Russel LVI Pupil and SpringBoard Scholar

My academic achievements are the reason I now attend Merchiston. I was awarded a fully paid bursary via the Springboard Foundation to attend Merchiston after going through a process of interviews and testing. The purpose of the bursary is to give students a chance to attend a school which their own families could never afford to send them to otherwise. 

Before I came to Merchiston, I attended a state school in my home town of Chester. I lived on a council estate called Blacon, so I guess it is safe to say that Merchiston was like a whole different world to me.  Upon arriving at Merchiston, all of the staff and students were so welcoming! For me, that was the point I knew I would enjoy my time at Merchiston.

Coming to Merchiston has made me want to excel and try harder in my academic studies. I am enjoying all of the lessons I have taken. At the moment Politics is my favourite lesson as we study both the UK and worldwide politics. So far, I love the sporting aspect of the School, which is good as this is a big part of boarding school life. The co-curricular activities at Merchiston are fantastic; I have continued my music lessons and also to continue my long career as a cadet which will help me with life after I leave Merchiston. The way the School balances lessons and activities makes boarding more fun because as well as learning you are also taking part in activities you enjoy and it becomes a big part of your life. 

After my two years of attending Merchiston, I hope to go on to university to study Politics.  I have been a member of cadets since I was ten years old, and after university, I wish to fulfil my dream of joining the Royal Marines Corps as an officer and progress up the ranks.