STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS
Voices of the IB Journey
Voice of the IB Journey
At ACS Egham, every student follows a unique path – but all are united by the International Baccalaureate (IB) ethos of inquiry, reflection, and personal growth. In this special spotlight, we meet six Upper School students who share their perspectives on the IB experience, their ambitions, and the community that supports them.
Alex – Grade 11
“The IB gives you the freedom to explore your interests while building real-world skills.”
Alex, a first-year IB student, is thriving in the breadth and challenge of the Diploma Programme. Studying Biology, Economics, History, Maths, English, and French, Alex has learned the value of time management and intellectual curiosity.
A passionate student of both History and Economics, Alex is planning to major in one and minor in the other at university – possibly at Boston College, the University of Melbourne, or universities across Europe and Canada.
Beyond academics, Alex plays basketball and participates in a business initiative where students design and pitch products. Alex praises the warm, supportive environment at ACS: “The kindness of the community and the close relationships with teachers make it a very special place.”
Charles – Grade 12
“The IB has prepared me not just for exams, but for life.”
Charles joined ACS Egham four years ago, transitioning from inner-city London to a green, nature-rich campus he says boosted both his focus and wellbeing. Now in Grade 12, he’s completing Higher Level Biology, Chemistry and Geography, with ambitions to study Zoology or Biology at university. He has applied to leading institutions including UCL, Queen Mary, and Oxbridge.
His time at ACS has also included theatre productions, international trips, and playing in a rock band. “There’s so much space to grow creatively and socially,” he says. “And the support from teachers – especially through detailed feedback – has been invaluable.”
Charlotte – Grade 11
“From the moment I joined, I felt welcomed and supported.”
A newer student to ACS Egham, Charlotte immediately noticed the warm, inclusive atmosphere and the dedication of her teachers. Studying Theatre Arts, Psychology, and Biology at Higher Level, Charlotte sings in the choir, dances, and was part of the school musical ‘Madagascar’,
Charlotte uses strategies like time-blocking to manage her studies effectively, and she’s weighing two very different – but equally exciting – future paths: studying Psychology to become a children’s counsellor, or attending drama school for Musical Theatre.
She credits the school’s university counselling team with helping her keep both options open: “It’s such a nurturing space to grow and explore who you want to be.”
Marcus – Grade 11
“The IB gives you freedom. MUN gave me a voice.”
Marcus has been part of the ACS community since Grade 7, and he’s found both academic challenge and personal confidence through the IB. As someone with dyslexia, Marcus is grateful for the tailored support he’s received – particularly from teachers like Miss Garlick and Mr Schwartz, who’ve made a lasting impact on his learning journey.
Now co-president of the school’s Model United Nations (MUN) club, Marcus leads student-run conferences and attends international events, including in The Hague MUN. He hopes to study International Relations in the future, and sees the school as the perfect training ground: “It’s helped me become more confident, more communicative, and more globally aware.”
Sophia – Grade 12
“The IB makes you step outside your comfort zone—and grow.”
Sophia, now in her fifth year at ACS Egham, believes the IB has shaped her as a creative and resilient learner. Studying Literature, Psychology, and Biology at Higher Level, Sophia is applying to university programmes in Graphic Design and Digital Media at institutions such as Edinburgh, Leeds, UCL, and King’s.
She especially values the diversity of thought fostered at ACS: “You’re surrounded by students from so many backgrounds, and it opens your mind to new perspectives and creative thinking.”
For Sophia, the IB journey has gone beyond academics – it’s been a catalyst for personal discovery, preparing her to take the next step with confidence.
Sofia – Grade 11
“The IB helps you think critically, not just answer questions.”
Sofia has been part of ACS Egham for ten years, and is now on the path toward a career in medicine. With Higher Level Chemistry, Biology, and Spanish, she’s applying to top UK universities including Oxford, UCL, Imperial, and Queen Mary.
She sees the IB as a powerful tool for future readiness: “The Extended Essay, the PYP Exhibition, the MYP Personal Project – they all train you in independent thinking, research, and organisation.”
She celebrates the school’s global perspective, with friendships from every continent and a campus that blends tranquillity with easy access to central London. “It’s the perfect balance,” she says. “You feel focused, supported, and inspired.”
Ready for What’s Next
These student voices represent just a glimpse of our vibrant, international, and intellectually rich community at ACS Egham. From business pitches to biology labs, rock bands to MUN conferences, the opportunities for personal and academic growth are boundless – and our students are ready to make their mark on the world.
