Ormiston Forge Academy

Hi! My name is Emily and I began my journey with Forge back in 2013 as a Year 7 student. I received my GCSE results in 2018 and initially headed off to a sixth form college to study for my A levels. After several weeks at this college, I made the decision to return to Forge and join the sixth form, as deep down I knew this would be the place where I would thrive and realise my full potential. In hindsight, I definitely made the right choice. The small class sizes meant the core material was covered thoroughly, with plenty of time for students to ask further questions or to ask for help on trickier topics. From the age of 14, I knew I ultimately wanted a career in science, hence choosing Chemistry, Physics and Geography at A level, as well as Spanish at AS level to ensure that I had a variety of skills. Not only did Forge allow me to develop vital skills through learning these courses, there were several enrichment opportunities that allowed me to gain skills and experience necessary for life after post-16 study. One of Forge’s biggest assets is that the school recognises its role in the community. To this end, there were lots of enrichment activities for me to choose from as a sixth form student, including activities based in the wider community such as visiting local primary schools to support younger students with their reading and voluntary work in a local hospital. Deep down I always knew I was a follower more than a leader, and this was something I needed to work on to be successful as an adult. As a result, I applied for position of Head Girl whilst in sixth form and secured the position at the end of year 12. Becoming Head Girl allowed me to develop myself as an individual and gain leadership experience from responsibilities such as organising charity events or delivering a speech in front of more than 800 people. One of the greatest aspects of sixth form was the focus on supporting students in planning what to do at the end of year 13. Right from the beginning of year 12 I was given lots of information about the different options available to me once I reached 18. For me, I always knew that university was where I wanted to go, so I attended weekly afternoon sessions in year 13 help me with my UCAS applications and the writing of my personal statement. The main reason I initially chose to go to a larger college instead of the sixth form at Forge was because I was worried I wouldn’t be prepared for the transition from A level to university studies. As someone who is about to enter my final year at a top five U.K. university, I can confirm that the learning style Forge provided definitely mirrors several aspects of a demanding degree course. Right from the start, we were encouraged to take charge of our own learning, and as time went on, we subconsciously became more independent learners. We were encouraged to ask questions to both develop our knowledge and understand unfamiliar topics; in my experience, this is also encouraged at university. Thanks to the support from staff at Forge, I am currently studying Chemistry at the University of Bath, which despite being my absolute dream destination since the beginning of year 12, I was reluctant to apply for out of fear of being rejected. The encouragement I received from both teaching and pastoral staff at Forge to apply was second to none and moving to Bath is definitely one of the best decisions I have ever made.

Supportive, transformative, empowering — these are the three words that best define my experience at Ormiston Forge Academy. I’m Ishrat. I joined Ormiston Forge Academy in 2013 and completed my sixth form studies at the Academy in 2020. The support and encouragement provided by my A level teachers and the sixth form team was exceptional. All staff were incredibly patient and understanding, always prioritising our mental wellbeing alongside academic success. Sixth form truly felt like a second home; a place where I was both supported and challenged to achieve my best. I studied business, maths, IT, and finance at sixth form and this laid the foundation for my passion in bridging the worlds of technology and business. The guidance and belief my teachers had in me gave me the confidence to pursue university. Sixth Form also gave me opportunities to push myself outside of my comfort zone — something I didn’t always understand at the time. I still remember being told, “Doing the uncomfortable will one day make you comfortable.” Back then, it felt like just a phrase, but now it makes perfect sense. Whether it was through class presentations, group projects, or just being encouraged to speak up and take initiative, these experiences gradually built my confidence and resilience. They taught me the importance of growth through discomfort, a lesson that continues to shape my life and career. After completing my A levels I progressed to university and in 2023 I was awarded a First Class Honours degree in Business Information Technology. Following university I secured a place on a graduate scheme within the civil service. I now work for the Government in the field of cyber security . It’s a career that I enjoy immensely and my time in sixth form helped me get to this position. Looking back, Ormiston Forge wasn’t just an Academy; it was a family. The dedication, care, and encouragement from the staff have had a lasting impact on both my academic and personal journey. I’m truly grateful.

Hi! My name is Anissan and I began my journey at Forge in year 7 back in 2017. For me, the UK was a new country, with new people and I joined year 7 later than everyone else. Nevertheless I quickly felt very comfortable and welcomed in the school, so it was not a difficult decision to choose the sixth form at Forge once I’d reached the end of my GCSEs. I joined the sixth form in 2022, studying A level Biology, Chemistry and Psychology. My experience at sixth form was great! I followed the medicine pathway, which is designed for students looking to progress to a medical related degree. I was provided with a lot of support in finding work experience in local hospitals, which strengthened my university application. The sixth form team also set up weekly 1 to 1 mentoring sessions with a medical student. Furthermore, through The Access Project ‘s Medicine and Dentistry society, I was provided with seminars and practice sessions to help prepare for university interviews. After achieving an A grade and 2 B grades in my A levels, I was awarded a place at the University of Birmingham on the biomedical science degree course. My plan is to use the degree course as a route into a graduate entry medical programme. Overall, my experience at sixth form is one I will always cherish and I am grateful for everyone who helped me achieve what I have so far.