An Aspiring neuroscientist has made history as Bradford Grammar School’s first international student to complete A Levels – securing a place at the University of Cambridge.
Richard W, 19, achieved four A*s in Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Further Maths and will go on to study Natural Sciences, with hopes of a future career in neuroscience research.
He said: “I feel that my hard work has paid off and I received the results I deserve. Can’t wait for the journey ahead; new environment, new friends and everything.”
Born in Shanghai, Richard joined BGS in the Sixth Form after moving to the UK with his mother, a university academic who had taken up a four-year role at the University of Huddersfield. When her post was cut short and she returned home, Richard chose to stay behind, moving in with a host family in Huddersfield so he could continue his studies.
BGS sponsored Richard’s visa for the two years of A Level study, guiding him and his family through the process and giving support when needed.
“Coming to the UK was a big step, but I saw it as a chance to master English, experience a completely different culture and give myself the best shot at reaching my academic goals,” he said. “BGS turned out to be the perfect choice – not only earning me a place at one of the UK’s most prestigious universities, but also offering a welcoming community and an affordability that made it realistic for international students like me.”
During his time at BGS, Richard immersed himself in school life. He was a dedicated member of the table tennis team and enjoyed squash, badminton and debating, alongside academic societies such as the Senior STEM Club and volunteering in the Junior School – all of which supported his successful university application.
He praised the role BGS staff played in helping him reach his goals, highlighting the influence of teachers like Mr Crabtree, Mr Tapscott, Mr Walton and Mrs Heywood, as well as the Sixth Form team who supported his UCAS application.
“Mrs Smith gave up lunchtimes to do Oxbridge sessions with me and, along with Mrs Thornton, helped me prepare with mock interviews,” he said. “Dr Hinchliffe guided me through my EPQ, and I’m incredibly grateful to Mrs Flaherty for arranging a week-long placement at the University of Oxford.”
Richard will take up his place at Cambridge this autumn, continuing his journey toward a career in neuroscience research.“I’ve known since my early teens that I wanted to be a scientist, and that vision powered me through every challenge – even the tough days missing my family in China,” he said.
“Cambridge is a platform where I can keep climbing. Its flexibility and interdisciplinary focus are exactly what I was looking for. I want to devote myself to understanding how the brain works – and how we can use that understanding to improve lives.”
Asked what advice he would give to other international students, Richard said:
“Be brave. Have integrity. Be open to challenges. I know how hard it can be to leave everything behind, but if you do – you’ll find yourself among like-minded peers.”
He added: “To BGS, thank you. I will always be grateful for every small kindness that made this journey possible.”
“BGS turned out to be the perfect choice – not only earning me a place at one of the UK’s most prestigious universities, but also offering a welcoming community and an affordability that made it realistic for international students like me.”