Their paths may be different, but both have made the most of the opportunities Roedean has offered them, discovering their individual interests, developing their confidence and building the skills to take their next steps.

Olivia achieved three A grades in Geography, Politics and Philosophy, alongside an A in her EPQ, securing her place to study Law at Exeter. Her passion for Law has been developing for several years, and during Year 12 she successfully ran the School’s Law Society. Alongside her academic achievements, Olivia has embraced the many opportunities Roedean has offered, from performing in the Theatre to taking part in charity fundraising.

One experience stands out above all others: Roedean’s annual trip to Moldova, where pupils teach English to Ukrainian refugee children. For Olivia, the opportunity became a defining part of her time at Roedean.

“I was lucky enough to have the chance to go to Moldova last year, and I think that really made my Roedean journey. It doesn’t feel real to be leaving, I have been here since Year 7, so it just feels like I’m going to come back in September.”

Ellen’s journey has taken a different path. During her time at Roedean, she discovered a particular passion and talent for music. From choirs and orchestras to performing in almost every musical ensemble, Ellen has embraced every opportunity to develop as a musician. She has also played an important part in significant School occasions, including playing the Last Post on Remembrance Days, and gave a memorable farewell performance of Delibes’ iconic Flower Duet at Speech Day.

Her progress has been remarkable and, in the Sixth Form, she chose to pursue Voice, taking her passion to the next level. Alongside her musical achievements, Ellen achieved A*AB in Politics, Music and French. In September, she will begin the next stage of her musical education at the Royal Academy of Music.

“Roedean was amazing in supporting me in this journey in deciding to study Music at a Conservatoire. I was in choirs, orchestras, and able to perform in the Brighton Festival Fringe Concert, which helped me to move into my next stage of development at Conservatoire.” 

The Roedean journey, from Year 7 through to the Sixth Form, gives pupils the time and space to grow, discover what inspires them and develop the confidence to pursue their ambitions. Over seven years, the support of teachers and the wider School community helps turn a new environment into a place that feels like home, while the friendships formed along the way become an enduring part of school life and beyond.

Olivia and Ellen’s stories show just how different those journeys can be. From Law at the University of Exeter to Voice at the Royal Academy of Music, each has found her own direction while making the most of the opportunities Roedean has offered. Their experiences are a reminder that there is no single path through School, only the opportunity to discover what you love and where it might take you.

As they look ahead to their next chapters, we are delighted to celebrate everything Olivia and Ellen have achieved and wish them every success for the future. Although their paths are taking them in different directions, the friendships, experiences and memories they have made at Roedean will remain with them as they begin this exciting next stage.