Meet our Long Road Scholars 2021/2022

Julija

• Year 1

• Secondary School: Trumpington Community College

• Studying: Maths A Level, Psychology A Level, Graphic Design Level 3 Extended Certificate

• Progression goals: Study Architecture at university 

I chose to study at Long Road due to several reasons. Firstly, it had a great variety of courses including Graphic Design, which wasn’t available at other colleges that I was considering. Its location was ideal for me, since it is very close to home and not far from the city centre. Overall, Long Road seemed a very welcoming and friendly environment that I wanted to be part of.

I chose to apply for the Scholars Award because I thought it was a great opportunity that I just couldn’t miss. I thought it would give me lots of valuable experience and would look great on my personal statement for university. It is also an achievement in itself, and I am very proud to have been chosen for it. I plan to save the money for university as the course I would like to do, requires lots of various equipment.

I strongly recommend Year 11s to apply to Long Road because it is such a welcoming and relaxed community where you are treated as a young individual whose wellbeing and development is the number one priority. If you decide to apply to Long Road then I also recommend applying for the Scholars Award as it is a unique opportunity and a great source of motivation for achieving your desired GCSE grades.

My favourite thing about Long Road so far is how friendly everyone is and how attentive the teachers and staff are. Everyone is always ready to help and support you in any way they can. I also love the fact that all the teachers are very passionate about their subjects as it makes the lessons ten times better.

 Sharen

• Year 1
  Secondary School: The Netherhall School

• Studying: Biology A Level, Psychology A Level, Chemistry A Level

• Progression Goals: My aim is to do a degree in Medicine at University

I chose Long Road because I knew it would give be the best opportunity to develop both academically and as a person. Although I wasn’t able to attend the open evening due to COVID, I’m glad I chose long road as the atmosphere and the school itself was a perfect fit for me.

I chose to apply to the Long Road Scholars Award because I felt it would be a great opportunity for me to participate in an extracurricular and add to my personal statement. I plan on putting my money into savings for the time being as I don’t know what I will be doing with it yet. The Scholars Award is a good opportunity to make your opinions known and put input into making the sixth form a better place. It’s a great chance I think everyone should take.

Long Road is a very good place for you to further both your education and grow as a person as well, so I would recommend it to all year 11s looking to join sixth form. My favourite thing about being a Long Road student so far is the independence we get. You are in charge of making sure you are on time for your lessons and get your work done but unlike secondary you have free periods to study and much more freedom

Megan

• Year 1

• Secondary School: Bottisham Village College

• Studying: History A Level, French A Level, Sociology A Level

• Progression Goals: Gap year travelling and then University 

I chose to study at long road because it has a friendly and supportive atmosphere with specialist teachers which I felt was best suited to my way of learning, as well as offering language courses unlike some other colleges. Long Road also offers numerous extracurricular trips to expand your experiences.

Year 11s should apply to this college because it has a wide range of subjects and courses to choose from. There is something for everyone. The teachers are very enthusiastic and make sure you are engaged and understand the lessons and content and provide extra support should you need it. Attending Long Road has confirmed my initial expectations of the college: it is an inclusive community and both the students and staff are really friendly and will help you with anything you need. I’m also appreciating the variety of study spaces the college has to offer during my free periods.

The Scholar’s Award is an amazing opportunity that allows you to make an impact and a difference to the college. For me, it also gave addition motivation to work hard during my GCSEs to ensure I achieved the grades I needed. I plan to save the scholars' money for travelling when COVID is over, so I can improve my French language skills. I wasn’t sure I would be given the scholars award and so if you are in doubt, you should just apply for it.

Kirsty 

• Year 1

• Secondary School: Cambourne Village College

• Studying: Psychology A Level, Sport Level 3 Diploma

• Progression Goals: Physiotherapy / Sport Psychologist

I chose to study at Long Road as I know it offers such a huge range of courses that allows everyone to find a course that’s right for them. I was particularly interested in taking Applied Sport as it is something that I am hugely interested in and the coursework aspect of it allows me to work in a way that is best suited for me. My favourite thing about being a student at Long Road is that everyone is so kind. You get the chance to surround yourself with people like you, and you are free to choose how you shape your learning.

I chose to apply for the Scholar’s Award as I believe I can make a difference to college life by giving constructive feedback to ensure that the college is always giving to its full potential. I think it is important to share opinions and discuss what improvements can be made so that students feel as if they have a voice. I plan to spend my scholarship money on a new laptop – this will allow me to study at my best potential.

I would encourage any year 11s thinking about coming to Long Road to come, because it is such a unique environment. It is so independent that you choose how you want to learn, there are so many facilities that allow you to study how you like to, and the staff are completely supportive and are willing to put in their best efforts to allow you to get the best out of your education. I also encourage any year 11s to apply for the scholarship award, since it gives you the opportunity to share your voice and give any suggestions that you feel are necessary. 

James

• Year 1 

• Secondary School: Soham Village College

• Studying: Chemistry A Level, Biology A Level, Physics A Level

I chose to study at Long Road College because of the unique offers this college gives to its students. For example, there is the Med Squad which gives students like me a chance to get involved with what they want to do in the future.

I chose to apply for the Scholars award because I thought it would be interesting to be involved in the school and to help it improve. I plan to put my scholarship money into a saving account and put it towards university. I think to encourage year 11’s to apply, the scholars award should be presented to them a lot earlier maybe before GCSEs.

My favourite thing about being a Long student so far is the environment that I get to work in. All the teachers are fantastic, and the students here are so diverse and friendly.

 Flynn

• Year 1

• Secondary School: Marshland High School

• Studying: Maths A Level, Physics A Level, Psychology A Level

• Progression Goals: Study at University or join the Forces

Long Road was actually recommended to me by a friend who thought I would achieve my potential there more than anywhere else. After looking into it and doing some research about the college, I concluded that Long Road was the right place for me. They offered all the courses I wanted as well as being able to participate in team sports which was important to me. I decided on college as it encourages more independence which is something I wanted more than anything else and enabled me to express myself and become more confident overall. Staff and students alike are both welcoming and supportive and there are always new opportunities around the college. Despite my somewhat long commute to the college I am so glad that I chose to study at Long Road.

I applied for the Scholars Award as I see it as an opportunity to find my voice in the new environment as well as allowing me to contribute back to the college. I have gained more confidence through applying and this has really enhanced my experience so far at Long Road. It gave me a huge sense of achievement when I got it and I think that’s a good reason for applying as it gives you something to work for. I plan on spending the money on resources for my education as well as putting some aside for any upcoming college trips.

Choosing to come to Long Road was one of the best decisions for me. I would encourage all the year 11’s to apply as it is a much more an independent atmosphere where you are treated as a young adult and not just a student. They offer great support and careers advice with people who are easy to relate to, and therefore I feel more secure in what I plan to do after Long Road. There are a range of subjects and extracurricular activities/groups that are extremely supportive and accepting which is something that is important to me. This projects a safe and comfortable environment where it is encouraging to get on with work.

As for applying to the Scholar Award; to any year 11’s thinking about applying, just go for it. I had no idea I would get it, but it has definitely had a positive impact on my college experience.

Rosie

• Year 1

• Secondary School: Melbourn Village College

• Studying: Biology A Level, Psychology A Level, Criminology Extended Certificate

I chose to study at long road as I felt it was a welcoming place that achieved good grades whilst also providing support to students. It also offers criminology which I thought looked very interesting, and it’s a subject which is not offered at many places. I am really enjoying all my subjects at Long Road. The teachers are great and provide you with everything you need to get the best possible grades. There also lots of good study and outdoor spaces. One of my favourite things at Long Road has been the A level Biology course. I was unsure before I started whether I would enjoy it, but it is now my favourite subject as the course and department are both great.

I applied for the Scholars’ award as I thought it would help enhance my CV and give me opportunities within school. I might use some scholarship money for travelling when I leave Long Road but for the moment, I will put it into savings. It provides a goal to work towards when doing your GCSEs. Also, it gives you money to put towards something you enjoy or to help with future plans whilst making your CV stand out.

Eda

• Year 1

• Secondary School: Ark Elvin Academy

• Studying: Chemistry A Level, Biology A Level, Maths A Level

• Progression Goals: Medicine

I chose to study at Long Road because of its flexible timetable which allows you to be in charge of your own learning time. I believe this gives you more freedom on how to spend your time efficiently. 

I applied for Scholars Award because I thought that it would allow me to demonstrate my abilities and get me involved in volunteering events. I am planning to spend my scholarship money on learning resources such as past papers and revision guides.

If you are considering applying to Long Road, I believe you should apply for Scholars Award as it will allow your CV to stand out for your further applications to universities and will give you additional money to spend on additional learning resources so that you can consolidate your knowledge.

My favourite thing about Long Road is the subject teachers being supportive by leaving comments and corrections to every single piece of work you do in class or as a homework which helps you to learn from your mistakes and improve your grades.

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 Dominic

• Year 1

• Secondary School: Witchford Village College

• Studying: Psychology A Level, Geography A level, Criminology Level 3 Extended Certificate

• Progression Goals: Psychotherapist

I chose to study at Long Road because it offers the perfect courses for me which will help me get to the next stage in my life. I love the college’s relaxed and friendly approach to learning, as well as the great additional support you can get if you need it; the college has a very diverse way of learning that can be tailored to you. The college is very good at helping new starters and helping push them into a more independent way of studying which works really well. Long Road also provides lots of useful help on lesson work and guidance on future ambitions. If these things apply to you, you should definitely enrol at Long Road.

 I applied for the Scholars Award because it gave me a goal to work towards during the tricky year 11 experience, and so when I got it, I felt a huge confidence boost and a great sense of achievement. Winning the award has really helped my CV stand out, making me more attractive to universities and jobs in the future. I would encourage you to apply for this too, as it will reward all of your excellent hard work and will give you such a sense of pride in yourself, which is an excellent confidence boost as you move on and develop as a person while at college.

My favourite part about studying at long road so far is that not only do I really enjoy the courses I chose, and the independent way of studying at college, but the confidence knowing that there is excellent additional support available for any needs I should have. My advice is to choose the Sixth Form that would best suit you, and long road has ticked all the boxes for me so far!

Abbie

• Year 1

• Secondary School: Newmarket Academy

• Studying: Maths A Level, Business A Level, Economics A Level

• Progression Goals: Finance and Asset Management

Due to the COVID restrictions, the first time I actually stepped foot in the college was the first day of term. During the virtual guidance meeting process, my interviewer was very relaxed and friendly, whilst also having taken the time to look through my application in depth. She asked me lots of questions about my hobbies, making suggestions as to how Long Road could help me fulfil my long term goals, not just academically, and introduced me to their scholar award. This was a huge source of motivation for me, and an additional goal to work towards through my GCSEs'. It felt like a huge achievement when I was offered the scholarship, and has proved to me that I really can do something, when I put my mind to it. I am planning on putting the scholarship money towards travelling and widening my economics knowledge in new places around the world. 

I would encourage year 11’s to apply to Long Road because of the wide variety of courses, and the incredible support system that the college offers. From the very first day, the teachers and progress coaches are pushing you to achieve your full potential, whilst also helping you plan your next steps after you finish your A-levels. Applying for the scholar award is a fantastic idea because you have the chance to become part of a like-minded group, and hopefully, if successful, it is another accomplishment that can be added to your CV for future employers/universities.

My favourite thing about being a Long Road student is the balance of independence and support I receive from my teachers. It makes me more driven to study, and it’s comforting knowing that if I need anything, I have a range of people I can go to for guidance.

Lucy

• Year 1

• Secondary School: Stratton Upper School

• Studying: French A Level, Media A Level, Psychology A Level

• Progression Goals: Gap year, then University

I chose to study at Long Road as even though the Open Evening was online due to COVID, the college seemed to have a really warm and welcoming environment. Long Road offered French as an A-Level whereas my secondary school did not. Also, everybody was very friendly and these were all important factors for me. 

I chose to apply for the Scholars Award because it’s a great opportunity to share my views and contribute to the college. I was not expecting to be chosen, but I am very grateful that I have been, and it gave me a great sense of achievement, so I would encourage all year 11s to apply. I plan on spending my money on a trip to France or a French-speaking country (through Long Road or on my own) as it would help a lot with my French A-Level and would be a great experience for me. 

My favourite thing about Long Road so far is the people. I have made so many friends and everybody is really kind and approachable. I also like how independent you have to be at Long Road as it was a big change from secondary school, but I have enjoyed this new challenge. I would encourage year 11s to apply to Long Road as it is a great opportunity to become more independent, find new interests and meet new people. 

Destiny

• Year 1

• Secondary School: Linton Village College

• Studying: Maths A Level, Chemistry A Level, Biology A level

• Progression Goals: Research Scientist or Psychiatrist

I chose to study at Long Road because of the welcoming atmosphere and support I felt whilst studying and doing something I loved. I think Year 11s should apply to Long Road as it is a great community with lots of facilities and opportunities to either keep options open or try new things within your interest. The teachers are very approachable, and you are able to meet a lot of new people with similar goals to you. My favourite thing about Long Road so far is the extracurricular activities and the depth of information in my lessons as they can be quite fascinating.

I applied for the Scholar’s Award as it would look good on CV’s and university applications. I encourage Year 11’s to apply for the scholar’s award as it is a great opportunity to push yourself at GCSE and will aid in future applications such as university. Furthermore, you can use the money to further aid your education such as investing in a laptop.

Kayleigh-Ann

• Year 1

• Secondary School: The Highfield School, Letchworth

• Studying: Biology A Level, Chemistry A Level, Maths A Level, Further Maths A Level

• Progression Goals: I would like to become a Biomedical Scientist after receiving a Master’s Degree or higher

I chose to study at Long Road because I believe that Long Road would challenge me into stepping outside my comfort zone, and would provide me with an environment in which I could thrive and reach my potential.

I found out about the Scholars Award shortly after I applied. I decided to take the opportunity of applying as I knew it would require me to push myself and would motivate me to be the best I possibly can be. My scholarship money will be spent on transport to and from college, as well as supplied to help me with my courses. I believe that the Scholars Award is for students wishing to progress and excel in their academic career, as well as learn essential skills to help further in adult life. It is an amazing opportunity.

I would encourage anyone who can study at Long Road to apply! The quality and support provided in the various courses is incredible, and the college culture is very diverse and dynamic. There is always something for everyone, which I think is a very positive aspect of the college. Personally, I love being a Long Road student. There truly is something for everyone. The opportunities I am getting are truly amazing, and I can be myself at Long Road. A year ago I never thought I would be where I am today, with the opportunities given to me.

Clara

• Year 2

• Secondary School: Parkside Community College

• Studying: Chemistry A Level, Biology A Level, Psychology A Level

• Progression Goals: Medicine

My favourite thing about being a Long Road student has been the support offered and the friendly atmosphere. My advice to year 1 students is to make sure you have a good understanding of the year 1 content, because it will make year 2 so much easier to get your head around.

I’ve spent some of my scholarship money on books about medicine and being a doctor, but I am saving the rest for uni. I’m working towards my career goals by doing work experience, reading and attending meetings with Med Squad.

Finn

• Year 2

• Secondary School: Linton Village College

• Studying: Biology A Level, Chemistry A Level, Economics A Level

• Progression Goals: BSc Economics at university

My favourite thing about being a Long Road student is having good relationships with everyone at school. All the teachers are very supportive and will help with anything you need, whilst also treating you as an adult. The students are all very friendly as well and make sure that no one is left out.

My advice to year 1 students is to put yourself out there and talk to new people. Everyone is very kind, and all want to meet new people as well. Plus, the more people you know, the easier it is to meet even more people and get a true sense of the Long Road community.

I’m planning to save my scholar money, so I have extra funds to spend at university. Therefore, I will likely spend it on everyday living costs such as food and going out at night.

To work towards my progression and career goals I have been visiting university open days and using websites such as the UCAS website to decide which courses and universities would be best for what I want to do in future work. I have also started to work on my personal statement early, to give me the best chance of getting into the university I decide to go to.

Olivia

• Year 2

• Secondary School: Saint Bede’s Inter-Church School

• Studying: Maths A Level, Physics A Level, Computing Level 3 Extended Certificate

• Progression Goals: Pilot / Aerospace Engineer

One of the best things about being a student at college is how the staff see us students as equals. Because of this, I feel more comfortable to seek help and ask questions since I know I won’t be looked down upon for needing support. I also appreciate how our progress coaches are very hands-on when it comes to providing us with the information we need to decide on what we want to do after leaving Long Road.

I would highly encourage year 11s to apply to Long Road if they are looking for a welcoming learning environment where they can grow as individuals.

 Lily

• Year 2

• Secondary School: Saint Bede’s Inter-Church School

• Studying: Sociology A Level, English Literature A Level, Photography A Level

• Progression Goals: Gap year followed by studying an English Literature degree at university. Career goal is to become a Primary or Secondary School teacher. 

My favourite thing about Long Road is really enjoying having more free time! It’s made me feel more confident going into university as I know I’ll manage the fewer contact hours, and I’ve been able to get a part-time job. My advice to Year 1 students is learn how you revise effectively, and work hard for all your assessments, you’ll feel a lot more confident for your end of year exams if you know that you have all the resources and have already started memorising everything!

How do I plan to spend my scholarship money? Driving lessons! 

I am working towards my progression goals by reading books outside of college in similar genres or from a similar time, and in my gap year I plan to get a childcare related job.

Tess

• Year 2

• Secondary School: Bottisham Village College

• Studying: Maths A Level, Biology A Level, Criminology Level 3 Extended Certificate

My favourite thing about being a Long Road student is the freedom you have when choosing how to study, where to go when you’re not in class and how helpful the teachers are when you’re struggling.

My advice to the new Year 1 students is to be brave and be yourself. Somebody must be the first to speak, let it be you and never let your voice go unheard. If you have a problem, share it. Problems don’t just disappear and there are always people around you who can help. Be kind and helpful to others, and they will be kind back. Having a positive attitude will help you make friends and have a positive experience.

I have put my scholarship money towards my laptop. I’m currently unsure what I want to do next in terms of progression, so I’m just making sure that I work hard and keep my grades up.

Maia

• Year 2

• Secondary School: Stour Valley Community School

• Studying: Biology A Level, History A Level, PE A Level

• Progression Goals: Sport and Exercise Science Degree

My favourite thing about being a Long Road student is the atmosphere, everyone is super friendly and kind. My advice to year 1 students would be to enjoy it as much as possible, it will be over before you know it.

I have spent my scholarship money on a laptop for my college work, which helped with my online lessons and coursework.

I have been working towards university by attending open days and online webinars. Learning as much about each university as possible makes it much easier to choose which one is best for you.

Millie

• Year 2

• Secondary School: Hedingham School

• Studying: Art A Level Graphic Design Level 3 Extended Certificate, Business Studies A Level

• Progression Goals: I would like to study a design course at university the next few years.

What has been your favourite thing about being a Long Road student? The courses are so interesting and enjoyable, the support that the college offers is amazing, the teachers are so understanding when you talk to them.

What is your advice to Year 1 Long Road students? If you are struggling, don’t be scared to let someone know, there are so many ways they can help.

How have you spent/planning to spend your scholarship money? I spent my money on a computer for school, it turned out to be essential during online classes and work, it has also help to give me the resources and the accessibility I need to succeed.

How are you working towards you progression/career goals? I am working hard in my relevant lessons and achieving my goals, I have applied for my chosen course and have been researching potential university courses.

 Yve

• Year 2

• Secondary School: Soham Village College

• Studying: Graphic Design Level 3 Extended Certificate, French A Level, Art A Level

• Progression Goals: Art Foundation Course at Long Road, then a degree at Norwich University of the Arts

My favourite part of studying at Long Road has been the friends I have met here because they have been really supportive and friendly. They have helped me feel more confident and feel like I belong.

My advice for Year 1 students would be to put in as much effort as you can in class, because that makes working outside of class easier and you will have less work to catch up on. I would also say it is important to not fall behind in coursework because it is much more manageable (and much less stressful) to do it in small amounts as you go along.

I spent my scholarship money on a laptop which I use to do my graphic design work. It has been really helpful to be able to do a lot of my graphics work from home, as I can work on other things in study periods and plus time.

I am working towards my progression goals by working hard in my subjects and trying to gain the skills I will need to study at university. I have also been to a lot of open days and taster workshops from my chosen universities which I have really enjoyed and have made me excited for my next steps.

Daisy

• Year 2

• Secondary School: Chesterton Community College

• Studying: Biology A Level, Psychology A Level, Politics A Level

• Progression Goals: Biology degree

I have really enjoyed the friendly atmosphere, that is my favourite thing about being a Long Road student. My advice to Year 1 students is to make sure that you are organised and plan how you use your time.

I am currently working towards my progression goals by taking an online Biology course and doing lots of further reading relating to Biology.

My scholarship is currently in a savings account until I decide how to best spend it. 

Mila

• Year 2

• Secondary School: Chesterton Community College

• Studying: English Literature A Level, Art A Level, Spanish A Level

• Progression Goals: Possibly study abroad! 

I know for certain that the thing I will take with me once I leave Long will be all the amazing people I’ve met, both the teachers and classmates who have inspired me to work and achieve throughout these two years. The campus has some beautiful areas and is a wonderful place to learn. My advice to people who start Long Road is keep a map of the campus handy if your secondary was small.

I plan to spend my scholarship money on little personal projects that will probably include knitting and patchwork blankets.

As for the future, I am taking a break to consider choices for university as I am thinking about studying abroad. In the meantime I hope to continue working in a bookshop and carry on with my hobbies.

Izzy 

• Year 2

• Secondary School: The Kings School, Peterborough

• Studying: English Literature A level, Biology A Level, Geography A Level

• Progression Goals: Study an English Literature degree at university

So far, my scholarship money hasn’t been spent as I intended to use it as a contribution to an Iceland trip to further my understanding of glaciers in geography. But due to COVID-19 that wasn’t possible, so it’s been in savings for the time being. Although university is in less than a year, so I might allocate some scholarship money towards living costs and the book budget, since I will be purchasing a lot of books for my English undergraduate course.

Right now I’m completing my UCAS application to apply to uni’s for English literature which I hope to use for literacy programmes in Jamaican schools possibly.

Advice I would give to Year 1 Long Road students would be to take advantage of all opportunities Long Road can give. The clubs, societies and facilities are there to use and can be a great way to make friends or find something you’re passionate about.

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Paloma

• Year 2

• Secondary School: Cottenham Village College

• Studying: Physics A Level, Chemistry A Level, Maths A Level, Further Maths A Level 

• Progression Goals: Materials Science and Engineering at university

It has been a real privilege to participate in different activities offered by the college, including clubs and sports. The support of the staff and teachers is literally the best, always encouraging us to succeed. My advice to Year 1 students it to commit and do your part and the college will be with you all the way through.

I have used my scholarship money for research materials, and education-related fees (such as university misc. charges, books for my A-levels, seminars, and an online materials science and engineering course, etc.) I am working towards my progression goals by submitting my application to universities, as I wish to study materials science and engineering at university.

Poppy

• Year 2

• Secondary School: King James Academy Royston

• Studying: Maths A Level, Further Maths A level, PE A Level, Psychology A Level, EPQ

• Progression Goals: Career in the Criminal Justice System

I have loved being a part of an enthusiastic environment and the support here is incredible. As I said before, the passion and enthusiasm of my teachers allows for engaging lessons and us to delve deeper into our subjects even outside the syllabus.

My advice to Year 1 students is to ask for help in your subjects! It might get quite overwhelming, and I’ve found using the Subject + time has really enhanced my knowledge and how I structure exam questions. It’s better that your teachers understand what areas you are struggling with, so they can explain in a different way.

I plan on saving my scholarship money to help with any future courses I might take on at Uni. I am currently working hard to get my A-Level grades, external Psychology courses, work experience. 

Gui

• Year 2

• Secondary School: Chesterton Community College

• Studying: Maths A Level, Further Maths A level, Physics A Level, Psychology A Level

• Progression Goals: Study a Psychology degree at University

My favourite thing about Long Road is that whenever I’ve had any problem during a lesson or with a subject, my teachers have been supportive and helped me solve them and get better at my subjects. My advice to Year  students is to speak to your teachers! If you’re having trouble with anything, they will help you if you ask. 

I have been saving up my scholarship to buy an 8-string guitar, though I may simply use it for my university budget. I’m working towards my progression goals by preparing for my mocks and final A Level exams, so I can get the grades I need for University!

Jess

• Year 2

• Secondary School: St Marys School, Cambridge

• Studying: Biology A Level, Chemistry A Level, Psychology A Level

• Progression Goals: Medicine

My favourite thing about being a long road student has definitely been the supportive and friendly environment at the college. All the teachers are so helpful and dedicated to ensuring that you achieve your best.

My advice to the year 1 students would be to say yes to the extracurricular opportunities presented to you. Not only do they look great on your personal statement or CV, it’s an amazing way to make friends with people outside your lessons.

Since my goal is to study medicine at university, I have done both virtual and in person work experience, for example shadowing a GP. Additionally, I have completed further reading outside of school surrounding medical topics, attended the Long Road Med Squad meetings, and done some volunteering in preparation for med school.

I have saved my scholarship money so that I can put it towards the costs of studying at university.

 Nathy

• Year 2

• Secondary School: Swavesey Village College 

• Studying: Biology A Level, Chemistry A Level, PE A Level

• Progression Goals: Doctor

There are several reasons why I enjoy being a student at Long Road. Firstly, the teachers are all very passionate about their subjects. They are keen to talk to me not only about the course, but also on any additional aspect of the subject. For example, my biology teacher pointed out an opportunity with the Cambridge Science Festival which took a surprising turn, leading us members involved to visit a science lab. Along with this, LRSF has a lot of clubs which are all different so it wasn’t hard to find one that suited me. I also enjoy Long Road as being in a large campus has given me the chance to meet lots of new people with likeminded goals, interests, and hobbies.

My advice to Year 1 students is be proactive. Raise your hand to a new opportunity, join some of the many clubs LRSFC has to offer, and do not procrastinate when making revision notes outside of class. Although it may feel challenging to keep on top of your workload at first, doing little amounts often is easier to cope with than a lot in one go.

I am hoping to spend the money to go on holiday where there are blue skies and crystal beaches with friends after I have finished my A-Levels!

To help me keep on top of what I should do for medicine, I have joined the Long Road Med Squad. This group has given me advice on every aspect of the application process which has been valuable in looking in the right directions to help my application stand out. For example, I have had talks, webinars, and personal statement support which have helped me reach the stage I am currently at. Whilst still unsure if I have got a place at medical school, I am very excited to see what the future holds in my journey to become a doctor!

Phoebe

• Year 2

• Secondary School:  Witchford Village College

• Studying: Maths A Level, Further Maths A Level, Film Studies A Level, Psychology A Level

• Progression Goals: Gap year and then University

One of my favourite things about being a Long Road Student is how kind and supportive everyone else is, both the students and members of staff/teachers. If you have any questions or issues there is always someone there who can help you.

My advice to Year 1 Long Road Students would be make sure you balance studying and social life to make sure you have time for homework and revising, while still being able to pursue hobbies or hanging out with your friends. As well as this, make sure you understand the content you are learning as you go along, even if it means asking a teacher for help.

I am planning to either spend some of my scholarship money during my gap year to do something different or for it to go towards university tuition.

I’m working towards my career goals by making sure I research all my options to make sure I do the course that I prefer the most and that allows me to achieve my potential.

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Lauren

• Year 2

• Secondary School: Soham Village College

• Studying: English Language & Literature A Level, Psychology A Level, Media A Level

I’ve really enjoyed the freedom to engage in just the subjects we like in particular, and also the flexibility of the timetable to make a day at college productive in terms of studies but also enjoyable with friends. My advice to the new Year 1 students is to use your self-studies effectively because the more material for revision you have, the easier it is!

I spent some of my scholarship money towards a laptop which helped me to organise my studies, particularly during the lockdown/ week-on week-off system we had. I plan on buying some revision resources with the rest of my money, in order to aid revision for my upcoming exams.

I intend on going into employment and taking a gap year, so I’ve been doing things to help my CV and also keeping my options open by exploring lots of different career options/ degree options too.

Lexi

•  Year 2

• Secondary School: The Thomas Alleyne Academy

• Studying: Criminology Extended Certificate, Photography A Level, Business A Level

• Progression Goals: Gap year and University or apprenticeship in Law 

My favourite things about being a Long Road student is that there is a tremendous amount of support and advice from your teachers and progress coaches. I know that if I have a problem and need advice or if I need help when deciding universities or apprenticeship options I know exactly who to go to, and they are always happy to help in every way they can.  My advice to Year 1 students is stay on top of your work in the first year because it really helps when it comes to cracking down and revision in the second year, but don’t forget to also have fun and enjoy the college experience! Take every opportunity that is given to you and try out as many things as possible, that’s what college is for in my opinion.

With my scholarship money I plan on buying a new lens for my camera that is going to help with my second year of photography, but it will also help as I go into my gap year as I will be able to use it when I go travelling. I am currently working on revising for my A-levels and focussing on getting the best grades I can to give me better options once my gap year is over, they hopefully will help within my gap year as well as I could be given better opportunities when getting a job to save up money for travelling.

Grace

• Year 2

• Secondary School: Soham Village College

• Studying: Graphic Design Extended Certificate, Film Studies A Level, Drama & Theatre A Level

• Progression Goals: Graphic Designer

So far, I have really enjoyed the environment at Long Road because you always feel supported but still independent and overall, the atmosphere is really positive and friendly.  I am applying for three Graphic Design undergraduate courses at different universities. I am also looking into different apprenticeships and deciding which option will be best for me.

My advice to Year 1 students would be to organise your work and set aside a certain time each week (either in a free period or by coming into college early) to just catch up on any work you have. Another thing I would advise is to start thinking about things such as work experience and university open days as early as possible.

I have used some of my scholarship money to buy a digital drawing tablet for my graphic design work. I have decided to save the rest for now.

Olly

• Year 2

• Secondary School: St Clements High School

• Studying: Media Level 3 Extended Diploma

• Progression Goals: Study a degree in Visual Effects at university 

My favourite thing about Long Road is the environment and atmosphere around the college. There is always a buzz in the air that makes being in and around college feel great! I also love the people at school, all the teachers and students are all brilliant to speak to about anything.

Advice I would give to year 1 students is to make friends with people in your class and do things with them outside of school. I think this is important to build friendships and with make you enjoy your lessons much more.

I have been spending my scholarship money on transport to and from collage.

I have been doing lots of things towards my progression goals. I have attended a lot of open days so I can speak to course leaders and get a good feel for the university and it’s atmosphere. I have also been doing a lot of work at home to build my portfolio so I can showcase my skills in interviews.