STEM Ambitions - Routes to Success

August 19, 2026

At Norwich School, STEM learning extends far beyond the classroom. Through outstanding facilities in Horsefair House and inspiring teaching, pupils develop the confidence to investigate, experiment and excel. There is no question that this was reflected in this year’s A Level results. So, we caught up with just a few of our scientists to find out what’s next for them.

Emmanuel Milne - Medicine at Cardiff

Emmanuel joined Norwich School for Sixth Form and made the most of the opportunities on offer. He studied Biology, Chemistry and Maths, achieving a respective A*AA at A Level. Alongside his studies he was heavily involved in co-curricular life, a loyal member of the choir Close Shaves and taking part in Jazz Night, Musical Theatre Nights and various concerts throughout the year. After Norwich School, he will be volunteering in Thailand for a gap year and then going onto Cardiff University to study Medicine, with the hopes of becoming a GP. Emmanuel has taken this path in hopes to help and serve people. This has been reflected through his role as a Senior Prefect Red Gown, supporting the Pastoral Prefects and encouraging peer support school wide.

Here's what Emmanuel said he loved the most about being a pupil at Norwich School - "The community and friends … and the food. I am also looking forward to ON activities and staying connected."

Tom Irvine - Medicine at Cambridge

Tom Irvine joined Norwich School in Lower 1 and has been an active member of school life throughout his time here and leaves with 11 years' worth of fond memories. Tom ended his Norwich School journey as a Senior Prefect Red Gown with an interest in expanding participation in co-curricular life at the school. Tom has always been involved in Music at Norwich School – particularly in the Jazz Band and choirs. Alongside this, Tom is a keen sportsman, a valued member of the Boys 1st XI Hockey team and Captain for the 25/26 Academic Year. At A Level Tom studied triple science; Biology, Chemistry and Physics and achieved triple A*. In September, Tom will be going to the University of Cambridge to study Medicine with the aim of becoming a consultant. Medicine was the clear choice for Tom due to its combination of science and human interaction; you can help people whilst continuously learning.

Tom describes his experience at Norwich School in one word - 'Memories'.

India-Rose Fox – Medicine at Nottingham

India-Rose Fox joined Norwich School in Lower 1 and has taken part in every aspect of school life. India was a sports scholar, a dedicated member of the Girls 1st XI Cricket team, the Girls 1st XI Hockey team and the Girls' 1st XI Football team, truly a triple threat. Alongside this, India has taken part in the Senior School musicals as well as various other productions in her earlier years and singing in the Senior Girls Choir G-Force. She was a Senior Prefect Red Gown with a focus on Pupil Participation, incredibly fitting given her contribution to all aspects of Norwich School life. Despite being heavily involved in co-curricular life, this hasn't taken away from her academics, studying Biology, Chemistry and Maths and achieving A*A*A respectively. She is now going on to study Medicine at Nottingham University with the hopes of becoming a surgeon. This career path was found through a combination of factors but notably her work experience where she enjoyed seeing the difference that doctors make firsthand.

Here's what India loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School: " The opportunity to do literally everything I want – whether that’s sport, music or other things I’ve been involved in. It’s all been possible, alongside studies."

Sruthi Santosh – Medicine at UCL

Sruthi Santosh has been at Norwich School since Fifth Form and ended her time as Nelson House Captain, a role model for members in her house from Lower 4 and above. Sruthi studied Biology, Psychology and Chemistry at A Level achieving a respective A*A*A which will take her to UCL to study Medicine. Sruthi has always wanted to study medicine and her time at Norwich School has only clarified this. She did her Community Service with Able2B, enjoying working with children and actively making a difference, which led her onto the discovery that she might specialise in children's medicine. Despite her academic commitments, Sruthi has still been an active member of performing arts at Norwich School – taking part in various school musicals and a valued member of the Senior Dance Company. Alongside this, she is also a keen hockey player.

Here's what Sruthi loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School: "The opportunities. Being able to do a wide range of things from volunteering to musicals and sport. Plus making so many friends."

Isio Emore - Medicine at UCL

Isio Emore joined Norwich School in Lower 4 and has been prominent member of the community throughout her time here. Isio has enjoyed being a key member of the U19 Netball squad at Norwich School, her time culminating in going to Nationals and achieving an impressive placing of 11th in the country; Isio described this experience as 'magical'. Isio has also been involved in the clubs and societies programme, specifically green group. Isio studied Biology, Maths and Chemistry at A Level, achieving A*A*A respectively, which gave her a place at UCL to study Medicine in September. What drew Isio to Medicne was the various career paths that it offers such as clinical work, medical technology and start-ups, a medical degree can open many more doors than just being a doctor. Isio isn't entirely sure what the future holds with ambitions of becoming a doctor or an entrepreneur.

Isio says what she will miss the most about Norwich School is " The whole Norwich School experience; the buildings, the memories, the friends, the familiarity of every day – it feels like home."

Georgia Lloyd - Psychological and Behavioural Science at Cambridge

Georgia LLoyd joined Norwich School in Lower 4 and since then has been an active member of the school community. She studied PRE, Psychology and Maths at A Level and achieved triple A*, which granted her a place at the University of Cambridge to study Psychological and Behavioural Science. Georgia has gone down this path due to a fascination of the link between science and philosophy; her interests bridge the gap between traditional science and the social sciences. With this, there is an array of career options for Georgia such as continuing her academic pursuits into research, counselling and plenty more. Georgia has taken part in the performing arts programme, enjoying annual highlights such as Gala Night, the Senior Dance Festival and Jazz Night.

Georgia's fondest memory of Norwich School was "Helping lead house shout and coming 7th but having a great time doing it. We sang Paradise by George Ezra."

Josie Dixon - Marine Biology at St Andrews

Josie Dixon joined Norwich School in Lower 4 and ended her time with being Parker House Captain, leading and supporting pupils' school wide. Josie has valued co-curricular life at Norwich School; a dedicated member of the Girls U19 Netball squad, to which she said, " Getting to the national netball finals was incredible – especially that we finally managed to do it in our last year." Additionally, she plays the bassoon and has been an integral part of the school's Green Group. Josie studied Biology, Maths and Physics and achieved A*A*A respectively. She is continuing her studies in Marine Biology at St Andrews in hopes to become a Marine Biologist specialising in marine mammals; only 5% of it is discovered, leaving plenty to be explored.

Here is what Josie has loved the most about being a pupil Norwich School; " The sense of community and all the opportunities. "

Jeremy Lo – Computer Science at Bristol

Jeremy Lo joined Norwich School in Fifth Form and has enjoyed being part of the school community, with staff and pupils alike. Jeremy has thrived in music at Norwich School as well as the Cross Country - particularly noting the " camaraderie of fellow pupils and coaches supporting and cheering for you on". A highlight of Jeremy's time at Norwich school was a Chinese New Year Cathedral service where he sang alongside another pupil in the pulpit, a truly memorable occasion. Jeremy studied Maths, Physics and Computer Science at A Level and is going on to Bristol to study Computer Science with hopes to go onto Cyber Security at GSHQ or coming back to school to teach.

"Friends, and people in general, especially staff such as Mr Hudson and Miss Seago" Is what Jeremy will miss the most at Norwich School.

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STEM Success - From Ambition to Achievement

By Eleanor Lewis • August 19, 2026

Norwich School is thrilled to have achieved the best A Level results in the county: 24% A*; 53% A*-A; 80% A*-B; 92% A*-C. If we focus on STEM subjects, the results are even better, with 31% at A* and 65% at A*-A. Maths, Biology, Physics, Chemistry and Computer Science form an important part of our 6th Form offer, with just under 200 of our 500 U6 grades in these subjects. The raw numbers are 62 A* and 66 A grades which have led to a huge number of exciting onward STEM routes. Overall, over 75% (123 pupils) have got to their first choice onward route, with over 90% (over 150 pupils) to first or second choice. The STEM outcomes are even more eye-catching: 87% of STEM places accepted were at Russell Group universities; 5 out 5 STEM Oxbridge candidates successfully made their offers (with a total of 17 A* out of 18 grades!) 7 out of 8 (88%) of medics got into their first choice university (national average of 33%); 2 out of 2 (100%) of vets got their first choice; 11 out of 11 engineers (100%) were accepted onto Engineering courses (university or apprenticeship); 6 out 6 Computer Science applicants (100%) were accepted onto Computer Science courses; If you are interested in STEM for Sixth Form, join the best and study at Norwich School: outstanding STEM facilities; expert teachers and strong laboratory ratios; personalised provision and onward route guidance; unrivalled STEM enrichment opportunities, including: clubs and societies (MedSoc, Maths Club, F24 car, Chess Club); Olympiad preparation; independent project; community service. To hear about some of our STEM Successes from this year's cohort click here. Interested in studying STEM at Norwich School? Book a tour today - places available from September 2026! Contact admissions@norwich-school.org.uk.

One School. Many Routes.

By Eleanor Lewis • August 13, 2026

A Level results day is always an emotional occasion, and this year was no different. For the Class of 2026, it marked the culmination of two years of dedication, perseverance and hard work and there was much to celebrate. From pupils who have been with us from Lower 1 to those who have joined us for Sixth Form, it is inspiring to hear their reflections of their time in Cathedral Close and learn about their planned next steps. We caught up with just a few of this year’s leavers to find out more about their individual journey.

2026 A Level Exam Results

By Eleanor Lewis • August 13, 2026

The school is pleased to announce strong A Level results. The cohort of Upper 6 candidates have achieved the following: 24% of grades at A*; 53% of grades at A*-A; 80% at A*-B; 92% at A*-C; 98% at A*-E. Outstanding individual performances included: 2 candidates with 4 A*; 12 candidates with 3A* or more; 52 candidates with 3A or more. The Head, Steffan Griffiths, said, “I am delighted for the Class of 2026; they have been a wonderful year-group, setting high standards in our community across all areas of our provision, including sport, music, drama, dance and service. As is evident in these strong results, impressive academic progress has matched their extensive co-curricular activity, onward individual routes are equally exciting and we look forward to staying in touch so that we can hear of their future successes”. Richard Sims, Head of Sixth Form, commented, “This cohort of young people have been good friends to each other and exemplary role models to younger pupils. I am pleased that they have now finished their time in Cathedral Close with pleasing academic results, too. Throughout their studies, they have enjoyed support from families at home and teachers in school; on the pupils’ behalf, I pass on my gratitude to them. I close by offering sincere good wishes for our leavers’ next steps”. NB: specific grade percentages will be published when the subject paper review process has been completed.

Norfolk Summer School Alumni Shares Experience

By Eleanor Lewis • August 3, 2026

Now you've finished Year 13, what are you planning to do next? I am planning to do a gap year where I have applied to get involved with Uppingham school for a creative student placement. I have also applied for work experience with Christie’s. For now I am volunteering with local galleries as well as Leicester Museum and Gallery for training, helping run workshops, volunteering and selling artwork at markets as well as open calls. The degree I plan on doing is Fine art with Art History at Leeds University or at Manchester Metropolitan. Now you've been through the process of applying for UCAS, what did you find most helpful? Was there a particular session or piece of advice which stood out for you? The advice I got from my teachers there was very useful as the themes and ideas explored within lessons helped to push me into the right direction for contextual knowledge for my personal statement. The interview preparation I found most useful (especially how we had 2 practice ones) as they allowed me to reflect on aspects I could improve, making me feel better prepared in what I should say within them. What advice would you give someone in Year 12 who is thinking of applying to university next year? Definitely attend summer school as it gives you the knowledge and preparation needed for applications and interviews for uni. If you are unable to, there is plenty information online as well. If you are applying to creative courses I would suggest getting involved within your local arts community like we did with the Sainsbury’s centre within the course as you will gain experience as well as relationships with artists and people who are passionate about their practice. Opportunities within the future for collaboration may be possible through this too and is always useful for exhibitions in your later career. Get involved with the courtauld gallery (they offer EPQ and A-Level qualifications) as well as the Association for Art History as they offer vital information via workshops for careers within the creative sector. Is there anything else you'd like to share with us about your experience of the Summer School and/or applying for university? An amazing opportunity where I gained information about the history of the art surrounding the area as well as studies currently underway at the Sainsbury’s Centre. The experience made things for me seem more possible as summer school s within my city are not available. I loved learning about the themes explored within the lessons and still use the information noted today for essays. Everyone was very helpful and open to sharing their experiences as well as advice. Thank you!

An Exhibition by Norwich Based Artist, Gray Rose, in The Crypt

By Eleanor Lewis • July 28, 2026

Gray Rose is a Norwich-based artist with a focus mainly on the celebration of florals and the world around us. 'Blessed Bloom' is a rich amalgamation of religion and flora. Each piece in this collection reflects the compositional principles within Renaissance devotional art. Florals now occupy the positions once held by figures in the original pieces. Petals take on gestures, stems hold posture, and bloom becomes body. Humanity traced through the language of flowers. These works explore transformation as a shared condition: to grow, to change, to wither, to return. An unbroken cycle of growth, decay and spiritual renewal. In Christian art, the body has long functioned as a vessel for suffering, transcendence, and devotion. By removing the body, the sacred is not lost but displaced - embedded instead in the rhythms of the natural world. Where the human body is finite, the natural world persists through continual transformation - temporal, yet unending. An unbroken cycle of growth, decay and spiritual renewal.

Gold DofE Practice Expedition at the Start of the Summer Break

By Eleanor Lewis • July 17, 2026

The first 3 groups travelled up for their Gold Practice expedition on Tuesday. They undertook some first aid refresher training and a navigating walk. On Wednesday they set off on their first day's walk, accompanied by a staff member for the first half to help them work as a team. The weather is warm with a cooling breeze. On day 2 they were met with the challenge of Kinder Scout. Two groups met having spent the night at different campsites. We carried water up to ensure they can top up and keep hydrated. Gold practice expedition 1 and all groups impressed with their navigation, time-keeping and high spirits. The groups all met at Mam Tor in passing, filling water-bottles and exchanging stories. The last day for the first 3 groups went well. They had to leave their campsites at 07:30 and walk back to the initial campsite. They cleaned and dried tents and trangia before handing them back in. The second 2 Groups arrived in god time, give the opportunity for a group photo. Very many thanks to Keith and Mike who drove the school coach up for their last time. Also a big thank you to Tom White (teacher) and Emily White (ON) for giving their time to help with the first practice. After a short break for lunch, Mr Bluett and Mr Gregor Macgregor recommenced by taking the new groups on their training walk before some First Aid refresher training. On Sunday they undertook their first day's walk, initially accompanied, to their next campsite. Both groups did well, making good time and arriving in high spirits.

Coming Up at the Crypt - HORIZONS by TOPstitch

By Eleanor Lewis • July 16, 2026

TOPSTITCH is a group of local textile artists . The exhibition represents a years work exploring the theme of Horizons using textile stitch and mixed media. Themes include climate change and the local landscapes as well as personal journeys. Members of the group will be available each day at the gallery. Work will be for sale as well as cards and small items You can find out more about TOPstitch at www.topstitchnorwich.wordpress.com Our guest exhibitor is Debbie Lyddon Debbie is an artist based in North Norfolk whose inspiration comes from being out in the natural world – from walking, noticing, collecting, being curious and learning. She makes mixed media cloths, sculptures, installations and drawings which originate from thoughts and memories that are a consequence of experiencing place and paying attention. 4 — 15 August 2026 — Open Monday to Saturday 10.00am to 4.00pm (Closed Sundays)

Another Year, Another Fantastic Norfolk Summer School!

By Eleanor Lewis • July 20, 2026

Another year, another fantastic Norfolk Summer School! What an absolute privilege to welcome 138 Year 12 students from 20 schools across the region, for three days of enriching academic activity in Cathedral Close. It was exciting to see so many young people come together from so many different settings but with one common purpose: to supercharge their journey to higher education. Attendees enjoyed expert-led subject tutorials, one-to-one clinics, and practice interviews, as well as talks on personal statements, student finance, the Oxbridge teaching system, degree apprenticeships, and studying in London. Perhaps most of all, though, they enjoyed the meeting of minds as they explored the subjects they love in the company of academic kindred spirits. The week was delivered by an impressive team: subject specialists from Norwich School (staff and alumni), medical students, law specialists, and the outreach lead from the University of East Anglia, and interview coaches from AVIVA. With keynote addresses from Nigel Cushion (Nelson's Spirit), Dr Gabriel Astorga (2025 Future Presenter Award winner at the Amplify X New Voice Awards), and Martin Schmierer (Norwich City Councillor and Lord Mayor, 2018–19), students left inspired and empowered to take their next steps. On behalf of the Partnerships Team at Norwich School and the 138 brilliant young people, we extend enormous thanks to the following sponsors who so generously make the Norfolk Summer School possible: Alderman Norman’s Foundation, Norwich Freemen’s Charity, R. C. Snelling Charitable Trust, Jarrolds, Norwich School, The Paul Bassham Charitable Trust, The Charles Littlewood Hill Trust, Norfolk Cambridge Society, and Old Norvicensians Mark Schofield (ON 75–85) and John Walton (ON 54–65). Here's to next Summer!

Norwich Lower School Gardeners Win National Award

By Eleanor Lewis • July 14, 2026

Norwich Lower School is proud to announce that the Little Roots allotment has been named a winner in the Bees’ Needs Champions Awards 2026, a national recognition scheme led by DEFRA (the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs). The Little Roots allotment has received one of the 2026 Bees’ Needs Champion Awards in recognition of its commitment to supporting pollinators and enhancing biodiversity through practical environmental action. The prestigious award celebrates organisations that are making a positive difference for bees and other pollinating insects by creating and protecting habitats, raising awareness, and encouraging community involvement. Recognised in the Communities category, Little Roots was commended for its efforts to create pollinator-friendly spaces and enrich local habitats. Through initiatives such as wildflower planting, habitat creation and the addition of a pond, the Little Roots allotment is helping to create an environment that not only enriching for people, but for wildlife too. The Bees’ Needs Champion Awards celebrate the work of organisations across the country that are taking action to support pollinators. Protecting pollinators is essential for maintaining a healthy environment, supporting biodiversity and ensuring thriving green spaces for future generations. Commenting on the award, Mr Worton and Mrs Morgan said: “Protecting our pollinators is essential for a healthy environment and thriving communities. Through our biodiversity initiatives, we are helping to safeguard important habitats while creating greener, more vibrant spaces that pupils and wildlife can enjoy. We are delighted to receive this national recognition for our efforts.” The awards were presented on 14th July, at RHS Wisley, to tie in with Bees’ Needs week. Mr and Mrs Boothby were presented with the award by Mary Creagh MP, the Defra Minister for Nature. The Norwich Lower School gardeners have also recently been recognised in two separate gardening competitions at the recent Royal Norfolk Show. Lower One and Upper One were thrilled to be awarded a gold medal for outstanding exhibit in the School Gardening competition; their entry featured a beautifully designed wheelbarrow display inspired by Beatrix Potter’s Mr McGregor’s garden, created in celebration of 160 years since Beatrix Potter’s birth. In the School Growing competition over forty pupils eagerly took part, nurturing their basil, calendula and radish plants at home with care and commitment in the weeks leading up to the Show. The best examples from each category were then selected and taken to the Showground, where they were judged against entries from other schools. Norwich School pupils were delighted to win all three categories which they entered. Mrs Morgan said: “We are incredibly proud of our pupils for their creativity, perseverance and teamwork and we are delighted to celebrate winning four gold medals at this year’s Royal Norfolk Show! Outdoor learning and gardening skills are interwoven throughout the Lower School curriculum, and our successes at both the Bees’ Needs Champions awards and the Norfolk Show are a testament to this.”

A Thought-Provoking Session for our Lower 6 Pupils on the Academic Subject of Law Delivered by a Distinguished Oxford Professor

By Eleanor Lewis • July 9, 2026

We were thrilled to welcome back to Norwich School on 09 June 2026 Professor Peter Mirfield, highly respected Emeritus Professor of Law at Jesus College, Oxford University. Pulling on his many years of experience, Professor Mirfield delivered, for a fourth successive year, a practical and very informative session on the academic subject of Law to a group of the school’s budding Lower 6 lawyers organised by Development Director, Mr Pearson, and Deputy Head of UCAS, Mr Pearce. The intent of the session was to offer inspiration, and to help our Sixth Formers make informed choices for their studies beyond Norwich School. Following lunch in the new Upper King Street refectory with pupils to break the ice, his tutorial kicked off with an introduction to this popular academic subject and included examples of the necessary critical rigour and skills required to study this subject. This was enlightening, as Law is not a subject taught at school and always requires an informed leap of faith by those committing to study this subject at tertiary level. Subsequently, Professor Mirfield led an in-depth discussion on a celebrated and particularly contentious legal case that went to Appeal (Fagan v Metropolitan Police Commissioner) and concluded with thought-provoking worked examples relating to the Theft Act 1968. As with previous years, analysis provoked lively discussion and mature insights from those in the room. Professor Mirfield was characteristically patient and lucid in his explanations. Now in his mid-seventies, and having just recently retired from all formal teaching at Oxford, this session at Norwich School marked the very final act of his illustrious fifty-year career of teaching Law. This was marked by warm applause from our appreciative young audience. The school wishes Peter well in retirement and we look forward to on-going social interactions with Peter and his wife Jean as their 37 year association with the school continues in different guises.