Kai - Alumni Spotlight

Kai, Centre Back, Residential Trip, Ogwen Cottage

Joining LIS and Building Community

I joined LIS in Year 5, and straight away felt like a part of the international community. The small classes allow you to build strong friendships with other students and teachers, which I think is very important for learning and collaboration. During my 5 years a secondary student, went on many memorable trips, my favourites being the trip to the Excel Centre in London, since I'm very interested in STEM, and the residential trip to France, as I just really liked learning French. I also loved the trip to Snowdonia; the expedition up mountains with heavy rucksacks was not easy, but it quickly taught my group and I how to work together and look after each other.

Academic Support and Opportunities

I would not have received the grades that I got at GCSE had it not been for the dedication of the teachers to make sure that I understood every detail of what I was learning, and that I could apply that knowledge in different ways. The dedication goes beyond just GCSE; the teachers really want you to progress in what you're interested in. I was given the opportunity to take part in multiple Latin speaking competitions, UKMT maths challenges, and STEM-based awards. I remember Mrs. Gibbs suggesting that I apply for an Arkwright engineering scholarship; she went through the process with me each week, and thanks to her I got the scholarship, which lets me connect with various engineering industries, and do work experience, during my 2 years of A-level study.

A-Levels and University Plans

I'm currently in my second year of A-levels, taking maths, further maths, physics, and chemistry, revising as much as possible for my upcoming exams. I'm predicted 2 As and 2 A*s, which I'll need to get to meet my university offers: to me it feels like a high bar, but with enough work I think I'll be able to achieve those grades. After my A-levels I'm planning to study mechanical engineering, hopefully with a year in industry; I've got offers from the universities of Manchester and Sheffield, and I'm about to have my interview with Imperial College London.

Advice for Current Students

My advice for current students would be to pay attention in lessons, keep up with homework, but most of all make solid friendships with your peers, and enjoy the process. Every student will end up with amazing and varied career paths: after all, they're being taught by the very best.

Kai, Leavers Assembly, 2025