Aaliyah Sharplin, Class of 2020.

Currently studying History and Politics at the University of Manchester. An international fencing champion, political campaigner and Head of the Debating Society, former Head Girl Aaliyah joined Bridgewater in 2015. Following a brief move to Winstanley College, Aaliyah returned to enjoy a successful Sixth Form learning journey, leaving in 2020 with three A-levels in History (A), Religious Studies (A*) and Psychology (A).

“I am currently in my first year of study at the University of Manchester, a position I could not have reached without the support I received from Mrs Minta and many other members of staff. I was provided with invaluable experiences that cannot be found anywhere else, from international trips to job preparation.

The community and bonds between students and teachers alike made for a great learning environment. The teachers and small class sizes both at GCSE and A-level made a usually difficult time enjoyable.

The life skills I was given have been carried into university life and beyond. As a student who used to suffer from the difficulties of Dyslexia, I had trouble adapting to academic tasks. However, the staff and students made me see there is nothing holding me back from pursuing an academic future and I will always be grateful to Bridgewater for the support and opportunities I received.”