WHERE NEXT FOR SOME OF OUR 2023 COHORT...?

August 17, 2023

Receiving A Level results is always a day filled with emotion, as our leavers find out the results of two years of study and where that will take them as they embark on an exciting new chapter in their lives. There have been some outstanding individual performances and our 2023 cohort should be proud of their achievements as they look forward to their future. We caught up with a few of our pupils to find out what today’s results mean for them…

 

Name

George Schofield


What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Maths (B), Economics (C), Computer Science (C)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I didn't hope for anything - I just wanted to get in and get enough to get to that next stage.


What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Naval Architecture at Newcastle University.


What’s the dream job?

Design warships / submarines!


What has taken you down that path?

I have always loved ships and boats. I am captain of the school sailing team.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

Sailing team without a doubt.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

Hosting the sailing national finals this year.


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Sailing. I will of course continue to sail but I will miss my team.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Hectic but a good hectic.

 

Name

Lily Macdonald



What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Spanish (A*), History (A*), and Economics (A*)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I didn't know what to expect - especially with all the negative press coverage, so I am really happy.


What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

BSc in Management at the École Supérieure de Commerce de Paris (ESCP).


What’s the dream job?

I am not decided at this point – ESCP offers an internship each summer so hopefully that will help me decide as I gain more experience.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

Too much to narrow it down to one thing! Norwich School is such an incredible community and it really does feel like a family. I’ve been here for 11 years and there have been so many opportunities to get involved in drama, music, sport, academic, clubs and societies! Plus I loved all my subjects. All the teachers have inspired me.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

The Spanish trip to Valencia! I would just like to say the Spanish department have been incredible. We have bonded as a class and the teachers have put so much effort into our Spanish journey!


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The people and the friendly community that it is. I feel like all the pupils but also all the staff have been so supportive throughout my time. I will miss seeing everyone every day. I will also miss my classes - I loved my lessons.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Unique.


Name

Jack Parfitt



What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

History (B), Classical Civilisation (A), and Theatre Studies (B)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

They were certainly the results I was hoping for but perhaps but not that way round!


What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

A gap year. I want to make films so I am already working full time on my next film and have just launched a crowdfunding page. Looking at university for the future but at this stage I don’t know what I might do.


What’s the dream job?

Making films! I love acting but making films is very much my focus.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

That's a hard one! I think I would have to say the open ended-ness – being given the liberty and freedom to be self-sufficient but in a supportive and structured environment.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

Making my film! From developing the team to making it and then showing it! I have loved making so many creative friends.


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The supportive environment, which has really helped me to thrive.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Supportive.


Name

Alastair Wyllie



What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Maths (A*), Further Maths (A), Physics (A*) and Chemistry (A)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

They were definitely the results I've been hoping and working for and I am thrilled as they will give me confidence going into the course that I can do it!


What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Aerospace Engineering at Bristol. It’s so nice not to say ‘hopefully’ after that! I’ve always been fascinated by aeroplanes.


What’s the dream job?

Love to be a wing aerodynamicist designing wings for Airbus aircraft - half the aircraft in the skies are designed and built in Britain and I’d love to be a part of that.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

So much! I have enjoyed cathedrals, walking from lesson to lesson in the open air, friendships and co-curricular activities, singing in the choir … I simply can't pick a favourite.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

So many I can't choose one!


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Definitely the people.

 


Name

Alex Illing



What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Maths (A*), Further Maths (A*), Biology (A*) and Chemistry (A*)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I hoped I would have got the grades I needed to get into university, but especially with all the negative rumours in the news about results I was nervous. So I am speechless!


What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Biochemistry at Bristol - deciding between a Batchelors and an Integrated Masters.


What’s the dream job?

The world is my oyster - I will see where it goes!


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

Assembly in the Cathedral for sure. However, I have loved anything that involves the social aspects of school life, as well as the support from the school.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

Modelling in the charity fashion show at the last minute! Such fun.


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Seeing my friends every day. Plus the familiarity - I know the school so well, it will be weird venturing out but I am excited for the new journey.


Name

Charlie Windle


What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Classical Civilization (A*), History (A*) and Latin (A*)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I was hoping for a good set of grades but I certainly didn’t think I would have achieved at A* in Latin so I am really pleased.


What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Classical Civilisation at Cambridge University.


What’s the dream job?

I would love to do something in the world of diplomacy.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

Definitely the musical opportunities, especially the incredible venues that we get to perform in such as the Playhouse and the Gala stage.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

Winning the House Music competition.



What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Performing in productions with my friends – it’s the best experience; you can't put it into words how much fun it is to sing in a choir.


Name

Jemima Watson


What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Chemistry (A), Biology (A*), Latin (A*)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I wanted to be confident, but you never know!


What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

I am taking a gap year and then I’m going to Exeter University to study medicine.


What’s the dream job?

Doctor!


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The sport! It was fantastic to be appointed a red gown with the responsibility for sport. I have loved all the opportunities I have had to play and compete.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

My first procession down the Cathedral Nave after I was appointed a red gown.



What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Spending all day with my mates. Some of us have been together since Year 3!


Name

Mirha Kashif


What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Chemistry (A*), Maths (A*), Further Maths (A*) and Physics (A*)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

They were definitely the results I was hoping for and I am delighted.


What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

I am going to Newnham College, Cambridge to study Medicine


What’s the dream job?

Perhaps research once I have qualified as a doctor.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The teaching has always been really great with interactive and interesting lessons. I also love our surroundings, with the buildings in the Close.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

Results Days have been good!! I am so pleased with my results today and I got 11 grade 9’s at GCSE as well!



What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

I love the libraries here and I have also really enjoyed the opportunities to play cricket.


Name

Pippa Garrod



What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Geography (A*), Biology (A) and Chemistry (A)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

Very happy. It’s not even so much about the grades as the anticipation and the fact that until you get the grades you can’t make plans, so the summer has been about “what if?”. I didn’t have any idea what I would do if things didn’t go my way today so it’s a big relief as well! 


What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Manchester University to study Dentistry.


What’s the dream job?

Once qualified I would like to travel and use my specialist skill to do charity based work.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The people - it's all about the people. Our year is such a great community and it’s been a lovely two years.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

I have so many fond memories. I’ve genuinely had such a good time and everyone has been so kind. 


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

My walk down to Horsefair – I have had so many nice walks with different people.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Pupil led (sorry that’s two!).


Name

George Bowyer



What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Maths (A*), Biology (A*) and Chemistry (A*)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I didn’t expect that no, so I am delighted.


What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Cambridge University to study Veterinary Medicine.


What’s the dream job?

Animal orthopedics and aesthetics – it would be amazing to be in a position to help injured pets. Innovation in medicine is exciting for me as well.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

Unity. For me, what makes Norwich School special goes beyond just the people – it is our community and the sense of unity, which is felt right across the school. I also think the teachers – as a pupil it is really special knowing that there are teachers who want to push you, whilst not being negative.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

The very special education which for me has felt tailored and individual to help me achieve what I have wanted to.


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The Cathedral Close – what a truly special place.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Dynamic.


Name

Oscar Taylor



What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

2D Photography (A*), Geography (A), Business Enterprise (B)


Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I was really pleased, especially as I got a higher grade in Geography than I was expecting.


What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Liverpool University to study Architecture.


What’s the dream job?

I would like to go into ecofriendly architectural design - restructure the planet in a more ecofriendly way.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

Just the whole school environment – growing up with amazing friends and people around you.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

It’s impossible to sum up eight years in one memory, but making all the friends I have along the way has been really special.


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The teachers, who have been so supportive.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Exquisite.

 

Name

Amy Griffiths



What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Latin (A*), Classical Civilisation (A*), English (A)


What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Oxford University to study Classical Civilisation.


What’s the dream job?

Teach, but possibly also put some of my music ‘out there’ and see what happens!


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The people for sure. However, I also feel that for pupils here, whatever you put into your school career, you get back, so really the world is your oyster.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

My first red gown procession down the Cathedral Nave when it hit me that I was a Red Gown! Footloose was also a highlight – especially the pink cowboy hat!


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The Classics Department - I will be back to visit!


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Rewarding.

 

Name

May Maclennan



What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

French (A*), Spanish (A*), Maths (A*)


What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Cambridge University to study Asian and Middle Eastern Studies with Mandarin.


What’s the dream job?

Something in the Foreign Office.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The support you get from teachers – I remember meeting with Dr Farr really early on and telling him my dream was to go to Cambridge University and his reply was “we will set you on that path.”!


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

All the times that the school celebrates and rewards success – there is something really special about getting a handshake from the Head which says you have done something well.


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Spending time with friends.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Fulfilling.


Name

Ann Kalu



What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Biology (A*), Chemistry (A*) and Maths (A*)


What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

University College London to study Medicine.


What’s the dream job?

Not sure yet! Obviously finish my degree but perhaps research.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The opportunities and chances you get here that are so unique.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

The Sixth Form trip when we all went to Go Ape - even when I got stuck halfway down the wire.


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Everything! Especially the Cathedral Close – it’s such a special place to grow up and spend high school; so beautiful and peaceful.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Exciting.


Name

Max Clayton



What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Maths (A*), German (A), Chemistry (A*) and Biology (A*)


What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Witten-Herdecke University in Germany to study Dentistry – it was a bit of a last minute application, and the interview was 2 days after my last A Level! They asked me to do an academic and practical assessment as part of the interview process, the practical part of which involved doing origami, so immediately after finishing my A Levels I was frantically learning the art of paper folding! Thankfully it went well and I was given an unconditional offer!


What’s the dream job?

Dentistry – probably in Germany.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

Assemblies – singing together, especially Jerusalem!


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

Starting the day with a hymn!


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Eating lunch with my friends and the amazing Refectory food!


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

I can give you two – supportive and friendly.


Name

Betsy James



What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

2D Photography (A*), English Literature (A), Classical Civilisation (A)


What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Royal Holloway to study English and Digital Art.


What’s the dream job?
I will be happy as long as it is working with books – I could be an editor or working at Waterstones - I just want to be surrounded by stories.


What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

Everything! I started off as this awkward little Year 6 pupil and have developed so much over the years. I am particularly proud that having been diagnosed with autism in June 2022, the school has supported me so that my education hasn’t suffered. I have been able to learn remotely when I needed to and it was never assumed that I couldn’t do anything – I was always asked “would you like to?” instead of assuming I wouldn’t be able to. So, the diagnosis gave me the answers I needed and enabled me and my family to communicate with teachers and staff members to give me amazing opportunities.


What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

The Cloister Play this year was so much for the performers as well as the audiences. I also loved playing the earth worm in the L4 production of James and the Giant Peach at the Playhouse.


What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The productions, without a doubt. Performing has always been my favourite bit and I have made the closet friends via theatre. Every year I was part of something and it has been so rewarding.


Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

That's impossible! I can't. I think it is different for everyone.


By Eleanor Lewis March 20, 2026
With British Science week happening last week, it is a great time to celebrate some of the many STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Medicine) offers our Upper 6 pupils have received from the most selective UK universities. STEM is very strong at Norwich School with consistently large numbers of both girls and boys choosing Sciences, Maths and Further Maths for A level: 80 of last year’s Upper 6 cohort took Maths A level (the most popular A level subject) with over 40 taking each of the three Sciences and 17 taking Further Maths. There is so much going on in STEM areas within school; the pupil led Med Soc (Medical Society) have recently enjoyed learning surgical suturing and practising this on pigs’ trotters, Upper 6 pupil Adit Raje has just gained a ‘Top Gold’ in the British Physics Olympiad coming in the top 69 of the 9000 entrants and Upper 6 pupil Emmanuel Milne’s gold in the British Biology Olympiad placed him in the top 5% of the 18,800 pupils who took part nationally. Both of these performances qualified the pupils for Round 2 of these Olympiads whilst the lower 4 and lower 5 VEX Robotics team’s recent regional and then national success qualified them for the international finals that will take place in St. Louis, Missouri, USA in April. The school’s Apply+ Programme is run by Mr Pearce. It supports pupils applying to academic courses that require admissions tests and/or interviews. STEM Oxbridge offers: Of the 10 Norwich School pupils with offers to study at Oxford and Cambridge Universities this cycle, 5 are for STEM subjects: Thomas Irvine – Medicine at the University of Cambridge Georgia Lloyd – Psychological and Behavioural Sciences at the University of Cambridge Adit Raje – Physics at the University of Oxford Freya Simmonds – Veterinary Medicine at the University of Cambridge Emile Verschoor – Natural Sciences at the University of Cambridge Other Apply+ STEM offers received so far this cycle: Thomas Cahir – Physics with Astrophysics at the University of Manchester Isaac Chan – Physics with Theoretical Physics at Imperial Arthur Dannatt – Mathematics at the University of Warwick Katerina Di Maria – Biochemistry at Imperial Thomas Hsia – Computer Science at University of Warwick Leon Liu – Physics at the University of Manchester Maya Peart – Microbiology at Imperial Adit Raje – Physics at Imperial Emile Verschoor – Physics at Imperial Halvard Yip – Data Science at the University of Warwick  Medicine and Veterinary medicine: We are delighted that all of our pupils who have applied for medicine and veterinary medicine this cycle have gained offers to study these highly competitive courses: Omar Alfiky Isio Emore India-Rose Fox Lizzie Henson
By Eleanor Lewis March 17, 2026
Lower Two enjoyed a successful two‑day residential in London.  The trip began with a train journey into the city, followed by an introduction to travelling independently on the Underground. Thirdly, then pupils then visited the London Eye, where many showed great courage in overcoming fears of heights while enjoying panoramic views and identifying key landmarks, including their hostel near St Paul’s Cathedral. Secondly, the children had a wonderful time at the Paddington Experience, where they eagerly joined Paddington in his quest to make the perfect marmalade. Working together, they helped gather ingredients, stirred the mixture with great enthusiasm, and proudly supported Paddington in creating his famous treat. Thirdly, riverboat cruise along the Thames provided further learning, offering insights into London’s architecture and the history of the Great Fire of London. The day concluded with a well‑deserved dinner at Pizza Express. On the second day, the group explored the Tower of London, observing the ravens, viewing the Crown Jewels, and learning about royal life throughout history. A picnic on the grounds offered a relaxed end to the visit. All pupils represented the school admirably and should be proud of their achievements on their first residential.
By Eleanor Lewis March 17, 2026
The Choristers visited London on Wednesday 4 March to sing Evensong with the Temple Church Choir. We left from Norwich train station at 9.30am after a quick rehearsal, and arrived in London in time for lunch at Zizzi. We were then shown around St Paul’s Cathedral and enjoyed testing out the acoustics in the Whispering Gallery. After braving the narrow spiral staircases all the way up to the Golden Gallery, we admired the spectacular views over London. At the end of the tour we had a group photo on an amazing cantilever staircase (used in the Harry Potter films as the way to the Divination classroom), and then walked to the Temple Church. Following a rehearsal with their choir, they all sang Evensong together at 6pm. The standard of singing was breathtaking, a testament to the hard work and dedication these young musicians display on a daily basis. We caught the 8pm train and arrived back in Norwich just before 10pm, tired but happy after a rewarding and fulfilling day. Pupil Highlights: “The whole day was 10/10. I especially enjoyed seeing the spiral staircase in St Paul’s used in the Harry Potter films!” “My favourite part was singing at the Temple Church with the other choir. I also liked the view from the top of St Paul’s Cathedral, even if it was very high up - I’m not great with heights!”
By Sonja Mitchell March 16, 2026
With thanks to an award from the Friends of Norwich School, the Community Knit Club has been busy knitting winter essentials.
By Eleanor Lewis March 16, 2026
Norwich School has had the honour of being the host site for the Royal Geographical Society (RGS) in the East of England since 2019. Ours is an ideal venue for their engaging public talks from renowned experts about the physical, human and environmental world around us. On 16 March 2026 we heard a terrific presentation given by Stephen Akester entitled Rethinking the future of our seas, and what you can do to help. Stephen is a veritable font of all knowledge concerning global fisheries and fish stocks. He is a highly respected expert who advises the World Bank, the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation, and national governments on fisheries policy. Through comprehensible interpretation of data and up-to-the-minute fishing vessel GPS tracking information, he gave us a compelling and intelligent assessment of world fish stocks and practices. Whilst there are clearly some areas of deep concern, unsustainable practices involving indiscriminate bottom trawling and unregulated industries in offending countries, Stephen also gave an upbeat assessment of areas where sustainable fishing has seen some dramatic recoveries in levels of nutritional, tasty fish that we can land on our dinner plates with a clear conscience. A large audience of pupils, staff, alumni, Fellows of RGS, academics and parents left the talk better informed and hugely impressed by our speaker. His professionalism, steely determination to drive best practice and genuine environmental concern was evident to all, especially when fielding a stimulating Q&A afterwards and over refreshments. Attracted by such ‘fishy’ goings-on, even Budge, the Cathedral Cat, put in a guest appearance, and sat salivating over big tuna on the screen! These RGS talks offer intellectual rigour and great entertainment for professionals/academics and the lay person alike, and are always well worth attending, whatever the topic under discussion. The next talk will be given by accomplished and award-winning wildlife cameraman and director Toby Hough, who is also a proud Old Norvicensian. His credits include work seen on Countryfile, The One Show, Springwatch and numerous BBC wildlife documentaries and travel programmes. His talk promises to be a memorable visual feast! Tickets are on sale here: RGS: Toby Hough - Lemurs to leopards: filming adventures from around the world . All are welcome. It takes place on Thursday 7 May 2026 at 19:30 in the Blake Studio.
By Eleanor Lewis March 16, 2026
On 12 March, Upper 1 embarked on a fascinating journey back in time with a visit to Castle Rising, bringing their learning about medieval castles to life. During the trip, the children discovered that Castle Rising Castle is one of the finest surviving examples of a Norman motte and bailey castle in the UK. They learned about the huge earthwork defences that were carefully constructed around the castle, along with the imposing gatehouse and towering stone walls designed to protect it from attack. The children also discovered how a wide moat once completely surrounded the castle, forming a powerful and intimidating barrier that made it extremely difficult for enemies to approach. The drawbridge and portcullis were also vital features in controlling who could enter! Upper 1 learnt about the Murder Hole, a clever defensive feature used by castle guards to drop boiling water, stones, or other objects onto attackers below. The children also explored the remains of the castle kitchen and stepped into the magnificent Great Hall, imagining the feasts, meetings, and celebrations that would once have filled the room. They listened to stories about a bedchamber believed to be one of the most haunted rooms in the UK, explored the original church built 200 years before the castle, and looked at the ruins of the bailey buildings. The trip was a wonderful opportunity for the children to consolidate their learning of life in a medieval castle.
By Eleanor Lewis March 13, 2026
Upper Sixth Physics pupils recently participated in the British Physics Olympiad hosted by the University of Oxford. The challenge involved answering a series of highly demanding abstract physics problems from beyond the scope of the A Level curriculum. Around 9000 pupils initially took part in the new Olympiad Round 0, with pupils needing to achieve above a threshold score to proceed to Round 1. Over 1800 pupils from 475 schools qualified for Round 1. The following pupils from Norwich School made it through to Round 1 and achieved these excellent results: Emile Verschoor Silver Arthur Dannatt Silver Adit Raje Top Gold Adit Raje's outstanding performance meant that he also qualified for Round 2 of the Olympiad - an exceptional achievement given that only 69 pupils out of the original 9000 made it through. He proceeded to gain a Silver Award in this event, an incredible achievement and recognition that he is one of the top young physicists in the country at problem solving.
By Eleanor Lewis March 13, 2026
On Friday 13 March, the Little Roots Allotment was delighted to welcome parents, grandparents and pupils to the open afternoon. This event gave families the opportunity to look round the evolving gardening space and experience the allotment in its new location. It was wonderful to see many families exploring the allotment and admiring the work that has been done by pupils so far. Pupils had the chance to get their hands dirty and plant their very own spring planters, which they took home— just in time to make the perfect Mother’s Day gift! Surrounded by cheerful flowers and newly emerging vegetables, the afternoon was filled with excitement, creativity, and an appreciation for the beauty of our unique school grounds.
By Sonja Mitchell March 12, 2026
The ever-popular Young Chamber participants have launched their businesses and are learning what it takes to be successful.
By Sonja Mitchell March 11, 2026
The programme helps athletes transition into senior international hockey.
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