Class of 2026: The Stories Behind the Grades

Inspiring Withington Stories and Bright Futures

As the Class of 2026 celebrates an exceptional set of A Level results, their achievements tell only part of the story. Behind every grade is a unique journey of ambition, resilience, friendship and personal growth. From future economists and marine biologists to historians, performers and community leaders, these students have made their mark on Withington and are now ready to make a difference in the wider world.

Tara: Leading with Purpose

Head Girl Tara’s Withington journey began in Year 3, and after 11 years at the school she leaves with an outstanding set of results: four A* grades in Biology, Chemistry, Further Mathematics and Mathematics, together with an A* in her EPQ. She is now preparing to study Economics and Management at Pembroke College, Oxford, with aspirations to work in the charity or NGO sector and create meaningful change.

Reflecting on her time at Withington, Tara said:

“I’ve enjoyed every part of my Withington journey, from Year 3 to today. But my favourite time has been Sixth Form. Every single girl is amazing. It’s genuinely been a privilege to watch everyone growing and moving towards their own specialities with such passion. My 11 years at Withington has given me the confidence to go out into the world and it’s nurtured in me a strong desire to make a difference and to give something back. I’m so excited about the future.”

Anya: Inspired to Protect Our Oceans

Anya’s passion for marine science began during a Withington STEM trip to Florida and grew through hands-on conservation work in Indonesia. Having secured a place to study a Master’s degree in Marine Biology and Oceanography at Bangor University, she is determined to pursue a career focused on tackling climate change and protecting the natural world.

Looking back on her school experience, Anya said:

“I joined Withington in Year 7 from a small primary school in Bury. From the start, the teachers have been incredible, and I’ve made the loveliest friends. My whole experience has been amazing. I’ve found the whole school community very supportive. We’ve always been encouraged at Withington to dream big and to make a difference.”

Rosie: Finding Confidence and Community

Rosie achieved a clean sweep of A* grades in Drama, History and Politics, capping off a remarkable time at Withington. A member of the Head Girl team, she was deeply involved in school life, contributing to the Choir, appearing in productions including Sister Act and Legally Blonde Jr., representing the school in Hockey and participating in Mock Trial. She is now planning a gap year before pursuing a degree in History and Politics.

Rosie said:

“I joined Withington in Year 10 which isn’t a usual entry point but I quickly found that I was supported by everyone here. The girls and teachers all made me feel immediately at home. It’s a special place. Everyone is so kind, everyone is so joyous and there is a strong feeling that there is no barrier to what we can achieve. I can’t imagine getting to where I am today without Withington.”

Orli: A Voice for Music and Wellbeing

For Orli, music has been at the heart of her Withington experience. Having joined the Junior School in Year 4, she developed her talents across singing, flute and piano, earning a Singing Diploma and achieving Grade 8 flute. She became a valued member of choirs, orchestras and ensembles, performed in school productions and also served as a Mental Health Coordinator, supporting the wellbeing of fellow students. After securing her required grades in Music, Politics and Psychology, Orli will now go on to study Music with Popular Music at the Royal Northern College of Music.

Reflecting on her journey, Orli said:

“WGS has given me so many chances to develop my music inside and outside lessons. I definitely wouldn’t be going into a music degree without the support from so many of my teachers. All of my subject teachers have been more than willing to help me improve and gain confidence in my lessons. I can’t thank my teachers enough. They believed that I could do it. They gave me support. They gave me confidence. It’s such a friendly, welcoming, hugely supportive environment and I feel lucky to have made life-long friends.”

Emily: Using Music to Inspire Others

Emily is Cambridge-bound after securing outstanding A Level results and confirming her place to study Music at Sidney Sussex College, where she has also been awarded a prestigious Choral Scholarship. Having joined Withington in Year 3, Emily’s musical journey has flourished throughout her time at school, from her earliest singing lessons to achieving Grade 8 Singing and becoming an accomplished performer, composer and musician.

Her contributions have extended far beyond the classroom. Emily has sung in choirs, played French Horn in the orchestra, composed and performed her own music, and played an active role in school leadership as a member of the Head Girl team. She has also been deeply committed to partnership work and fundraising, supporting the Gambia Team trip in 2024 and inspiring younger pupils through community initiatives such as Manchester Sings. One particularly memorable moment came when she performed her original composition, Hope, for children from participating primary schools.

Reflecting on her Withington experience, Emily said:

“Since starting in the Juniors, I’ve had so many opportunities, not just in music. My Withington highlights have included being part of the Head Girl team, which has been good for self-reflection, and having the opportunity to make new friendships in Sixth Form. And the teachers I’ve had have definitely been a highlight. Their support goes way beyond the curriculum, encouraging us all to pursue our passions.”

Maisa: Turning Ambition into Achievement

Inspired from an early age by her parents’ careers as GPs, Maisa set her sights firmly on a future in Medicine. Her determination and focus have now been rewarded with exceptional A Level results, including three A*s and an A in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics and Further Mathematics, securing her place to study Medicine at Imperial College London.

Having joined Withington in Year 7, Maisa embraced the opportunities offered both inside and outside the classroom. Alongside her passion for science and mathematics, she has enjoyed pursuing interests in music and kickboxing, developing the balance, resilience and self-discipline that have supported her academic success.

Looking ahead to university life and a future career in healthcare, Maisa feels confident and well prepared for the next stage of her journey.

Maisa reflected:

“My time here has been so good. I really feel that at Withington, particularly as it’s a girls’ school, I’ve been given the confidence to grow as a person, especially in my formative years. I feel well prepared and am now really looking forward to my next chapter.”

Looking Ahead

The stories of Tara, Anya, Rosie, Orli, Emily and Maisa demonstrate that success at Withington is about far more than academic achievement. It’s about discovering passions, developing confidence, building lasting friendships and finding the courage to shape the future. As the Class of 2026 embarks on the next stage of their journeys, we are immensely proud of all they have achieved and look forward to seeing the impact they will make in the years ahead.