ABERDEEN’S Albyn School is delighted to share the remarkable achievement of its pupil, Rachel Gallagher, who has successfully secured her place at the prestigious Oxford University.
This exceptional accomplishment follows Rachel’s outstanding academic performance, reflecting her dedication and flair.
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Earlier this year, Rachel received a conditional offer from Mansfield College, Oxford. Her acceptance was contingent upon meeting the university’s entry requirements, a challenge she not only embraced but surpassed.
The Albyn pupil was over the moon when she learned she received four A’s at Advanced Higher level in Economics, English, French and History.
This achievement underscores her commitment to academic excellence across a diverse range of subjects.
“The offer has not been confirmed yet but I have got the grades so I think it will come pretty soon, which is exciting,” said Rachel who cannot wait to start her Oxford journey.
“Oxford is my first choice. Nobody from my family has gone to Oxford before.”
The talented young woman will start studying Law with French Law in October 2023.
Rachel said: “I am really interested in law and I think it is something that I will be good at. It appeals to my interests. I like understanding society and its regulations and how it all works together.
“I like to think about all the different aspects of moral issues as well as law’s practical implications. I think the way law influences everything in life is really interesting.”
The reason why she decided to also study French Law reflects Rachel’s commitment to excellence.
She said: “I want to study French because I have been learning French for 10 years and I am still not fluent and I am not going to stop until I am.”
Headmaster Stefan Horsman commented: “We are all very proud of Rachel. Her dedication serves as an inspiration to the entire Albyn School community, highlighting the rewards of perseverance and determination in the pursuit of higher education.”
Rachel, who joined Albyn School in 2008 when she was three years old, said the independent school creates a welcoming learning environment.
“Albyn School has a really nice community. I have made very good friends and I have felt very supported by all the teachers and support staff too,” shared the recent leaver.
During her time at Albyn, Rachel said she did “quite a lot”.
“I was the president of the Debating Society this and last year, which was great. I really enjoyed that.
“It allowed me to interact more with younger years too. Along with that, I also attended Model UN and I was part of the Newspaper Club. I have also contributed to other academic clubs from my first year so it was great to see my School and the clubs develop as well.
“I also played hockey for the School – it was just something different for me to get involved in and push myself.”
Results published by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) show that in S4, Albyn School pupils have achieved a 94% pass rate (A-C) at National 5, with 88% of grades at A or B level.
In S5, the pass rate (A-C) for Highers is also 94%. 85% of pupils received A-B grades at a Higher level, with 28 pupils (44% of the S5 year group) gaining all A grades in their 5 Higher exams.
Albyn School is also proud that 75% of pupils received A-B grades at Advanced Higher level, the gold standard for entrance to the top UK and overseas universities.
