Sam

Sam is a budding mathematician at NewVIc Sixth Form Centre. She’s in the second year of her A Levels, studying Geography, Business, Maths and Further Maths and plans to build a career in the research on the endless possibilities of maths and teach future mathematicians as a professor. She is actively involved in sixth form life, taking advantage of the many opportunities available to students at NewVIc Sixth Form.

This academic year, Sam joined the Marketing Student Ambassador Programme (a Head Marketing Student Ambassador), proudly represented the Sixth Form Centre in the UK Senior Maths Challenge, a prestigious national competition organised by the UK Mathematics Trust (UKMT) and also led Maths tutoring sessions for students completing GCSE resits last year, demonstrating her strong subject knowledge. We caught up with Sam to find out about her journey.

What made you choose NewVIc?

I chose NewVIc because I don’t like the style of a traditional sixth form. NewVIc offered me the freedom and independence of a college while also providing the extensive support and structure needed to succeed in A Level studies.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO STUDY A LEVELS?

I study A Level Geography, Business, Mathematics and Further Mathematics. When considering my options, I have always preferred examinations over coursework, which meant A Levels suited my learning style better than vocational courses or T Levels. I also aspire to become a mathematics professor; completing A Level courses is a necessary step towards achieving this goal.

How have you found SIXTH FORM so far?

Although exams can be stressful, I have thoroughly enjoyed sixth form so far. I have formed genuine connections within supportive communities and gained a strong sense of independence beyond secondary school.

My teachers are incredibly supportive while maintaining high expectations, and they consistently show genuine care for my future. Sixth form has helped me build confidence and shape my overall character, allowing me to understand myself better.

Is there anything you wish you had known that you do now?

A Levels are completely different from GCSEs; the content is much more demanding, and there is far less structure. This difference became especially clear in A Level Mathematics, which feels closer to GCSE Further Mathematics than GCSE Maths, yet still involves significantly more content and complexity. Adjusting to this level of independence and academic challenge has been difficult at times, but it has helped me develop strong time-management and study skills.

If I am honest, one thing I wish I had done earlier was research my future pathway in more detail. While I have always had a clear idea of what I want to do, I only later realised how important subject choices and entry requirements can be for certain university courses. Some degrees require specific A Levels or additional entrance exams, and understanding this earlier would have made the process less stressful. This experience has taught me the importance of planning ahead and being proactive about my academic decisions.

Who is the most inspiring person you have ever met?

The most inspiring person I have ever met is my dad. He is a mechanical and environmental engineer who is both ambitious and hardworking, and he has always believed in me. He has never doubted my capabilities and has consistently encouraged me to do my best, even when I doubted myself.

Most importantly, he has taught me to pursue a career based on passion and genuine interest rather than money alone; fortunately, I have found a path that brings together both fulfilment and stability.

Tell us about being A HEAD MARKETING AMBASSADOR, SHADOWING GCSE RESIT CLASSES AND YOUR success in UKMT Senior Maths Challenge?

Being a Head Marketing Student Ambassador has helped me develop both my confidence and leadership skills. Leading a group of people, especially those you barely know, takes a lot of courage. However, the sixth form marketing team, including both staff and students, have always been incredibly warm and welcoming, which has given me the motivation and support to continue in this role. If the opportunity ever arises, I would strongly encourage others to apply for the position of Head Marketing Student Ambassador.

I also took the initiative to ask my teacher if I could shadow several GCSE resit classes to support students who were struggling with mathematics. This experience challenged me to adapt to different learners and understand a range of learning styles. Despite the challenge, I found the experience extremely rewarding, as I enjoyed teaching others a subject I am passionate about. If given the opportunity, I would happily do it again.

I participated in the UKMT Maths Challenge with 16 other A Level students and was awarded a bronze certificate. The competition challenged me to think creatively and approach problems from multiple angles, even when solutions were not immediately obvious. Working through these problems helped me develop my analytical thinking and increased my confidence in tackling unfamiliar questions. The experience has inspired me to continue improving my problem-solving skills and pursue more advanced mathematical challenges.

What is your advice for students considering NewVIc?

Attending open days is a great way to get a genuine feel for the sixth form. I would encourage you to ask as many questions as you need to both students and staff. If you happen to see me at an open day, feel free to come up and talk to me - I am always more than happy to answer any questions.

I would also strongly recommend getting involved in at least one extracurricular activity, both within and outside of sixth form. This helped me build confidence, meet new people and develop skills that will be valuable for my future, including employability and teamwork.

Being open with your teachers and asking questions whenever you need to is equally important. Building positive relationships with your teachers makes academics far less stressful and helps you enjoy your subjects more, which has made a huge difference to my experience.

Finally, don’t take Year 1 for granted! Enjoy yourself, socialise and make the most of the lighter pressure compared to Year 2, but make sure you stay consistent with your studies and fully understand the content. Doing this early on will make the transition into Year 2 far more manageable, as it is significantly more demanding.

So what’s next?

After sixth form, I want to pursue a career as a mathematics professor because I am fascinated by the endless possibilities within mathematics and would like to contribute to research while teaching and guiding future mathematicians. Achieving this goal would require progressing through higher education and earning a PhD in Mathematics. I am aware that this path is challenging, taking at least seven years of study and requiring both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, but I am motivated by the long-term fulfilment that comes from contributing to both academic research and education.