I began my journey at Blackheath High School in Year 7, drawn to the great supportive, pastoral environment. Fast-forwarding to Year 13, where I study A-levels in Maths, Economics, Chemistry and Biology, and that immense level of encouragement has been even more crucial through my A-level and UCAS application journey – ultimately enabling me to choose an Economics and Public Policy related degree in September. 

Being able to choose the specific combination of four A-levels I wanted to pursue has allowed me to keep my options open while deciding which field I would like to go in. In particular, the small university-style class sizes helped me decide on Economics as I have had the opportunity to debate and discuss ideas in class. After university, I hope to work in public policy – a decision partly inspired by numerous work experience programmes such as at Economic Think Tanks, which I was encouraged to apply to by my teachers. 

Although I am sad to leave Blackheath’s tight-knit and welcoming community, I am incredibly excited to start university in September. I have applied to several leading London universities to study either pure Economics or a combination with Social and Public Policy, and I am delighted that some of my Blackheath High friends will also be attending universities nearby. 

One of my favourite opportunities at Blackheath High has of course been to be part of the Head Student Team, where I’ve been able to organise numerous charity events such as Teacher Dodgeball which have been incredibly fun whilst enabling me to support charities such as the Kariega Foundation, helping to protect rhino horns; and Emmaus, which helps the homeless. Additionally, I’ve been able to run the school magazine, ‘The Blackheath Buzz’ and Economics Society which I have really enjoyed taking part in.  

Written by Alisha, Year 13, Head Student Team