Josh Martin, Class of 2026

Currently studying Human Sciences at the University of Oxford. Former Head Boy, Josh joined Bridgewater in Year 7 and continued his studies into Sixth Form, leaving in the summer of 2026 with four A Levels, in English Language (A*), Biology (A), History (A) and Business Studies (A).

“Upon completing my GCSEs, I opted to remain a Bridgewater student by pursuing my A Level studies within Sixth Form. My progress throughout Senior School had provided me not only with cherished memories, but a brilliant academic foundation from which I could earnestly tackle my more advanced studies.

As a uniquely small school, Bridgewater persistently focuses on producing an academic culture that holds all students at its heart. Whilst many schools do attempt such a feat, it is the personal level that Bridgewater excels at in particular. It was this personal aspect that I consistently felt during my time in Seniors and I would deem it one of the school’s strongest qualities. Consequently, heading into Sixth Form I expected a similar environment that focused on the progression of each individual. My expectations were exceeded. The smaller class sizes allowed each individual to receive assistance and encouragement at a rate unseen in other larger colleges. This then permits students to progress through the course at a pace comfortable for them, and also provides more time for reflection and revision, which is crucial at A Level where the depth of knowledge required for each subject increases notably.

A Levels are one of the greatest academic challenges any student will have to face. The personal support accessible to pupils via the distinctive size of Bridgewater’s classes provides an environment in which no student is left trailing in their studies. Personally, I thrived as a result of this unique benefit, as the school gladly accommodated my undertaking of four A Levels, a feat I truly believe would be unachievable without the personal backing the Sixth Form provided.

I also found having teachers that had known me for years to be extremely advantageous, as their styles of teaching had already been tailored to get the very best out of me. Furthermore, it was their constant encouragement that helped me throughout every step of my university application, ultimately resulting in my acceptance to study at the University of Oxford.

Whilst I have talked about the academic benefits of smaller class sizes, I do not wish to distract from the familial bonds that I made at Bridgewater. It is truly a perfect mixture of both intellectual and social development, and for that reason alone I would highly recommend it to anyone considering their options after GCSEs.”