A Level Success Stories 2025
Hockey International Casey Scores Cambridge Place
Head of School and International Hockey player Casey Mear is off to Cambridge to read Classics after acing his A Levels with A*, A*, A grades. He is one of 12 Caterham pupils heading to Oxford or Cambridge University in 2025.
Caterham is in the blood for Casey whose sister, father and grandfather all attended the school. Casey joined Caterham Prep and now leaves after a total of 17 years spent at the school from nursery through to Upper Sixth.
Reflecting on the end of his school career: “I’m excited about the next step and moving up, but a bit sad to say goodbye too. I’d like to thank my parents for their support, and thank my teachers, especially Mr Owen and the whole Classics department.”
This summer has seen Casey progress his international hockey career playing for Wales Hockey U18s in the U18 European Championships II, which took place in Alanya, Turkey this Summer.
Twins Sophie & Emily Unlock Different Paths
Twins Sophie and Emily celebrated a string of top grades today which opened different pathways for the sisters. Emily has secured her place to read Medicine (one of 10 Caterham young medics) having been president of The Wright Society for Caterham young medics and Sophie has secured her place to pursue her passion for History at the University of Exeter.
Emily and Sophie moved up from The Hawthorns School and got involved in every aspect of school life. Reflecting on saying goodbye to Caterham, Sophie said: “I’m delighted with my grades but knowing it’s the end of my time at Caterham is bittersweet. I’ll miss my friends and all my teachers across History, English and Drama because they were all so supportive. I’m looking forward to getting involved in the drama society at uni, and the deep dive into History too.”
Emily said, ”It was amazing experience to be president of The Wright Society. I’d like to thank Mr Quinton who leads the society as he’s so helpful. I’m looking forward to reading Medicine at Hull York.”
With a new cohort of pupils joining Caterham in September, Sophie had some advice to share: “My advice for new pupils joining Caterham this autumn is just to have fun and know the teachers are there to support you.” Emily agreed: “There’s no need to be nervous about starting a new school. Just have fun and ask for help if you need it.”
Simi heads Stateside
Head of School Simi is heading across the pond to the US’ top creative schools, SCAD Univeristy where she’ll pursue her passion for film and photography. Simi chose her place from a clutch of top US and UK uni offers received, and is looking forward to immersing herself in visual arts when she heads overseas this September.
“It’s for real now that I’ve got my results and so I need to go and confirm those flights and get pakcing!” said Simi who moved to Caterham from Copthorne Prep School.
“When I first came here I was really shy, but have gained so much encouragement and confidence through the years. At the beginning I wouldn’t have dared to stand up in front of people but was given the chance and I’ve now become a confident public speaker. I can honestly say Caterham has shaped me into who I am today.”
Elle Finds the Right Formula for Oxford
A place to study Chemistry at Oxford awaits Elle as she celebrates with 3 A*s and an A. She said “I am so excited to get my place, Oxford is so unique and cool. I have wanted to go for some time so it is amazing to finally get my place! It is going to be an unique place to study Chemistry”
One of three siblings that joined Caterham in the Prep School on a recommendation, Elle has never looked back. She said “Caterham feels like a big family, everyone has been so friendly! It is a busy community with lots going on, if you want to get involved there is plenty of opportunity”.
Elle’s favourite clubs have been around her love of sport and she loves that everyone gets involved here. She ranks her trip to Tanzania up amongst her best memories of school “ It was so good, we put in months of preparation and have been reliving our memories over the last few days”
Her advice is “Do what you are really passionate about and there is something for everyone here. I don’t know what I want to do yet. I know I love Chemistry and I’m looking forward to seeing where it takes me. I’m going to enjoy the journey.”
Rugby Captain Jack Heads for Bath
Caterham rugby captain Jack led the First XI team to their best ever placing at Rosslyn Park in 2025 (8 of 200 teams) and celebrated another victory today with a clutch of A* and A grades. Jack’s stellar results see him secure his place to read Economics at Bath University in September.
Jack said: “I’m really looking forward to getting involved in uni sport as well as starting my course, and making new friends and contacts.”
Jack joined Caterham at 13+ from The Hawthorns School: “I’ve loved the Sixth Form, working alongside everyone and the friendliness of the Sixth Form Centre. I’m going to miss the team spirit, especially with the sports staff.”
Passing on his wisdom to new pupils joining Caterham in September Jack said: “Just enjoy it – it seems like yesterday I was joining and it’s flown by. Make the most of all the opportunities here and follow your teachers’ advice! I’d also like to thank to all my teachers, the sports team and my parents for their support too.”
Isabelle Scores Winning Goal for Med School.
Nerves dissipated on results morning for Isabelle as the dream of becoming a doctor finally became a reality with a fabulous three A*s confirming her place to study medicine at Exeter.
“I’m so excited to see that all my hard work has paid off, I am thrilled with my results that mean I can follow my passion. Throughout my time in the Sixth Form, I have been part of the Wright Society and the support with navigating the tough path to medical school has been immeasurable – my thanks to Mr Quinton. I also want to thank Dr Langdon who had confidence in my maths and that I could achieve an A*, he went above and beyond. And to Mrs Wallis in Biology who guided and had faith in me”
Sport has played a big part in Isabelle’s life at Caterham. She said: “I have played 1st team in both netball and lacrosse and been lucky enough to captain both. Sport gives great balance to study and I am really looking forward to continuing playing at Exeter”
One highlight of her time at Caterham, Isabelle fondly remembers her life affirming trip to Tanzania with fellow Sixth Form pupils to work with our partner school Lerang’wa. She said: “Working with children in a completely different environment to home was such a joyful experience. Knowing that I had contributed to the lives of these children for a short time was so rewarding and something that I will never forget!”
Starting Caterham at the beginning of the Prep School, Isabelle reflected on her journey throughout the school. She shared: “It’s been my second home and I’ve loved every minute. The perfect balance of academics, sport and welcoming community. It is exactly what I needed. My advice for anyone joining? Just go for it!”
Zoe Jetés from World Cup to Theatre Stage
Having recently returned from the Dance World Cup in Spain (placing 11th and 18th), a relaxed Zoe put aside her ballet shoes to enjoy results day having already secured her place at top performing arts university, Laine Theatre Arts. Joining Caterham into the prep school 15 years ago, Zoe immersed herself in all the opportunities on offer inside and outside school to find her passion for performance and looks forward to studying Musical Theatre and Professional Dance. “It’s been a crazy fun journey of exploration to get to where I am today.”
A natural athlete and keen singer, Zoe found that the stage was where she belonged. She flourished in leading roles, with a National School Theatre Awards ‘Best Female Solo’ nomination for the Lighting Thief.
Balancing A Levels and her dance commitments required hard work and dedication, something that will see Zoe in good stead as she jetés into the next exciting step of her life!
“The community at Caterham is really special, I would like to thank Mrs Yankova who has really helped me and has been one of my biggest supporters, and Mrs Wallace who took so much interest in my progress both inside and outside of the classroom”
A* Medic Hazel Heads to KCL
With five straight A*s Hazel hits the top step on a career in medicine by securing her place at Kings College, London. With invaluable insight from the Wright Society for aspiring medics, dentists and vets, Hazel was able to tap into expert guidance and experience to reach her goal.
Hazel said: “Through giving presentations and interview practice I have really improved my communication skills which have been vital to a successful UCAT application. I am really thankful to Mr Quinton”
Joining Caterham in Year 9 after a move from Hong Kong, Hazel jumped into the huge range of academic clubs to enrich her studies along with entries into numerous national Essay and Olympiad competitions to stretch her scientific and mathematical knowledge. Aside from the academics, she dived into the pool and enjoyed all that swimming at Caterham has to offer.
“People, friendships and community at Caterham have given me so many fantastic memories, I’ve been part of a really lovely year group. I am now really looking forward to starting at KCL, meeting new people and getting stuck into medicine – I can’t wait!”
Advice to younger pupils joining Caterham? “Jump straight into all the co-curricular activities on offer, you won’t regret it!”
Alex is Bristol Bound after Adventures Down Under
With top grades secured, Head of School Alex is heading down under before taking up his place at Bristol University.
With a smile on his face, Alex said: “Today’s been really good! I’ve got my first choice to go to Bristol. Before that I’m going to spend a few months working and then travelling to Australia to work in a school as a gap student.
Alex joined Caterham in the First Year from Micklefield School in Reigate. Reflecting on finishing his time at Caterham, Alex said: “Knowing that we’re saying goodbye to Caterham feels really strange, particularly when I see the pre-season sports practise starting up and knowing that we won’t be a part of it. But it’s also exciting to be moving on up to our next steps and I know we’ll all stay in touch.”
“My advice to young pupils is to make the most of your time here and get involved. My parents always said “In Caterham we trust” and I think that’s true. The teachers here know what they’re doing and offer so much support.”
Lilly Navigates her Future to Cambridge
A nervous start to results day culminated in an exciting morning with friends as Head of School Lilly celebrated a handful of A*s and As to put her straight on the road to Cambridge to study Geography. Looking forward to starting her next chapter, Lilly said: “One of the best things about Caterham is the wonderfully tight knit community but I am looking forward to spreading my wings and embracing all that Cambridge has to offer. I feel well prepared to step outside the boundaries and study a subject that I love”
Joining Caterham from Woldingham in Year 9, Lilly settled in immediately “I’ve enjoyed my entire time at Caterham! From the moment I joined, I knew it was the place for me.” She said. “One of my best experiences was the trip to Tanzania last year. Visiting our partner school Lerang’wa was really special and so touching to see for myself all the work Caterham has helped with there. It was a surreal trip I’ll never forget.”
A superstar netball player, Lilly attended the World School Games during her time at Caterham and also captained the 1st team, crediting Mrs McCartney an amazing coach. During her Upper Sixth year, she stepped up as part of the Head of School leadership team. She said: “This role really gave me a sense of confidence and trust in myself. I was lucky enough to work with a well-rounded team, we gelled really well together!”
Advice for younger pupils joining Caterham? Lilly advised: “Most importantly embrace the idea of balance. Work hard, have a passion for your subjects but indulge yourself in the things you love like sport and drama. Strike a middle ground between the two for success!”
Rosie heads from The National Theatre to Warwick’s Bright Lights
Having spent the summer on placement at The National Theatre and stage managing a show at the Edinburgh Fringe, Rosie is off to the bright lights of Warwick Uni to deep dive into her love of English Literature.
A stalwart of Caterham drama team, Rosie has co-ordinated the stage tech team as Stage Manager across many school productions, including multiple nominations for the National School Theatre Awards.
“I’d like to thank my teachers, and especially Ms Guttner who took a punt on a Fourth Year pupil who was simply keen to get involved, and gave me so many opportunities. Thanks also to Mrs Wildsmith and Mr Gabriele whose knowledge of English Literature, particularly poetry, is inspiring. I’d also like to thank my parents for running me around to and from shows and courses!”
“Caterham is so unique in valuing everything equally – sport, drama, academics are seen as equally important, and I think that’s really rare in a school, to see such excellence in all areas. I know it’s cliched, but I’d encourage younger pupils to really embrace that and seize every opportunity”
Young Medics President Secures his Place
Having been president of Caterham’s young medics soc, The Wright Society, Joel has now secured his place to read Medicine at Newcastle University with four A* grades. Joel is one of ten Caterham medics to secure their place to read medicine.
“The Wright Society helped in so many ways and helped me build my communication skills which really helped me when I got my interview to read medicine. The society was was great fun too!
Joel has also been an active member of the Combined Cadet Force at Caterham too: “I’ve really enjoyed the camaraderie and friendships you build in CCF and the actual activities you do are so much fun.”
Reflecting on his time at Caterham Joel said: “ I’m a bit upset to go, but excited to move on. My advice for the new pupils joining in September is to have fun and enjoy yourself. It’s important to work hard of course, but also to play hard too.”
“I’d like to thank Mr Quinton who runs The Wright Society for Caterham medics – I give him my success today. Thank to my mum and dad too who have been incredibly supportive.”
Ava Unlocks her dream of becoming a Doctor
Ava gained three A * grades and is now off to Glasgow to read Medicine: “Even though I knew I had my place, I was most nervous about opening my results envelope this morning. I didn’t think I’d done as well as I have which is amazing!” said Ava.
“It’s been a long process aiming for medical school which started several years out. It’s great that it’s all paid off. The Wright Society has been amazing. Mr Quinton has always been honest and told us the harsh truth about medicine but it’s exactly what’s needed and we’ve had fantastic guidance.”
Ava joined Caterham from Copthorne Prep School. Reflecting on her time at senior school Ava said: “It felt weird coming into school this morning, knowing it’s the last time as a pupil. I’ve had some amazing teachers and have such great friends. I’m really excited to move on to the next step now.”
Paying tribute to her family Ava said: “I wouldn’t be at school without my parents and it was wonderful to be able to open the results with them this morning. We shed a few tears! “
Ava’s advice for new pupils starting in September is simple: “Throw yourself into absolute everything. There’s not a club I haven’t tried out! Also do the work from the beginning because it pays off in the end.”
Thomas under Starters Orders for Durham
Keen athlete Thomas is under starters orders for the University of Durham where he’ll read Business & Management after opening an envelope full of A*s and an A grades on A Level results day. Thomas is looking forward to a deep dive into his subject and getting stuck into athletics once at uni.
Thomas joined Caterham from The Hawthorns School and has relished the academic and sporting life at senior school: “Caterham helped me a lot so it’ll be sad to move on but I’m keen to take the next step. I’d like to thank my teachers, especially Mr James, l who has pushed me and supported me and has been a great mentor.”
Thomas’ advice for new pupils moving up to Caterham from The Hawthorns and other schools this September is simply to get stuck in: “Enjoy your time and get involved in as much as you can. The Sixth Form is fun – get stuck into the learning in the Lower Sixth as that really helps.”
Oxford Beckons for Academic Isabelle
With a high grade offer, Isabelle had a restless night waiting to hear whether they had been awarded a place. A*A*A grades sealed the deal and they are off to study Philosophy and Psychology at prestigious Oxford. “I am really excited to be going to such a historic and beautiful university to study with academics passionate about the same subjects as me.”
Having enjoyed seven years at Caterham since joining from The Hawthorns School, Isabelle reflected on their time here: “It has been such a journey. I am going to miss the little everyday experiences that we share with friends and teachers. Music is a big part of my life so I have enjoyed the orchestras and choirs as well as performing on stage in school productions. CCF has been really rewarding, there are tough challenges that create such strong bonds with the unit. In Sixth Form I loved Study Buddy where we mentor younger pupils”
“All my teachers have been lovely and so supportive and I will miss them all. Big thanks to Miss Henry, Head of Psychology who has helped me so much with my Oxford application and gave me extension sessions. I really credit her support in helping me to gain my place”
What is Isabelle’s advice for new pupils? “Embrace all the activities and clubs at Caterham, it’s a great way to make new friends and find new interests”
