, Maths and EPQ, and 2 As in Physics and Economics. James will now study Physics at Bristol University.

 

Arthur Sokolov has achieved an enviable set of results, with an A* in Maths, 3 As in  Computer Science, Further Maths and Physics, and an A* in EPQ. He will now travel to The University of Edinburgh to study Computer Science and Maths.

 

Viola Muhaxheri was thrilled with her results today, securing 3 As in Art, Biology and Maths and a B in Physics, which have secured her a place at our sponsor UCL to study Architecture. Viola is another one of our Critchley Scholars and has been at the Academy since Year 7. She said “the teachers made me feel very comfortable in the learning environment, which resulted in me becoming more confident and asking questions.”

 

Ali Khairdeddine was extremely happy with their grades today, achieving 2 As in English Literature and Psychology and an A* in Sociology. Ali will resume their studies this September at Manchester University in Sociology. Ali spoke warmly of the ‘drive and passion’ of their teachers, saying how this ultimately allowed them to excel in their school and personal life.

Harvey Kong was awarded an A* in Maths and 3 As in Computer Science, Further Maths and Physics and will resume his studies at Imperial College in Maths and Computer Science.

Captivating ‘Grand Challenges’ Poster Exhibition at UCL

Last week, students from Foundation to Level 1Plus spent Monday through Thursday at the Grand Challenges exhibition in the South Cloisters at UCL, a new and exciting addition to the Academy calendar. The exhibition formed part of the Grand Challenges initiative surrounding the themes of Global Health; Sustainable Cities; Cultural Understanding; Human Wellbeing; Justice & Equality and Transformative Technology, with the focus of this particular exhibition being Climate Change, Mental Health and Wellbeing, and Justice and Equality.

Day 1 – Students collected data from UCL students and staff on their thoughts about the exhibition.

Day 2 – Students were on site answering questions from exhibition visitors about their work.

Day 3 –  Professor Alan Thompson Pro-Provost (London) announced the winners at the Prize Giving ceremony.

The Climate Change Grand Challenge project poster winners were (left to right) Eric Sebastian Mihai, Zoe NioTakis and Amber-Lilly Cooke (not in image). Foundation Level students, Amber-Lilly, Eric and Zoe created a poster about how we could make the UCL Academy carbon- neutral by 2030. They included ideas such as solar panels and a vegetable garden on the roof, recycling and compost bins, and a biomass boiler. Occupying a central position in the centre of the poster was a poignant quote, ‘you’ll die of old age, I’ll die of climate change’. All pupils expressed their concern about the future state of the planet, and therefore want to find innovative ways to reduce their carbon footprint.

 

The Sustainable Cities Grand Challenge project poster winners were Horace Worall (left) and Santiago Cardoso (right), two keen Level 1Plus mathematicians. Horace snd Santiago worked on the poster during maths club, using the opportunity to evocatively illustrate mathematics’s impact in creating future sustainable cities.

 

Level 1Plus students also worked on the Grand Challenge of “Justice & Equality”, initially looking at Protest Art to push and inform ideas.

The Justice & Equality Grand Challenge project poster winners were (left to right) Anna Ivankiv, Rahim Ali, Rahma Mohammed and Nova Goldgaber.

In the words of the students:

“Our collage is about the cost of living crisis. It is meant to show the difference in life depending on how much money you have. The pavement is made of money and jewels, and those who are rich and have financial stability get to walk and live. But those without financial stability fall through the cracks and suffer.”

Day 4 – Students once again on site to welcome visitors, answer questions and mark the end of a hugely insightful exhibition.

The collaborative efforts of students produced some awe-inspiring work, which thanks to our sponsor UCL, had exposure to a wide range of UCL students and academics as well as the visiting public. Weaving conversations about these hugely important topics into day-to-day life can catalyse far wider-reaching positive changes, something our students undoubtedly played their part in last week.

Thought Provoking AI Talk by Google Deepmind’s Antonia Paterson 

Unbeknown to most, AI has been in existence for decades, quietly and inconspicuously used in research, mostly focused in STEM related fields.

It moved into the public consciousness largely by virtue of companies such as Google, Facebook and Amazon, who used it to extract, secure and disseminate information to ‘improve and personalise the customer experience’. 

Whether or not you approve of the way in which personal information is captured and used by a multitude of companies worldwide, the fact remains AI is now deemed essential across a vast array of industries, including health care, banking, retail, and manufacturing. It therefore comes as no surprise that the ethical challenges and opportunities presented by AI technologies have been a talking point since its creation and have continued to escalate over the past decade.

Just before the half term break, students were enthralled by a lecture given by Antonia Paterson of Google DeepMind, Science Manager, Responsible Development and Innovation Team. Antonia spoke largely about the challenges faced by companies in ensuring the priority of safeguarding humans is upheld at all times. 

Those students fortunate enough to secure a seat in the full capacity library were given the opportunity to ask questions at the end of the talk…which they did in bounds. Antonio very graciously answered a slew of interesting and inquiring questions from students across many year groups.

Antonia remarked ‘the questions were on par with those she is asked by new recruits to DeepMind when they are inducted to her course’. 

Many thanks for everyone’s part in making this event a success, especially Antonia. Her generosity in sharing her time and knowledge of this cutting-edge technology allowed our students to consider a unique perspective of a field associated with many subjects studied at the Academy, namely, Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics and Sociology.

Exciting new exhibition added to Grand Challenges calendar

Most of you will already know about ‘Grand Challenges’, a UCL initiative that provides our students and staff with opportunities to learn from academics relating to global concepts and ideas surrounding the themes of Global Health; Sustainable Cities; Cultural Understanding; Human Wellbeing; Justice & Equality and Transformative Technology.

Students complete multiple projects across the year and throughout their entire education at the Academy. This year, the scope of work has been broadened to include an exhibition, whereby Year 10 students will be asked to represent their findings through the medium of Art, specifically in the format of a poster.

The focus of the exhibition will be Climate Change, Mental Health and Wellbeing, and Justice and Equality. This marks the debut of an exciting new way in which students can convey their understanding, thoughts and opinions on these important themes.

‘Art’ will not only allow the students to represent their thoughts in a literal manner, but will also provide the perfect opportunity to incorporate symbolic messages by using symbols and imagery that hold a specific meaning or connotation. Literature, religion, politics and personal experiences always play their part in discussions surrounding the ‘Big Themes’ and we have no doubt the work on show at the exhibition will further express the connections our students make with these matters of pressing societal concern. 

Please show your support for this wonderful new addition to the ‘Grand Challenges’ academy calendar by visiting the exhibition, where you will meet Year 10 students and hear about their work. Parents, carers, wider family members and friends of The UCL Academy are all most welcome.

The exhibition will take place at the South Cloisters, Wilkins Building, UCL and will be open to visitors on Monday 26th, Tuesday 27th and Thursday 29th February, 10am-12pm. On Wednesday 28th, the exhibition will be open from 12pm-2pm, with the Prize Giving Ceremony by Professor Alan Thompson Pro-Provost (London) taking place from 1pm onwards.

For more information on the event, please contact Sarah Beech at [email protected]

A Special Day Celebrating Our Students’ Achievements

 

The UCL Academy is celebrating its Year 13 students’ achievements, following the publication of A Level results today. The results achieved by the current cohort are a testament to the students’ resilience and hard work, in addition to the support provided by staff, parents, carers and each other. The Academy is immensely proud of our students who are today confirming their places on a range of degree courses reflecting the Academy’s commitment to academic excellence and a broad and forward-looking curriculum. 

Co-Principals Robin Street and Simon McBride said:

“Every year we welcome our students into the school to receive their grades and be with their peers and their teachers. Every year there are many wonderful achievements to celebrate, students to support and guidance to be given. This is a year group that navigated their GCSEs through the pandemic and who have studied their A levels with passion and commitment. We are so proud of the destinations everyone in this year group has secured, studying a broad range of courses at leading Universities and high-quality degree apprenticeships. Education is about giving every child a platform to move on to the next stage of their lives. We look forward to hearing more in the future about the class of 2023 and welcoming them back as the role models they have become to the next generation of UCL Academy students.”

As always, we are delighted with the performance of all our students. A few notable achievements below:

 

Rahim Addul
Rahim, one of our Deputy Heads was thrilled to achieve his results; 2 A*’s and 1 A in Biology, Chemistry and Maths. Rahim praised the teachers who worked hard to help him reach his potential and the ‘extra mile the teachers went to offer support throughout his studies’. Rahim is very much looking forward to studying Economics at the University of Warwick.

 

Maria Cabral de Mouram
Maria joined the Academy in Year 7 and today achieved a superb set of results. With an A* in English Literature, A’s in Computer Studies and Fine Art and a B in Mathematics, Maria has secured her place at the University of the Arts London to study Graphic and Media Design. She said ‘the teachers had played a pivotal role in her exam success’, in addition to her ‘never give up’ approach to education.

 

 

 

Ajibola Mobolaji-Okoya
Ajibola performed exceptionally well in his studies, gaining 3 A’s in Economics, Mathematics and Sociology. He will be taking up his place later this year to study Economics at the University of Birmingham. Ajibola credits the teachers with ‘giving him all the resources and support’ he needed to achieve his results.

 

 

Rita Sllamniku
Rita is another one of our students who has been with us since Year 7. With 3 A’s in Biology, Chemistry and Maths, Rita has secured her place to study Medicine at our sponsor UCL. Rita credited the ‘motivation and discipline instilled’ in her and fellow students as a major reason for her success, in addition to the dedication of teachers and the high level of education she was given throughout her time at the Academy.

 

 

 

Matthias Alvarado-Schunemann
Matthias was awarded for all his hard work, gaining 2 A’s in Mathematics and Spanish and 1 B in Economics. A student here since Year 8, Matthias is delighted to have secured his place to study Economics and Finance at Queen Mary University of London. He spoke about the importance of being given the independence to navigate his studies, in addition to the excellent Mathematics tutoring he received over the course of 2 years studying for his A Levels.

 

 

William Power
William was thrilled to achieve 2 A’s in Economics and Geography and a B in Philosophy. Later this year, he will take up his place to study Politics, Philosophy and Economics at the University of Warwick. William credited the ‘drive of teachers’ at the Academy and the ‘ability to have as much support as you need in order to achieve your goals’.

Founders’ Day Celebrations 2023

On May 24th, students, staff, Governors, UCL and extended members of The UCL Academy community came together to celebrate 10 years of the Academy. An eagerly awaited day that certainly lived up to and beyond all expectations when it finally arrived.

The main hall provided the stage from which the day began and ended. Speeches by President & Provost of UCL, Dr Michael Spence, Chair of Governors, Professor Lucie Green, Tulip Siddiq, MP and Sixth Form students set the tone for an afternoon that showcased everything that is unique to the Academy Curriculum. Not to mention the ambitious 5-Year plan for the Academy, explained by Robin Street and Simon McBride during speeches later in the day.

After the initial welcome, attendees were taken on student-led tours of the building to see some of the more usual and diverse subjects available to our students, by way of an ‘Enrichment Showcase’.

These included Music, Drama, Mandarin, SEND & Inclusion, Self Directed Learning, Engineering, PE, Careers, and Food.

Visitors to the Music department were treated to performances by the school choir, the Sixth Form instrumental band and members of the school rock group. Drama students dazzled us with their wonderful performance of part of Arthur Miller’s iconic play, The Crucible. Mandarin teachers and students took part in live lessons, where their Chinese language skills were put into practice during haggling and negotiation role plays. SEND & Inclusion allowed visitors to see examples of the types of interventions run by their team, including communication and interaction needs; cognition and learning needs; sensory and physical needs; and social, emotional and mental health needs. Self Directed Learning showcased a small range of activities from the current term, including a group of students taking part in an Albanian/Kosovan dance rehearsal, fencing coaching session led by Jamaica’s Number and a mini chess tournament and Origami activity led by members of the UCLA staff. Engineering gave visitors the chance to witness the future of education and technology, with live demonstrations of state-of-the-art CADCAM equipment, high-tech 3D printers and the pouring and finishing of liquid metal. PE showcased our wonderful partnership with Greenhouse Basketball, through which some of our students have developed and excelled to play at national level. Careers gave the opportunity for visitors to learn about this department helps our students to have inspiring and meaningful encounters with a wide range of people, through opportunities such as work experience, workplace visits, informal breakfasts, workshops, careers, university fairs, and more. Food was prepared by Level 1 and Level 1P students, showcasing their practical and creative skills. They prepared and cooked a variety of recipes, including traditional foods from some of the cuisines of our diverse school community.

The day culminated in the main hall with more talks by past and present students, as well as Elizabeth Critchley (Ripplewood Associates), Robin Street and Simon McBride (Co-Principals), not forgetting a beautiful a capella sung by one of our Academy students. While we all nibbled on the dishes prepared by L1 and L1 Plus Food students, there was a chance to reflect on not just the afternoon and the past 10 years, but the exciting times that lie ahead.

The next five years will build on the exceptional work of our sponsor, governors, staff, students and parent community in further establishing our school. While we look to further cement already proven practices and achievements, we also have a vision for the future. Our vision for the Academy is explained in this paper; please take the time to read this important document, which outlines the framework of how we will work with the community, our sponsor and other partners in achieving our vision.

Our sincere thanks to all those who made this wonderfully celebratory afternoon the success it was. And of course, to all those in our extended community who attended, and by all accounts enjoyed it just as much as us.

The Orion Garden – a new STEAM classroom at The UCL Academy

The UCL Academy building and its grounds provide inspiring spaces for all those fortunate enough to work and study here, and alongside the Architects’ original landscape design, students and teachers now have a rejuvenated exterior garden to nurture, learn from and bask in throughout the year.

Our Connected Curriculum encourages students to apply their curriculum learning beyond the classroom to real world scenarios. Students from year 7 to year 10 have been involved in the leadership and co-design of the Orion STEAM Garden. The project has involved learning that is both creative and interdisciplinary – from applying scientific knowledge about ecosystems and biodiversity to designing a space that meets the needs of both wildlife and humans. 

Supported by Camden STEAM, the opportunity arose to make an application for a climate Kickstart prize to the Mayor of London, with the premise of the application and funding being ‘rewilding’ at the Academy. Much to our delight, the application was successful and the academy was awarded just under £9000, an appreciated contribution to say the least.

Camden STEAM facilitated connections to commission a local charity, ‘Camden Think and Do’, which consists of gardeners and general volunteers. Over 40 students at the academy have now been trained in the principles of rewilding and sustainability and co-designed the Orion garden space. 

Since September, with the available funding, ‘Camden Think and Do’ have delivered 3 workshops to approximately 40 students from years 7,8, 9 and 10. Via these workshops, students have learned why rewilding initiatives in schools and the environment at large are so important. The discussions in the initial workshop were varied, but focussed predominantly on soil, air pollution, biodiversity, food production and the element of wellbeing. Workshop 2 centred on the co-design of the garden, alongside organisations including Camden Think and Do, Camden Clean Air Initiative and Camden Arts Centre. 

Building on the knowledge and principles already acquired,, the final workshop involved students working alongside Camden Think and Do and volunteers from Doughty Street Chambers to build pathways, plant trees, bulbs and seeds galore. Year 7 students in particular enjoyed this project, many of them embracing the collaborative design process and the opportunity to express their personal thoughts and wishes for the garden. 

Eliana (Year 7 student) said: 

“I have enjoyed the workshops we have been able to do; they have been a great learning experience for me and my peers. I have always loved nature and being able to help hit environmental problems on the head has made me even more aware of trying to save the environment”.

Once again, all materials and plants were procured through the ‘Camden Think and Do’ funding. Camden Think and Do have been an invaluable partner in bringing students ideas to life. 

The cyclical nature of the garden will offer endless opportunities to study and understand the environment, combining curricular, social and emotional benefits. First and foremost, instilling students with patience and respect for nature, offering them an holistic understanding of the various processes that occur from one season to another; while learning that urban spaces, however small, can become important areas for plant growth as well as refuges for wildlife. All of which plays a part in protecting the ecosystem on a global level.

Time Lapse cameras already placed in the garden are recording the short and long term effects of weather and time, giving tangible curriculum links in Geography and the Sciences. In addition to these, students also drew upon key elements of the Mathematics and Art curriculums when they applied their knowledge of measurement, geometry and design in order to produce an aesthetically pleasing and efficient garden. The Academy’s vision of a connected curriculum inspired by UCL’s Grand Challenges, which include sustainable cities, could not be more relevant in the case of this new space and the learning opportunities it will provide for all years and all abilities. 

Needless to say, this garden has particular resonance with some of our students who don’t have direct access to a garden or exterior space at home. We feel extremely fortunate and proud to offer every one of our students access to this garden, to participate in the maintenance of, or simply to use as a tranquil area in which to relax.

Such is the success of the newly planted Orion Garden, it has already garnered a loyal following of willing students, who will now maintain and nurture for their own enjoyment and education, and for those of future academy students.

Congratulations Year 11 – Fantastic GCSE Results 2022

GCSE results day is finally upon us and like so many before, we have ample reason to celebrate. The UCL Academy GCSE students continue to raise the bar with a high attaining set of results, with 30% of grades at 7 or above. Students achieved above national average results in a range of subjects, including some more unique to the Academy’s curriculum such as Engineering and Mandarin.

It goes without saying that all students have endured a testing 3 years, but their determination and diligence has paved the way for these well deserved results. We would like to thank all staff and parents/carers for their hard work in supporting our students’ achievements, none of this would have been possible without your ongoing help and dedication.

Many of our Year 11 students will start the next chapter of their studies in our Sixth Form and we look forward to them returning in September and progressing towards university and future careers. For those leaving us, we wish you luck in your future endeavours and very much look forward to seeing your progression.

Co-Principals, Robin Street and Simon McBride said: “Today is about celebrating the successes of every single one of our students. In amongst the excellent grades achieved are so many students who have made exceptional progress from a range of starting points. That includes students who have joined us in recent years from abroad and others who faced a range of personal challenges outside of school. Results Days rightly celebrate individual success stories, but many of those are far more than just grades”.

Outstanding Individual Results:

 

 

James Galloway

As one of the Academy’s top achieving students, James was rewarded for all his hard work with a stellar set of results, 5 x 9s and 5 x 8s. James’ best grades were awarded in English, Mandarin and the Sciences.

 

 

Viola Muhaxheri

With an impressive 5 x 9s, 4 x 8s and 1 x 7, Viola was thrilled to have achieved top grades in a range of subjects, including Art & Design, Biology, Chemistry, Engineering and Geography. Viola will continue her studies in A Level Art, Engineering, Physics and Maths. Viola spoke about the “excellent connections and opportunities afforded to her during her 5 years, specifically those of UCL (our sponsor).

 

 

Viena  Muhaxheri

Viena achieved excellent results, with 4 x 9s, 5 x 8s and 1 x 6  in a range of subjects, including all three Sciences. Viena is now looking forward to continuing her study of the Sciences at A Level. She attributes many things to her success, but specifically mentioned the “close community and the extremely positive effect it had on her studies”.

 

 

Ronita Bejtullahi 

With an impressive 10 GCSEs including 2 x 9s, 4 x 8s and 2 x 7s,  Ronita was delighted with her achievements, achieving top grades in a range of subjects including Art & Design, Biology, Chemistry, English Language, English Literature and Geography. A Level Biology, Chemistry and English Literature are Ronita’s chosen A Level subjects. Ronita said “the communication between teachers and students played an important role in my ability to succeed, it really helped with the stress around exam time”.

 

Maaria Matin

Celebrating considerable success today is Maaria Matin with 10 GCSEs, including 2 x 9s, 4 x 8s and 2 x 7s. Maaria will continue her studies in A Level Economics, Geography and Maths. She spoke warmly about “the extracurricular sessions and the extra mile that teachers go to make sure all students can succeed”.

 

 

Abid Kamal

Abid excelled in his studies and has been rewarded with an enviable set of results; 1 x 9, 4 x 8s and 5 x 7s. He is yet another one of our students who has performed exceptionally well in the Sciences. Abid said “camaraderie between the students and teachers was key to the success I have achieved”. 

 

 

Rayyane Gasmi 

Rayyaane achieved superb results, being awarded 10 GCSEs and including an impressive 7 x 8s. Rayyaane is now very much looking forward to continuing his studies at A Level. Many positives about his time at the Academy were mentioned, specifically the “close community and the extremely positive effect it had on his studies”.

 

 

Lisa Hoxha

As the awardee of 10 GCSEs, comprising 2 x 9s, 5 x 8s and 1 x 7, Lisa is quite rightly proud of her achievements; she excelled in Combined Science and Sociology. A Level Maths, Further Maths, Economics and Politics await Lisa on her return to study this September.

 

 

Lina Abdulrazzaq 

Lina was excited to collect her results this morning and elated by the outcome, 1 x 9, 5 x 8s and 4 x 7s. As one of the Academy’s high performing students, Lina is now looking forward to studying for her A Levels and has many fond memories from the past few years. At the forefront of her mind is the “the atmosphere and shared desire to learn at the Academy, but also the warmth and generosity of all the teachers and students”. 

 

 

Bardh Sadrija 

Bardh has been studying at the Academy since Year 7. Today, he is celebrating an outstanding set of results including 10 GCSEs, comprising 7 x 9s and 3 x 7s. Needless to say, he is incredibly proud of his results. Bardh said “The best thing about UCL Academy is the teaching environment and the teachers, they are always ready and willing to help”. Bardh is looking forward to starting his A Levels in Economics, Maths, Further Maths and Physics.

 

 

Arteen Babaei 

A student with us since Year 7, Arteen is yet another individual celebrating phenomenal academic success today with 10 GCSEs, including 2 x 9s, 4 x 8s and 3 x 7s. Arteen expressed his deep gratitude to the teaching staff, detailing how “Teachers know exactly how to cater to specific students, which in turn helped me get high grades”.

 

 

 

Ethan Li

Ethan was understandably overwhelmed by his results, achieving 10 GCSEs, 8 of which are grades 7-9. Ethan said “the opportunity to study Mandarin and the sense of community at the academy were pivotal to his success”.

 

 

 

Snapshots of the day:

 

 

Congratulations to our A Level Class of 2022

 

Staff and Governors at The UCL Academy could not be prouder of the achievements of this year’s A Level cohort. In spite of all the challenges of the past three years, so many of our students have achieved excellent grades across their subjects.

They have, as a result of their hard work and dedication, been rewarded with places at some of the country’s leading universities such as Imperial College London, King’s College London, London School of Economics, Queen Mary University of London and the Universities of Edinburgh, Leeds, Manchester, Warwick and York.

They are moving onto an impressive range of courses in STEM, Humanities and the Arts. For example, Comparative Literature, English, Fine Art & Art History, Economics, Environmental science, History, Law, Philosophy, Aerospace Engineering, Engineering & Architectural Design, Medical Sciences, Neuroscience, Pharmacy, Computer Science and Mathematics.

We are particularly proud that currently 6 of our students have confirmed places to study at our Sponsor UCL, fulfilling the dreams they had when they first started at The UCL Academy.

Co-Principals Robin Street and Simon McBride said “Students have done so well to achieve these results and move onto these exciting courses. They worked through their A Level courses during a period of much higher uncertainty than usual and showed determination and resilience that will stand them in really good stead for their future lives. We wish them every success.” 

As always, we are delighted with the performance of all our students and they will be proud of what they have accomplished. A few highlights below:

 

 

Nayeeb Choudhury

Having achieved a fantastic set of results; 4 A*s in Economics, Maths, Further Maths and Politics, Nayeeb is one of the Academy’s highest achievers this year. Nayeeb wished to thank the Maths department for their support in achieving his desired results, stating “my teachers helped at every step along the way”. Nayeeb is looking forward to taking his place at LSE to study Economics.

 

Nora Salam

Nora joined the Academy’s Sixth Form in September 2020. With an A* in History and 2 A’s in Psychology and English Literature, Nora has secured her place at University of Edinburgh to study History. Nora spoke about her passion for history and her gratitude for the support she received from the Academy throughout her time in Sixth Form, stating that ‘they cared a lot and always helped prepare for exams’.

 

 

 

Ali Sam Nateghian 

Ali-Sam, our Head Boy, was thrilled to achieve his results; 2 A*’s in Economics and Maths plus 2 A’s in Biology and Chemistry. Ali-Sam praised the teachers who worked hard to help him reach his potential and secure his place in September at University of Warwick studying Economics.

 

 

 

Mohammad Eghbal Sobhani 

With 3 A’s in Biology, Chemistry and Maths, Mohammad has secured his place at King’s College to study Neuroscience. Mohammed spoke empathetically about the pastoral support he received, both emotionally and mentally, and the willingness of the teachers to help with his exams preparation when needed, quoting that it has been “the best 2 years of my life!”.

 

 

Hana Molokhia

Hana achieved superb results of 3 A*’s in Engineering, Maths and Further Maths plus an A in Physics. Hana will be attending our Sponsor UCL in September to study Engineering and Architectural Design. Coming in as a new student to Sixth Form in 2020, Hana warmly talked about how welcomed and supported she felt, and the motivation her teachers provided. Hana said “my teachers pushed me in my studies and to stay in Further Maths, I wouldn’t have got the grades without them”.

 

 

Olti Llapashtica 

Olti has been a student at the Academy since Year 7 (Foundation). He achieved a wonderful set of results; 2 A*’s in Economics and Maths plus an A in Politics which granted him a place at University of Warwick to study Economics. Olti found the helpfulness of all departments and the learning environment pivotal to his success and is grateful that staff pushed him to achieve his best. Olti’s main learning point from undertaking his A levels was that “hard work pays off”.

 

 

Ylli Nici 

A student at The UCL Academy since Year 8 (Level 1), Ylli excelled in his 4 chosen subjects, achieving 3 A*’s in Economics, Maths and Further Maths plus an A in Physics. Ylli is excited to continue his studies in Maths at Imperial College London. Ylli spoke about the quality and consistency of his education at the Academy, which supported him in achieving his results, concluding that “consistency is king!”.