Delight for Radclyffe School alumni thanks to Oxbridge offers

Three former students of the Radclyffe School in Chadderton have received offers to study at the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge, marking a significant achievement for the school and the wider Oldham community.

Lemaa Alisha, Daisy Greenwood, and James Walsh, all of whom went on to study at Oldham Sixth Form College after leaving Radclyffe in 2023, have secured places at some of the most competitive and prestigious universities in the world.

Lemaa has been offered a place to study Law at The University of Oxford, an achievement she describes as "a dream come true."

As the first in her family to attend university, she says her family were “over the moon” when they heard the news.

Lemaa has always been passionate about making a difference, and she believes studying Law will allow her to create real change.

“Human rights law is one of the best ways to help people and challenge injustice,” she explained.

Her journey to Oxford began when she attended a summer access programme that introduced her to university life there.

“That experience made me realise Oxford was a real possibility for me. It helped me believe in myself,” she said.

The application process was rigorous, including three virtual interviews.

Now, she is focused on her ALevel exams and preparing for Opportunity Oxford, a programme designed to support students from non-traditional backgrounds as they transition into university life.

For current students thinking about their future, Lemaa offers this advice: “You don’t have to have everything figured out right now.

"Pick subjects that interest you and work hard - you might surprise yourself with what you can achieve.”

Daisy has received an offer to study English Literature and Language at University of Oxford, a subject she has loved since secondary school.

Recalling the moment she received the news, she admitted: “I was in shock for a week.

"I rang my mum straight away, and we both started crying on the phone together!”

Daisy credits her time at the Radclyffe School for helping her develop the confidence and skills to succeed.

She said: “The grades I got at GCSE were important since Oxford looks at them carefully.

"Radclyffe supported me to achieve the best I could, and the clubs I was part of helped me grow in confidence.”

Now, she is looking forward to the opportunities ahead, particularly the chance to “study English forever and ever” and meet like-minded people who share her passion.

She is considering a future in academia, saying: “Being an English lecturer would be really cool, or maybe a college teacher.

"As long as I’m doing English, I’ll be happy!”

James (pictured above), a former Head Boy at the Radclyffe School, has secured an offer to study Engineering at The University of Cambridge.

As the first in his immediate family to attend university, his success is a proud moment for both him and his family.

James initially hadn’t considered Cambridge, but after excelling at Oldham Sixth Form College, he was encouraged to apply.

“I discovered that I was one of the top-performing students, and my inclusion in the OSFC Varsity Programme brought Cambridge onto my radar,” he explained.

Balancing a demanding Oxbridge preparation programme alongside four A-Levels, James dedicated around 14 hours a week to additional study.

His efforts were further recognised when he was named an OxNet Scholar, a title awarded to just 22 students nationwide by the University of Oxford.

Beyond the classroom, James fully immersed himself in clubs, extra tuition sessions, and cadets, seizing every opportunity to expand his learning.

His advice to his year 7 self would be to “embrace the challenges and keep pushing forward. Sign up for every opportunity and club available, but most importantly work hard.”

Looking ahead to Cambridge, James said: “I’m excited about the collaborative learning environment, the stimulating discussions with peers and professors, and the chance to explore subjects I’m passionate about."

Headteacher at the Radclyffe School, John Cregg, said: “We are thrilled to hear the news of the success of Lemaa, Daisy and James.

"They were outstanding students during their time at the Radclyffe School, in terms of both academic progress and their contribution to school life.

“It is no surprise to us that they have achieved offers from such prestigious universities and we wish them every success for their future studies and careers.”

The success of Lemaa, Daisy, and James serves as an inspiration to younger students, proving that with determination and hard work, opportunities at the highest levels of education are within reach.

As they prepare for their A-Level exams and the next stage of their academic journeys, their achievements are a testament to the potential of students from Oldham.

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