STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS
Celebrating the Class of 2025
At ACS Cobham, we take great pride in the journeys our students undertake during their time here – both in the classroom and beyond. In this edition of Student Spotlight, we shine a light on five graduating students from the Class of 2025 whose stories reflect the diversity, ambition, and spirit of our international school community.
Broderick – Pursuing Creativity Through Game Design
Broderick, a Grade 12 student, has embraced the International Baccalaureate (IB) for its balance between academic structure and creative exploration. Alongside his academic studies, he actively pursues karate and drumming, crediting the IB with helping him manage his time effectively while nurturing his personal passions.
His real inspiration lies in digital design. After taking a game design course in Grade 10 – which included 3D modelling and work with Unreal Engine – Broderick has decided to pursue a career in the industry. He will be attending Escape Studios in London, a top-tier institution for digital arts, to further his skills in game design and development.
Broderick credits the school’s university guidance and excellent facilities – including laser cutters, 3D printers, and a new esports suite – for helping him build a strong portfolio and prepare for his future.
ACS has always encouraged me to pursue what I love. The opportunities are endless, and the school constantly evolves to meet our interests.
Sophia – Journey of Growth, Confidence, and Global Perspective
Sophia, a Grade 12 student at ACS Cobham, joined the school in Grade 9 after relocating from California. What began as a daunting move across the world quickly became a transformative experience, thanks to the school’s inclusive and internationally-minded community. Sophia speaks warmly of the friendships she has formed with peers from around the globe, describing them as one of the most rewarding aspects of her ACS journey.
Academically, Sophia followed a science-focused pathway through the AP programme. She appreciated the flexibility ACS offered, allowing her to tailor her learning to match her interests and strengths. She also received highly personalised support from the Learning Resource Centre, where staff – particularly Ms. Tyson – helped her develop strategies to manage ADHD and dyslexia. This tailored guidance not only improved her academic performance, but also significantly boosted her confidence.
Beyond the classroom, Sophia thrived in the school’s sports programme. As a committed athlete in both basketball and football, she took part in international tournaments, gaining valuable experiences in teamwork, resilience, and leadership. These opportunities, she says, were uniquely enriching and unlike anything she had experienced at previous schools.
Sophia also praised the campus environment – clean, well-resourced, and cared for by staff who clearly take pride in creating a positive atmosphere for students. She found the facilities to be a major contributor to her overall wellbeing and motivation.
The university counselling team has been incredible. They helped me prepare for both US and UK university systems, guiding me through essays and extracurricular alignment.
Charlotte L – Finding Independence Through the IB
Since joining ACS Cobham in Grade 11, Charlotte has made a lasting impression – both inside and outside the classroom. In just two years, she has not only excelled academically, earning the prestigious Salutatorian Award, but has also fully immersed herself in the opportunities and experiences that define student life at ACS.
Charlotte chose the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme for its academic breadth and structure. With subjects ranging from Psychology and English to Economics and Maths, she appreciated the flexibility it offered as she explored different academic interests.
She credits the IB with helping her develop a stronger sense of independence and accountability. Learning to prioritise, meet deadlines, and manage her own schedule became valuable life skills – the skills she believes will serve her well.
Charlotte has received an offer to study Psychological and Behavioural Sciences at Cambridge, a significant milestone that reflects both her academic strength and commitment to her chosen path. She describes the support from ACS Cobham’s college counselling team as crucial, particularly when navigating the unfamiliar UK university system. With personalised guidance on UCAS, personal statements, and application timelines, Charlotte felt confident and well-prepared throughout the process.
Outside the classroom, Charlotte has been an active member of the ACS community. She participates in the school’s competitive swimming programme and has travelled abroad with the Model United Nations team, gaining global perspective and leadership skills. Her commitment to service is reflected in her involvement with organisations such as Cancer Relief and the Refugee Action Club, where she has contributed to causes that matter to her.
The independence ACS Cobham gives students was a big change from my previous school in Australia – and one I really appreciated.
Charlotte H – Achieving Academic Excellence with Balance
For Charlotte, education at ACS Cobham has been more than just a pursuit of academic success – it has been a journey of growth, leadership, and personal discovery. Joining the school in Grade 9, Charlotte has completed her entire high school experience at ACS and, in her final year, was recognised as the Valedictorian of the Class of 2025 for achieving the highest academic average in her cohort.
Charlotte chose the International Baccalaureate (IB) for its intellectual challenge and range. Her Higher Level subjects – Business Management, Economics, and Maths Applications and Interpretation – reflect her analytical mindset, while her Standard Level courses in English, Biology, and French show her commitment to a well-rounded education. She credits the IB for helping her develop essential skills in time management, self-discipline, and independent learning, all while maintaining balance with her personal interests.
Among those interests is a passion for co-curricular involvement. Charlotte has been a dedicated member of Model United Nations, including a trip to Ireland where she debated global issues with peers from other schools. She also participates in beekeeping, an unusual but rewarding club that reflects the school’s encouragement of curiosity and hands-on learning. Additionally, she enjoys playing golf and is an active member of the National Honor Society, where she contributes to student-led initiatives.
When it came to applying for university, Charlotte received an offer from the London School of Economics (LSE) – a testament to both her academic excellence and her thoughtful preparation. She found the college counselling support at ACS Cobham invaluable, especially in crafting her personal statement and navigating the university application process with clarity and confidence.
What I love most about ACS is the atmosphere – it’s diverse, collaborative, and full of opportunities.
These students represent just a few of the remarkable individuals in the Class of 2025. From the arts and sciences to sports and service, their stories highlight the many paths students can take at ACS Cobham – and the guidance, support, and freedom they’re given to forge futures that are uniquely their own.
