Landmark And Beyond: Stories From Our Alumni
In this blog we bring you the stories of three of our Alumni, connecting their time at Landmark to where they are now.
Tom Fox - Graduated 2018, Studying Linguistics at The University of Cambridge
Tom Fox is about to embark on a study of Linguistics at The University of Cambridge
What stands out most about my time at Landmark is the support we received. Every student enjoys the benefit of a tailored education, thanks to small class sizes and dedicated teachers; and with the full support of my tutors, and the commitment of the administrative staff, I was able to obtain a high number of qualifications at GCSE -- 13, with 11 A* grades -- something that would not have been possible elsewhere. This support extends far beyond academics: at a time when stress and mental health are urgent concerns for all young people, Landmark cultivates a friendly and relaxed environment, upheld by a firm sense of community. It was clear that the staff genuinely care about every student’s well-being, and increased interaction between year groups provided unique opportunities for mutual support and learning.
As I moved on to a large sixth form college in the city, it was clear to me that I was already ahead of my fellow students, who had not had access to the same extension support that I had enjoyed, and the confidence I gained as a Landmark student (having been a shy child) made me a natural stand-out in interviews for the University of Cambridge, where I am now reading Linguistics. My two years at Landmark laid the foundation of who and where I am today, and I can sincerely say I enjoyed every minute of it.
Sophia Milner - Graduated 2017, Studying Marine Biology at The University of Exeter
Sophia Milner who has just started Marine Biology at The University of Exeter
I came to Landmark at the beginning of year 11 because I no longer felt like I could fit in to other schools’ “one-size-fits-all” system. The staff at Landmark are some of the nicest people I’ve ever met, and they helped me get through a very difficult time. I was able to go to the sixth form I wanted feeling more confident in myself and ready to start a new chapter. I’ve just started studying Marine Biology at Exeter and without Landmark I know this wouldn’t have been possible!
Sree Marikinti - Graduated 2017, Studying Fine Art at Central St Martin’s, University of the Arts London
Sree Marikinti rejoined Landmark as a teaching assistant gaining the unique perspective of both a student and staff member.
I spent one year at Landmark, but have countless memories from my last year of secondary school. It was certainly a different year to most; new building, new students, new environment. But ultimately, the heart of the school now is the same as it always had been. Although it is full to the brim with students now, it started off as a small, tight-knit community, family even. I am lucky to have had such small class sizes, special care and attention and a year 11 group unlike any other. The common room was my pride and joy (the mural better be there until I am old and grey), and I am not sure how we didn’t get in more trouble considering how un-soundproof the walls were. What stood out to me about my year at Landmark was exam season. Whilst my friends at other schools were panicking about their exams, we were at the Fulbourn park reciting Latin verbs in the sun with a 99 whippy from the co-op. I am grateful for how unpressurised and relaxed my year was, and this by no means detracted from doing well.
By that point, I was set to go to The Leys for Sixth Form. I thoroughly enjoyed my two years there, studying Art, Classical Civilisation and Geography. On the side, I was in Chapel Choir (we had the opportunity to perform at incredible spaces like St Paul’s Cathedral), was Deputy Head of my house and did other Drama/Music related activities. Once my two years were up, the plan was to head to London for university. However, a spontaneous decision led to me returning to Landmark for a year working as a one-to-one Teaching Assistant. It was interesting being back in a school setting on the staff side of things. I certainly learnt a lot, and built a great relationship with the whole 2019/20 year 9 cohort. I will certainly miss them! I am now off to Central St Martin’s, UAL to study Fine Art for a year. Future plans are unclear, but teaching is on the horizon, and travelling is certain. I am very ready to move forward and carry on with my plans and ambitions when Covid settles. Fingers crossed!
