Bursary Testimonials

I vividly remember the call I got during remote learning in secondary school where my head of year asked “Hi Judy, what do you think of boarding school”. At the moment I wasn’t quite sure which sixth form to go to - when this opportunity came about. I’m forever grateful that I took the opportunity and went to Calne for sixth form. At the end of it I got two A*s and one A and now I am studying my dream course: Dentistry at Birmingham.

One of my biggest concerns was not having an idealistic environment to focus on my studies and journey and boarding at Calne provided the best atmosphere to be learning and living in. I had an amazing support group with my friends, the house staff and my amazing tutor who all really helped me balance studying with socialising and supporting me mentally through the tough path to dentistry. I believe Calne helped build my confidence and discipline to allow me to be where I am.

Boarding also prepared me a lot for university life and being independent. I found that I easily adjusted to living away from home at uni a lot easier and quicker than my coursemates and I have built a level of independence in general.

I was initially a bit scared to join Calne as it was so far south, a small school full of people who had grown up with a different life than me. However, I found myself settling into life over time and really growing to love the bonds and domesticity of being at school and with a community in which I can thrive. Besides the learning aspect, I enjoyed the fun activities on the weekend, the different celebrations in the house and the opportunity to swim again.

This bursary provided me with lots of wonderful memories at Calne, memories that I look back on and will continue to reminisce on.