Long Road Scholars 2024/25

Ava

Secondary School: Smith's Hill High School
Studying: Drama, English Literature & History A Levels
Progression Goals: University, then a career as a Barrister.

My favourite thing about being a Long Road student is the holistic and friendly atmosphere is something that I find really unique compared to other schools and has been by far the best part of my Long Road experience. Now in my second year, I have submitted my uni applications, and I’m working on super curriculars to supplement my subjects – watching debates and court trials.

To the new Year 1 students, I would give the advice of using your free periods to do work! It means that you have to do less outside of school hours and massively helps manage your time.

Zachary

Secondary School: Maru-a-Pula School
Studying: Chemistry, Maths & Physics A Levels
Progression Goals: Engingeering or Medical Degree

I chose to study at Long Road because the school was highly recommended by friends and family. Students are supported through school and given plenty of freedom to explore and participate in other activities. The campus, students and staff are all very welcoming. 

I chose to apply for the Scholars’ Award because I felt it would help me connect with the community while being of service. The award allows me to meet and work with new people, and will help me grow as a person. It is a great addition to my CV, and the reward will help me do more of what I enjoy. I plan to use my scholarship to buy new equipment for school and swimming. I would also like to spend some time travelling Europe. I grew up in Botswana and would like to experience different cultures.

I would encourage Year 11s looking for a good work-life balance to apply to Long Road. It’s good preparation for the future, and the support you get at school means there is more time for what’s important to you outside of school. Long Road also really helps students choose what works best for them after college. The Scholars Award is a good opportunity to challenge yourself. It helps you stand out. The work you will do is meaningful, and the scholarship means you have money to invest in whatever makes you happy.

My favourite thing about Long Road so far has been the atmosphere. Choosing your own subjects means lessons are more engaging. Outside of lessons, you and your friends have the freedom to choose where and how to spend your time. The staff and students create an easy-going yet focused environment.

Candice

Secondary School: Impington Village College
Studying: Business & Psychology Level 3 Applied,                                 Photography A Level 
Progression Goals: Clinical Psychologist

I chose to study at Long Road due to the ability to choose the style of qualification I wanted to study, as well as being given the opportunity to learn independently whilst still being supported by teachers and tutors. I also liked the plentiful study areas across the college as this allows me to maximise my free time to study or to be with friends.

I chose to apply for the Scholars Award as it was a strong motivator for me to study for my GCSE’s and develop successful study techniques that I can continue to use throughout the rest of my education. It also offered me the unique privilege of improving my non-academic skills and promoting my college to future students. This is an amazing opportunity as these skills will look amazing on my university applications, as well as being a way to stand out from other applicants. With my scholarship money, I would save the majority of it to go toward my university and tuition fees, though I would spend a portion of it on subscriptions to helpful revision resources.

I would encourage current Year 11’s to apply to Long Road as it provides more freedom to take the initiative in your learning. There is also a substantial support network of academic, emotional and financial support that is readily available for students.

So far, the best thing about being a Long Road student is that everyone is in a new environment, so people are more considerate and caring. This has made my experience amazing thus far, as it has been easy to meet new people and develop relationships as everyone is in the same boat.

Will

Secondary School: Soham Village College
Studying: DT & Maths A Level, Computing Level 3 Applied
Progression Goals: Engineering Degree

Throughout my time at Long Road, it has always been a really positive and productive environment. It always feels like you’re surrounded by the right people, and it combines the social and work aspects well with the shared study spaces, for example. To the Year 1 students, I would say you should start thinking about your plans for after Long Road sooner rather than later. It's something that, if you leave late, can be really overwhelming, so having a rough plan, or idea at least, is really helpful. This plan can always change, so don’t overthink it, just do what is best for you.

I’m planning on looking into a degree in engineering, so I’ve been doing research relating to the courses and exploring why it might be a good fit for me. I’ve also been visiting university open days to get an idea of where I can see myself ending up after Long Road. It can be very daunting to make these decisions, but I’m trying to research so that whatever decision I make is backed up with good reasons. 

I’m planning on putting my scholarship money towards something in the future, maybe a car for when I’ve passed my test.

Ellie

Secondary School: Newmarket Academy
Studying: Chemistry, Maths, Further Maths, Physics A Level
Progression Goals: Maths or Medicine Degree

I chose to study at Long Road because it has a great mix of a friendly and professional environment, even extending to calling teachers by their first names, creating more of a collaborative and familiar environment between students and teachers. I also liked the level of independence that students are given. Everyone seemed so comfortable being at college and being given more responsibility over their own education. After speaking to the teachers on my taster day, I realised that the teachers were genuinely passionate about the subjects they teach and are actively motivated to help you achieve. The layout of the school is also great. There are so many areas to do your work quietly or to hang out with your friends.

I chose to apply for the Scholars Award because, honestly, there was nothing to lose. You might as well give it a go! The worst they could say was no, but now I’m so glad I did. It is also something good to put on your personal statement and any opportunities that arise from representing Long Road, which looks great for any future plans you have. I’m planning on spending my scholarship money on different resources for each of my subjects, such as textbooks, transport to school (because it’s expensive!), school trips, and I’d also like to spend it on extracurricular activities to maintain a good school/life balance.

I would definitely encourage Year 11s to apply to Long Road. I think coming to this college is a great idea if you want to establish maturity and self-sufficiency as you’re becoming an adult. The college is great at balancing this individuality with also providing support for you if you need it, whether it’s with your teachers, progress coaches, or different members of the staff who are there to help students through college life.

My favourite thing about being a Long Road student so far is that I get to see my friends during my free periods, and I’m treated like an adult. In secondary school it can often feel like you’re being treated like a child, which completely changes at Long Road, as Long Road is trying to prepare you for when you finish school and get into the real world. I have loved how many opportunities have already been given to me, such as various maths trips and a careers fair, making it less daunting to think about what I possibly want to do after college, which can be a very overwhelming and scary decision. I have also loved getting to know my teachers, especially my Maths teacher, Adriana, as it’s nice to see another female who is amazing at maths that I can look up to.

Urvisha

Secondary School: The Netherhall School
Studying: Maths, Photography & Sociology A Level
Progression Goals: University study 

My favourite thing about Long Road is the community. It is such a friendly and supportive place, created by both students and teachers. There is support and help if you need it, but there is also freedom and independence.

My advice to new students is to take Year 1 seriously. Try to keep up with your learning and to take advantage of resources and opportunities the college has to offer right from the start. This will all help support your learning and hopefully make it easier to decide what you would like to do after Long Road.

At the moment, to guide my progression goals, I am doing research and looking at different universities for the course I want to pursue. I am also in the process of writing my personal statement and submitting my UCAS application. I have been saving my scholarship money for university and plan to do that with the rest too.

Henry

Secondary School: Swavesey Village College
Studying: Maths A Level, Computing & IT Level 3 Applied
Progression Goals: Apprenticeship in the I.T/software                                             development fields

I chose to study at Long Road because of the positive reputation the college has, the great facilities they have for people with special needs and disabilities, like me, and because I was able to study all the subjects I wanted too. 

I chose to apply for the Scholars' Award because I believe my perspective as someone with special learning needs and a physical disability will help the college to grow and develop in a direction promoting diversity and accessibility. I plan to save the money for my future.

My favourite thing about college so far is the freedom provided to Long Road’s students. It makes me feel like I have a greater amount of control over my own education, and the ability to leave campus at any time makes coming to college feel a lot more freeing and less of an obligation.

Theia

Secondary School: Bottisham Village College
Studying: Fine Art, Geography & Maths A Levels
Progression Goals: Architecture Degree

My favourite thing about being a Long Road student is the fact I was lucky enough to be part of the Turing Scheme, in which a group of students went to Singapore for two weeks. It was an amazing experience and a chance to make new friends. I also love the people at Long Road, staff and students alike, who are friendly, welcoming and, most importantly, passionate about what they are studying and teaching.

My advice to Year 1 students is to take advantage of all the opportunities and tools that are available to you. Long Road has so many helpful tools, such as plus time, careers fairs and university prep groups (Aim Higher, Oxbridge and MedSoc) along with all the trips available and super-curricular activities that will help you get passionate and prepared for what you want to do in the future.

So far, I have spent my scholarship money on going to see some of my favourite artists in concert with my friends, which have been amazing experiences. The rest of the money will probably be put towards going on holiday with my friends to celebrate completing our A-Levels next summer.

I have been working towards my progression goals by applying to universities. I am currently waiting to attend interviews and receive offers to study architecture. I am working hard towards achieving the grades I need in my A-Levels in order to get into my dream courses and achieve my predicted grades.

Juvi

Secondary School: Samuel Ward Academy
Studying: DT, Economics & Psychology A Levels
Progression Goals: Career in Teaching or Engineering

I chose to study at Long Road due to its wide range of available subjects, social opportunities and pastoral support. Personally, the Art and DT subjects that the college provides appealed to me, as well as the availability to do sports and clubs - taking part in the basketball team has helped me to settle in, get to know people and make a strong circle of friends. Additionally, the pastoral support has allowed me to connect to my tutors – who are available at any time – and talk about any worries or updates that I would need support with. Finally, being given this opportunity to become a Long Road Scholar took a big role in influencing me to choose Long Road. Not only this, but it majorly motivated me to do my best in my GCSEs and even rewarded me for doing so – showing that hard work DOES pay off.

I chose to apply for the Scholars Award as we only have 2 years in college (less than half of how long we have in Secondary) so I would definitely recommend trying to grab every opportunity that is available for you – especially if it means gaining financial, academic and social benefits. I plan on saving my scholarship money - I don’t know what I’m saving for, but it’ll definitely be for something worth it.

So far, I am enjoying Long Road, after meeting so many amazing and inspiring people that I have been able to meet through the inclusive clubs and sports that Long Road offers. Finally, I have met great teachers who help me engage in class, which has played a great role in motivating me to do my best in and outside of lessons.

Tabitha

Secondary School: Soham Village College
Studying: Biology, Chemistry, Maths & Further Maths
                 A Levels
Progression Goals: To study Biochemistry at University                                          and become a Research Scientist

My favourite thing about being a Long Road student is the community. I have found staff and students extremely friendly, making my time at college enjoyable. Also, the opportunities provided, and the college staff's hard work, has benefitted me immensely, through new experiences, work placements, and future choices available to me. The summer work experience was very valuable in discovering my likes and dislikes, as well as providing solid substance for my personal statement.

My advice to Year 1 students is to try all opportunities available and to not put off revision until the last minute. Although don’t revise too much to the point of burnout, as recovery is longer than you think and will impact your Year 2 studies. Vitally remember to enjoy the social aspects of Sixth Form.

Currently, I am building on my Year 1 experience and studies by ensuring my revision is effective, so I can achieve the top grades to secure my university offer as well as working towards the next step in my career goals.

Last year, I spent my scholarship money on revision resources for my subjects, such as Gizmo, as well as travel costs to visit universities. This year I plan to use it to purchase additional stationary, and continue with the study subscriptions, however I aim to save most of my scholarship money in preparation for university next year.

Lily

Secondary School: The Marist
Studying: Art (Textiles), History & Psychology A Levels
Progression Goals: University study

I chose to study at Long Road because of its strong academic and creative reputation, supportive community and opportunities to help students through the 2 years at college. So far I have really enjoyed learning new subjects I have not studied before such as Psychology, as well as meeting new friends and classmates

I chose to apply for the scholar’s award to expand my range of skills, such as leadership. I believe this is a great opportunity to get out of my comfort zone. I will likely spend my money on a new laptop to facilitate my learning at Long Road in both academic and creative subjects.

Long Road offers a wide range of courses to ensure you study what you love. The staff are very friendly and committed to helping students throughout college to achieve their goals.  The Scholar’s Award offers fantastic opportunities for academic growth and personal development and is an impressive accomplishment when applying to universities or jobs in the future. 

Sofia

Secondary School: Swavesey Village College
Studying: DT, Maths & Physics A Levels
Progression Goals: Career in Engineering

I chose to study at Long Road because, for me, it offers the ideal environment for my personal and academic growth. The transition from secondary school to sixth form can be a daunting experience; however, Long Road has created a welcoming and supportive environment that has eased this adjustment. Its friendly and supportive atmosphere fosters a sense of belonging while encouraging independence. It empowers students to take ownership of their learning journey (alongside access to assistance and collaboration), which ensures that students feel guided and confident throughout their studies.

I applied for the Scholars Award because I was eager to become more actively engaged within the college community. Motivated by a desire to contribute meaningfully, I saw this opportunity as a way to make a positive impact during my time at Long Road; this award presented a platform to not only enhance my development but also to give back to the institution in a constructive and impactful manner. I plan to use most of the money to support my studies, such as purchasing necessary equipment and transport while setting aside a small portion for my hobbies.

I highly encourage Year 11 students to apply for the Scholars Award, as it offers a great opportunity to connect with the college community and peers. The program helps increase involvement in college life, enhancing the overall experience. Additionally, receiving the award adds value to applications and CVs, highlighting commitment, initiative, and a proactive approach to personal and academic growth.

What I enjoy most about being a Long Road student is the freedom and independence I have, which allows me to take control of my education and manage my time effectively to stay productive.

Liv

Secondary School: Etonbury Academy
Studying: Economics, Maths & Sociology A Levels
Progression Goals: Smash my A levels, attend the                                                   University of Bristol and later join                                             security services like MI5

A huge driving force in my desire to attend Long Road Sixth Form College was the opportunity to experience a new environment to study in beyond what I had previously known. I knew it would provide me with valuable life experience, new friends, incredible teachers, and a holistic community where I could find my place and develop as a person. Long Road is known to foster and develop good, kind people who are both challenged and supported academically, ensuring you leave ready for adult life. Another driving force in my decision was the progress coach programme because it gave me reassurance that I would have a focused support network despite being in such a large and alien school.  I came to Long Road because it offers a completely different two years compared to what I would experience at any other Sixth Form in the area. I love the independence; I think that at Long Road you are treated as an equal and as the young adult that you are which is very refreshing and something that would never be felt at a school Sixth Form.

I applied for the Scholar award firstly because it provided extra motivation to push for my desired GCSE grades. I am also extremely passionate about being an active member of the school community. I was a student council member throughout my entire secondary school career because it was important to me to ensure that all voices were heard and that is something that I want to continue here at Long Road. I am going to be doing Gold DofE this year, so I plan to put some money from the Scholar award towards my residential trip and expedition.  

I would encourage year 11s to apply for the Long Road Scholars award because it provides motivation during the stressful GCSE period. The Scholars award ensures that you will be involved with a group of people whom you would have never seen before amongst the thousands of people in the school. It is another way to build connections with people like you and ensure you are recognised for who you are and what you can potentially achieve. Sixth Form is a time in our lives all about preparation for adult life, building personal confidence, and learning the last few lessons outside the curriculum that you would not learn in school. It is therefore so important to choose a Sixth Form that is outside your comfort zone. Long Road is perfect for this because students come from all over, and you end up interacting with such a diverse group of people.

Rosie

Secondary School: Soham Village College
Studying: DT, Geography & Psychology A Levels
Progression Goals: Geography Degree

After attending the open evening in the summer, I felt that Long Road was the perfect college for me to take my A levels. Not only did Long Road offer the best courses for the subjects I intended on taking, but I also felt extremely welcome into the Long Road community. Having met the teachers and other students at the open evening, I quickly recognised the support and friendliness that is offered here at Long Road and decided that this college was better suited to my personality and goals for my future studies.

Having received an email showcasing this amazing opportunity Long Road offers for its students, I immediately applied for the position as I thought it would be an excellent opportunity to get involved in the college community, meet new people and help voice students’ opinions in ways to continuously improve life at college.  I also recognised it would be a perfect opportunity to improve my applications to universities and jobs in the future, and to help me stand out as a hard-working individual. I am planning to put some of the money towards buying a laptop as I don’t have one currently and feel it would be extremely beneficial for aiding my studies. However, I intend on using most of the money to help fund my dreams of doing Camp America – something I plan to undertake after I finish my A levels. I am keen to meet new people from across the world and learn about different cultures whilst improving my non-academic skills and am certain Camp America would be a perfect opportunity to do so.

A key aspect of Long Road which I think all Year 11s should think about when considering whether to come here to study, is the wide range of facilities and study areas Long Road offers. From silent study areas to social and collaborative work areas, these spaces help you find a balance between both your social life and academic studies and provide a comfortable environment to thrive in. I would strongly encourage any Year 11 to join us at Long Road due to the wide range of opportunities offered and the extremely welcoming staff that are always there to support us. I would encourage all hard-working and driven individuals to apply for the Scholars Award, as I think it is an excellent opportunity to boost your applications in the future and make a positive impact on the college, and it doesn’t take long to apply at all. Plus, the money you get can be used for funding things you’ve always dreamed of doing!

I would definitely say that the freedom and open, relaxing environment here at Long Road has been the best part so far. The resources available to help aid your studies makes working much more enjoyable e.g. the laptops, which are free to use in K block, have been really useful for me during free periods, as I can take advantage of this time to prevent working for longer at home.  

Noah

Secondary School: Swavesey Village College
Studying: Computing, Maths & Media A Levels
Progression Goals: Career in Computer Science

The college was very welcoming to me on the open day and all the teachers were knowledgeable about their subjects. I decided that Long Road would help me develop to the furthest degree. I applied for the Scholars Award as a way to gain experience in similar roles in the future, and I felt that I could help change the college for the better if given the opportunity.

To any Year 11s thinking about applying to Long Road you should know that the staff are incredibly kind and good at teaching. They give constructive feedback and always have time to help students with any problems in college, whether that means wellbeing problems, or simply struggles with classwork. 

I really enjoy the sense of freedom that students are given compared to other colleges and schools, which allows you to completely personalise your timetable due to the many free periods we are given.

Robin

Secondary School: Bassingbourn Village College
Studying: DT, Maths, Further Maths & Physics A Levels
Progression Goals: Product Design Engineer

My favourite thing about being a long road student is the welcoming atmosphere and the balance of social and study spaces. My advice to Year 1 students is to try completing work and revising in your free periods so that you can relax as much as possible after school! 

I am working to get a place on a Product Design Engineering Course at a university and then have a successful career in the design industry. I bought a laptop with my scholarship money to help with college work at school and at home.

Poppy

Secondary School: King James Academy Royston
Studying: Biology, PE & Psychology A Levels
Progression Goals: Career in Sport

I chose to study at Long Road because of the good things I had heard about the college, and the nice environment which I felt on the Open Day.  I knew that it would be a place where I would be happy and would suit my personality. Also, I value how the college balances independence with support, as you have a large amount of independence around work and study, but there is always lots of support for you if you need it. This allows you to balance the social side of college with the academic side well.

I discovered the Scholars Award when I was applying. I decided to apply for the award as I felt that it would be a nice way to contribute to the college, while also being a reward for my hard work at GCSEs. It definitely gave me that extra bit of motivation when I needed it! I plan on saving most of my scholarship money but also plan on putting some towards driving lessons and the upcoming Psychology trip to Poland.

To any Year 11s who are applying to colleges, I strongly recommend that you consider Long Road.  The transition from secondary school to college can be very intimidating and daunting, but Long Road provides a welcoming and friendly environment which makes the transition much easier. Also, the college not only helps you grow academically, but as an individual too – the independence you gain, and the variety of opportunities provided allow you to grow into a well-rounded young adult.

So far, my favourite thing about being a Long Road student is the people. Everyone here, students, teachers and staff, are really nice and welcoming. The environment is so positive and engaging, and you can really tell that both the students and the teachers are passionate about their subjects, but also about your future too.

Riley

Secondary School: Castle Manor Academy
Studying: Biology, Chemistry & Maths A Levels
Progression Goals: Geneticist

I chose to study at Long Road as, from the start, I knew it would give me the best blend of pressure to improve and achieve my best as well as enough opportunities to meet new people and have a social life both inside and outside of college. I applied for the Scholars' Award as my next step in my education will hopefully be going to university and I want to stand out... the money also helps! Speaking of the money, I’m hoping to save it for university or to pay for any school supplies I may need or want.

My favourite thing about Long Road is the amount of freedom I get in my free time. There’s always enough time to get all my work done as well as spend a lot of time with my friends, which I am very grateful for. I’m very happy with my choice, and I’m glad for the environment Long Road gives me to flourish.   

Alessandro

Secondary School: Impington Village College
Studying: Economics, Geography & Physics A Levels
Progression Goals: Achieve good A Levels! 

I chose to study at Long Road because it has good subject choices, and it has many good travel routes to the college, making the commutes easier. My favourite thing so far about the college is how supportive the teachers are of your work, so you're not overly stressed out about the jump from GCSE to A Levels. 

 I thought that the Scholars Award would be a good thing to take part in and add to my CV for university. I am thinking of saving the money, or using it to go on trips to help with my studies.