We hear many stories of the experiences of our boys who demonstrate initiative in service, studies or co-curriculum. Recently I had a lunchtime conversation with Daniel Bloch, a Year 11 IB Diploma student. He explained to me that he had been thinking ahead to his post school options. While searching for scholarship opportunities, he came across Year 11 examination preparation courses at Cambridge University for July 2013. With the support of family he applied and was accepted. Daniel had a stroke of good luck in being upgraded to Business Class on his way to England.
His first impression of Cambridge was every bit as exciting as he had imagined. As the only Australian on the course, and sharing two weeks with students from many countries all over the world, Daniel made friends that will last a lifetime. Studying mathematics with a Russian tutor, Economics with a Swedish tutor and Biology and Literature with two British tutors was intensive. Homework sessions were optional but strongly recommended to keep up with the pace of delivery. University students acted as Deans and made sure that all the students had many options for fun, ranging from sports competitions to Shakespearean plays in the park to movies and even punting on the River Cam. With daylight hours lasting until 10.30pm, Daniel and his new friends made the most of what was on offer and he finished his two weeks exhausted but exhilarated.
As a result of his experiences, Daniel followed up on two exciting leads for future options. His friends had siblings who were enjoying the highly regarded School of Business at Rotterdam's Erasmus University and spoke very highly of the experience. Alternatively on the basis of a chance discussion with Scotch teacher Brendon Noble, Daniel travelled by train to Exeter University in the very pretty area of Cornwall. Based on a discussion with one of the Directors of the university, Daniel was given to understand that if he manages a score of 32 points, he would be considered highly favourably for acceptance to the university with real possibilities for a scholarship.
Daniel returned to Scotch somewhat jetlagged but with a clearer understanding of the world that is open to him. He has sent me photos of his experiences and they can be found here. While not everyone is able to access such an amazing experience, Daniel is a great source of knowledge for his peers, both IBDP and WACE. I am sure the future will hold many exciting things for him in the years ahead.
