Two pupils in Upper Sixth are celebrating after securing offers to study at one of the most prestigious universities in the world.
Both girls have been offered places at the renowned all-female Newnham College, which was established in 1871 as part of the historic University of Cambridge.
April, is taking A Levels in English Literature, Psychology and Drama and Theatre Studies, and wants to study Education at Cambridge, with ambitions to work in educational psychology. April often volunteers at a specialist school in Gateshead where she has seen first-hand how strategies from educational psychologists help students.
She said: “I’m autistic myself which has always inspired a curiosity for me about the different ways that people perceive and interact with the world. I find Educational Psychology in particular really fascinating. When I was volunteering, I could see the positive impacts that research in this field can have for children, and I knew that I wanted to contribute to that.
April, who joined DHS in Reception, enjoys the family atmosphere of the school and is looking forward to playing Orpheus in the upcoming show Hadestown at the Gala Theatre, in Durham, next month.
“With Durham High being smaller, you know everyone here so it doesn’t feel too overwhelming,” she said. “I’ve loved the opportunity to explore things, such as drama and the performing arts. Even though I’ve gone down the academic route, performing gives me time away from studying. It’s a nice balance.”
The school helped April prepare for her interview at Cambridge with a mock interview in school and she also received tailored support with her personal statement and UCAS application.
“My teachers have been brilliant, helping to push me and making sure I was getting all the support I needed,” she added.
“I couldn’t believe it when I saw the offer, I was so shocked. I’m really proud and excited and my family are proud too.”
Michelle Hill, Headmistress at Durham High School, said: “We’re incredibly proud of both our pupils who have received their Cambridge offers, and our other students who are looking to attend top universities across the country. Being able to enjoy so many co-curricular clubs here, including singing and acting, is great for our students’ mental health, ensuring they learn how to balance their academic efforts while enjoying themselves.”
