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2026 JULY 2026

2026

our student magazine

CONTENTS Celebrating modern languages

Our Young Enterprise story

Exploring French culture beyond the classroom

Super Curricular Group

Capturing the pulse of the city

From Hong Kong streets to London fashion

From Monet to Meyerowitz

Students inspire future teachers

Photographer of the month

Students welcome climate panel

Friendship through football

Student stories

Staff vs students football match

A night to remember

Cracking codes at Bletchley Park

Teacher Hotseat

Olympian Abi Oyepitan

Creative writing

A family affair

2026 in photos

Cover images The artwork on the front and back cover is by A level student, Liorah. The two large mixed media paintings depict the Red Road flats in North Glasgow. The paintings explore the positive and negative impacts the housing complex had on residents’ lives. Using a combination of textiles, painting, and screen printing, the works reflect the social history and legacy of the flats, which were built in the 1960s to address Glasgow’s post-war social housing crisis. 2

our student magazine 2026

NOTE FROM THE EDITORS Dear Readers, A swirl of excitement has taken hold of the College as the academic year draws to a close and we begin heading down different paths.

Thank you to all our @BC authors and contributors.

We believe this magazine is a great opportunity to reflect on the highlights from this year, and we sincerely hope you enjoy looking back on these moments as much as we have enjoyed living them. As Winston Churchill said, “This is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.” We hope this quote serves as an encouragement to you all that there are more adventures and opportunities to come next year, wherever you end up. Congratulations on all your hard work this year, and we wish you the best of luck in your future endeavours. We would like to say thank you to the staff who’ve supported us from day one, and everyone who’s helped bring this newsletter to life. Sincerely, Your Student Ambassadors

A photo by Oliver, see page 8 for full article 3

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CELEBRATING MODERN LANGUAGES After the quizzes, it was time to taste the languages! Students were invited to sample an array of delicious continental dishes, both savoury and sweet – but with one catch: they had to order in the language of the dish. French, Spanish, and Italian students took on the role of waiters, turning the lunch into a lively, multilingual café. The menu featured treats from across Europe, including Italian panettone, Spanish tortilla, and a tempting variety of French quiches.

On Wednesday 15th October 2025, the MFL department organised a languages lunch event in celebration of the European Day of Languages. The aim of the event was to highlight how every language opens a door – to new people, new cultures, and new ways of thinking. After all, language is far more than just grammar and vocabulary; it’s about connection. Whether you say ‘bonjour’, ‘hola’, ‘ciao’, or ‘hello’, each word brings us a little closer together. The event also encouraged students to appreciate the rich linguistic diversity that makes both Europe and Brampton College truly multicultural places.

‘After the quizzes, it was time to taste the languages! Students were invited to sample an array of delicious continental dishes, both savoury and sweet – but with one catch: they had to order in the language of the dish.’ 4

The celebration combined quizzes and food – the perfect pairing! During the lively Kahoot quizzes, students and staff teamed up to test their knowledge of European countries, languages, and cultures, as well as some fun linguistic facts about Brampton teachers. The competition was fierce but friendly, and the winning teams walked away with well-earned prizes.

According to the Head of MFL, who might be a bit biased, the most popular items of the day were the freshly made crêpes au Nutella and traditional tortillas, lovingly prepared by the French and Spanish teachers themselves! Students thoroughly enjoyed the event, embracing the chance to learn, laugh, and connect through language. It was a true celebration of cultural exchange – proof that food and conversation really are the best ways to bring people together.

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EXPLORING FRENCH CULTURE BEYOND THE CLASSROOM: BRAMPTON COLLEGE STUDENTS VISIT THE INSTITUT FRANÇAIS Brampton College’s Modern Languages department continues to thrive, offering students a rich and immersive experience that goes far beyond the classroom. With a strong emphasis on cultural engagement and real-world application, the College’s French A level course has been flourishing, both academically and in student enthusiasm! A recent highlight was the French cinema trip on 9th December, where French A level students visited the Institut Français and the Cine pière in South Kensington. They watched The Most Precious of Cargoes, a 2024 animated film by acclaimed director Michel Hazanavicius. Set in war-torn Poland, the film explores themes of love, humanity, and resilience – offering students a powerful lens through which to deepen their understanding of French language and culture. Before the screening, students sampled traditional French snacks from a local bakery, adding a sensory layer to the cultural experience. After the film, they gathered at the Gazette café inside the Institut Français for a feedback session. Over soft drinks, they discussed their impressions of the film and drew thoughtful comparisons with the French movie they study as part of their A level syllabus.

academic teaching with opportunities to explore language in context.

Trips like these are a key part of Brampton’s approach to language learning – making it dynamic, relevant, and inspiring. Students consistently achieve excellent results, and many go on to study languages at top universities. The department’s success lies in its ability to combine rigorous

The cinema trip sparked a renewed interest in French film and culture among the students, who found it refreshing to learn in a different environment. Experiences like this reinforce Brampton’s commitment to nurturing not just linguistic ability, but a genuine appreciation for the richness of global cultures.

‘ Trips like these are a key part of Brampton’s approach to language learning – making it dynamic, relevant, and inspiring. Students consistently achieve excellent results, and many go on to study languages at top universities.’ 5

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CAPTURING THE PULSE OF THE CITY:

JEANETTE BARNES INSPIRES ART STUDENTS On Wednesday 22nd October 2025, Art students were treated to a workshop led by acclaimed artist Jeanette Barnes, whose vast cityscapes and architectural drawings have earned her national recognition – and, most recently, an art prize celebrating her distinctive vision. Barnes’s work is known for its energetic, sweeping lines and its ability to translate the restless rhythm of urban life onto paper. She doesn’t merely depict buildings; she captures the movement, sound, and atmosphere of the city – the hum of traffic, the flux of people, the shifting light.

spontaneously, and to let the energy of observation guide their hand.

During the workshop, students had the chance to witness her process first hand. Barnes spoke passionately about her fascination with architecture and urban spaces, describing how her drawings grow from quick, gestural sketches into monumental compositions filled with vitality and texture. She encouraged students to embrace imperfection, to draw boldly and

As she demonstrated her techniques, the room buzzed with concentration and excitement. Students were invited to explore large-scale drawing themselves – stepping back from the easel, using their whole arm to make sweeping marks, and learning how scale can change the way an artwork feels. The session was not just about technique but about seeing

differently: recognising that cities are living, breathing organisms, full of stories and motion. By the end of the day, the room was filled with bold, expressive drawings – traces of individual interpretations of movement, architecture, and atmosphere. The workshop left a lasting impression, inspiring students to think bigger, draw braver, and observe the world around them with renewed intensity. This inspiring day reflects the thriving creativity within our Art and Photography Department, where students consistently achieve outstanding results through passion, exploration, and a deep commitment to developing their artistic voice. By Limor, student

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FROM MONET TO MEYEROWITZ: BRAMPTON STUDENTS CAPTURE PARIS The Art, Photography, and French A level students visited Paris from 13th-15th November 2025, exploring world renowned galleries, iconic landmarks, and unforgettable exhibitions. From Monet’s water lilies to Meyerowitz’s documentary photography, their reflections capture both the beauty of the city and the inspiration it sparked for their studies. Here, Oliver and Kento share their experiences. “When travelling to Paris for photography, I really enjoyed visiting the different galleries and seeing Paris Photo. It gave me a new perspective of looking at images on a gallery wall in the size the artist had intended rather than viewing them on a computer. In particular it was very interesting to see Joel Meyerowitz’s work in person, as it fitted in with our current topic of documentary photography.

I also really enjoyed the free time we had in Paris to explore and go sightseeing. It was idyllic to see the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night, and going to see the Louvre and the Arc de Triumph.”

terrorist group Red Army Faction. The paintings were really eerie. The tour guide was extremely good at explaining the story behind these images and discussing Richter’s broad range of painting styles.

By Oliver, student

We also visited the L’Orangerie to see Monet’s water lilies. It was quite a surreal experience as we got to see these gigantic paintings installed in large oval rooms. Our guided tour explained how Monet was a significant artist in the Impressionist movement, and that when we see his work there isn’t much visible detail up close, but from further away you start to notice the details and shifting light.”

“The Paris trip was very exciting as we got to see many famous landmarks such as the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. I particularly enjoyed the Louis Vuitton Foundation’s Gerard Richter exhibition. It was very powerful and there were amazing views from the building. I was particularly interested in Gerard Richter’s Baader Meinhof paintings of the left wing extremist

By Kento, student

It was also very captivating to absorb Monet’s curved waterlily paintings, in the Musee de L’Orangerie. The paintings are displayed in two oval rooms which created an immersive viewing experience while there. 7

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PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE MONTH:

OLIVER’S BREATHTAKING DAY & NIGHT PROJECT Last November, our AS Photographer of the Month accolade went to Oliver, whose Day and Night assignment impressed with both its ambition and technical mastery. During the half-term break, Oliver travelled to Iceland’s iconic Golden Circle, just outside Reykjavík – a region known for its otherworldly winter scenery. Amid icy temperatures, shifting daylight, and dramatic terrain, he explored the landscape with an artistic eye and a clear creative vision. Capturing Iceland by Day In the subdued, misty daylight of Iceland’s winter sun, Oliver produced a series of stunning snowy landscape images. His photographs showcase a refined sensitivity to light, texture, and atmosphere, using the soft natural glow to bring out subtle details in the frost-covered terrain. Each frame demonstrates his growing confidence in composition and a thoughtful approach to framing.

Mastering the Night: Northern Lights in Long Exposure As night fell, Oliver turned his attention skyward. With a tripod and careful manual settings, he captured long-exposure images of the Northern Lights, revealing sweeping ribbons of green dancing across the midnight sky. These photographs highlight not only patience and planning, but also a mature technical understanding – balancing shutter speed, ISO, and stability to achieve exceptional clarity.

Oliver’s work stands out for its combination of technical skill and creative sensitivity. The Day and Night assignment can be challenging, but his portfolio displays a sophisticated grasp of the contrast between natural light conditions and the discipline required to photograph each. Congratulations, Oliver, on a well-deserved award!

‘Oliver’s work stands out for its combination of technical skill and creative sensitivity. The Day and Night assignment can be challenging, but his portfolio displays a sophisticated grasp of the contrast between natural light conditions and the discipline required to photograph each.‘ 8

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our student magazine

FRIENDSHIP THROUGH FOOTBALL On Tuesdays after school, a group of Brampton students go to the football pitches at the local University of Middlesex under the watchful eye of Mike Wheeldon, Head of Arts and Humanities. This is the time for a lively game in a good spirit, healthy exercise, making friends and de-stressing from our academic work. The weekly football game is a great opportunity for everyone to run around, learn new skills or show off existing ones, and interact with others in a friendly, unjudgmental atmosphere. We change up the teams every week to allow everyone to enjoy themselves and have a fair experience. It’s great for promoting community and co-operation – people all play together and mix with others that they may not typically speak to, making it a positive opportunity to make new friends. We have also held two staff vs student matches for our charity, Edukid, which supports students’ education in Uganda. We have raised over £200 in every match we have played. The charity 10

matches are a fun opportunity to support and strengthen the Brampton community and the close, friendly relationships between students and staff as it brings us together in a worthwhile common cause. One of our keenest players, Vaibhav, speaks for us all when he says that football “gives me the opportunity

to socialise and build relationships with my Brampton friends; it also helps to reduce stress from the pressures from school.” We’d all say that football is a highlight of the week and we greatly look forward to these sessions. Go, Team Mike FC! By Maisie, student

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STAFF VS STUDENTS MATCH TO RAISE MONEY FOR EDUKID In one match, students faced their toughest test yet: a charity game against a Brampton staff team to raise money for Edukid, our educational charity partner supporting children living in poverty in Uganda. Despite a concerningly high average age, and a concerningly low average fitness, the staff team managed an impressive 6-5 win (this scoreline was contested by some). Everyone enjoyed the game though, and it raised £242. This charity match was the first of a number of events this year to raise funds for Edukid. The Year 12 students who organised activities as part of their enrichment programme decided to support Edukid’s Bonga Girls Programme in Uganda. The Bonga Girls Programme is an empowerment

programme for out-of-school girls and young women aged 11-19. The girls enrolled have never had access to a formal education system as a result of various cultural and life impediments. This is due to a lack of schools fees, teenage pregnancy, early marriages, and gender inequality. The Bonga Girls Programme creates communities of support and reliable social networks for vulnerable girls and women. The programme focuses on life and business skills, as well as vocational training. Ultimately, with the skills

and knowledge developed through the Bonga Girls Programme, the girls become less reliant on external support, and instead become financially independent and self-reliant. If you would like to add your support by making a donation, this can be done through our Just Giving page here: http://www.justgiving. com/team/brampton-edukidfundraising

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CRACKING CODES AT BLETCHLEY PARK:

MATHS & COMPUTER SCIENCE STUDENTS EXPLORE WWII SECRETS

From touring Alan Turing’s workspace and the famous Bombe machine to trying their hand at deciphering messages with the Lorenz, the trip offered a fascinating glimpse into the hidden world of intelligence during the Second World War. First Year student Maisie shares her reflections on a day that brought history, mathematics, and computing vividly to life… “Bletchley was developed into an intelligence base in 1938 because of its prime location, with close proximity to major cities such as Oxford, Cambridge, and London. By being distanced from the capital, 12

it was a safer location as it wasn’t a potential target. The day commenced with a tour of the park, gaining insight into how enemy messages were intercepted and deciphered during the Second World War. We saw a glimpse into the lives of the 8,995 workers, 75% of whom were women, and their vow of secrecy regarding their work at Bletchley Park. We then went into the huts where they worked to see the conditions and various exhibitions, including the Bombe machine and where Alan Turing worked in Cottage 3. We continued with an insightful workshop into the inner workings of the Lorenz machine. We had the opportunity to crack our own codes, find an encoded message, and learn the relationship between cipher and plain text, and how to use a key to go between them. We then got to

interact with the Lorenz machine and learned about the magnitude of the possible codes it could decipher. We then had lunch, followed by a further exploration of the park to end the day. It was an insightful trip in educating us about the inner workings of decoding during the war, and the parts of the conflict that went more unnoticed but that were crucial to the war effort.” By Maisie, student Photos courtesy of Bletchley Park Trust

On Tuesday 25th November 2025, fifteen Maths and Computer Science students stepped back in time at Bletchley Park, the historic home of Britain’s wartime codebreakers.

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OLYMPIAN ABI OYEPITAN INSPIRES STUDENTS WITH A MESSAGE OF RESILIENCE This year, the College was delighted to welcome two-time Olympian Abi Oyepitan, who spoke to Year 12 students about her remarkable sporting career, the challenges she faced along the way, and the resilience required to succeed both on and off the track. Abi’s visit formed part of the College’s wider careers and enrichment programme, offering students the opportunity to learn from real-life experiences beyond the classroom. Abi represented Great Britain at the Athens Olympic Games in 2004, where she achieved outstanding success as a finalist in the 200 metres and as a semi-finalist in the 100 metres. These achievements established her as one of the country’s leading sprinters at the time. However, soon after the Athens Games, Abi’s career was disrupted by a series of serious shin and achilles injuries. These setbacks not only halted her progress, but also cast significant doubt over whether she would be able to continue competing at an elite level.

During her talk, Abi spoke candidly about the physical and mental challenges she faced during her recovery. She shared the story of her treatment, rehabilitation, and the long periods of uncertainty that tested her confidence and determination. Through focus, perseverance, and a strong support network, Abi was able to overcome these obstacles and reignite her athletics career.

Photo: cdephotos

Her determination paid off when she successfully secured a place on Team GB for the London 2012 Olympic Games. Competing on home soil, Abi reached the semifinals of both the 100 metres and 200 metres, a remarkable achievement following the setbacks she had previously endured. Since retiring from professional athletics, Abi has continued to embrace new challenges. She has gone on to establish her own beauty business and has even sailed around

Australia, demonstrating the same ambition and adaptability that defined her sporting career. Abi’s visit was truly inspiring, and her message about the importance of resilience, persistence, and selfbelief resonated strongly with our students. It was a pleasure to hear her story, and we are grateful to Abi for sharing such valuable insights that will undoubtedly motivate students as they navigate their own academic and career journeys.

‘Abi’s visit was truly inspiring, and her message about the importance of resilience, persistence, and self-belief resonated strongly with our students.’ 13

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A FAMILY AFFAIR:

GENERATIONS OF LEARNING AT BRAMPTON At Brampton College, education isn’t just about the present; it’s about building a legacy of trust, achievement, and lifelong connections. Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of teaching not just students, but entire families across generations. That’s something truly special, and we couldn’t be prouder. Our founder and director, Bernard Canetti, began his journey as a Mathematics teacher. Today, he still meets former students who return – not for themselves, but for their children, nieces, and nephews. These moments remind us that our college is more than a place of learning; it’s a community that lasts a lifetime. At a recent open evening, Bernard bumped into Taz Virdee, a student he taught many years ago who is now a successful GP. Taz was here to introduce her daughter to the college and explore what makes it special. “Speaking to Bernard has brought back so many memories. I know the quality of teaching here, and that’s why I want my daughter to experience the same.” — Taz Virdee, former student & GP And Taz isn’t alone. Bernard also taught Lucy Kaye and her sister, and now Lucy’s daughter is enjoying studying at Brampton. “This college shaped my future. I want my daughter to have the same opportunities and support I had.” — Lucy Kaye, former student The list goes on! Bernard taught Bharat, Bina, and Yogesh Vekaria over twenty years ago, and now their children, Ramani and Krishna, are hoping to join the college. “My brother, sister and I were all students here so it feels like 14

coming home. We’ve always trusted Brampton to bring out the best in us – and now in our children.” — Bharat Vekaria, former student Bernard reflects on these moments with pride: “It’s incredibly rewarding to see former students return with their children. It tells me we’ve made a lasting impact – not just academically, but personally. Education is about trust, and when families come back, it means we’ve earned that trust.” — Bernard Canetti, Founder & Director For us, education is personal. It’s about relationships, trust, and continuity. When families return, it’s because they know we care – and that we deliver. Seeing generations walk through our doors is the greatest compliment we could receive. Here’s to many more years of shaping futures together.

‘ It’s incredibly rewarding to see former students return with their children. It tells me we’ve made a lasting impact – not just academically, but personally.’

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FROM IDEAS TO SALES: OUR YOUNG ENTERPRISE STORY Each academic year, Brampton College introduces a new Young Enterprise team to experience the realities – and the challenges – of running a business, and 2025–2026 was no exception.

allow the sale of certain products – including food, drugs, alcohol, some electronics, and, surprisingly, wax and candles. This restriction eliminated our original idea and felt like a major obstacle.

Guided by our teacher, Niraj, ten student entrepreneurs stepped into fully fledged company roles and experienced the ups and downs of business life first-hand. Together, we created a brand new product – something Brampton College had not seen before.

However, rather than losing motivation, we adapted. By combining elements from several initial ideas, we created something simple, stylish, and original. That’s how our leather snap fastener bracelets became the centrepiece of our business.

It All Started in a Classroom Full of Ideas Our journey began with a classroom overflowing with creativity. Ideas ranged from country flag bracelets and location tags to metal jewellery, love candles with hidden rings, and even a revision app. At the start, we were ten students who barely knew each other, coming together to turn individual ideas into something meaningful. None of us knew what our final product would be, but two ideas quickly stood out.

Becoming a Real Company This was the point where the project truly felt real. We were assigned roles, responsibilities were divided, and we worked together towards our first sale. After much discussion, we chose our company name and brand identity.

One was a student revision app proposed by Abdurrahman, and the other was Yulia’s concept of scented candles that revealed a metal ring once the wax had melted. After careful discussion and a fair vote, Yulia’s idea seemed the most appealing to the team.

We became Originé – a name that reflects premium quality and originality. To match this professional image, our bracelets were made from real leather, with options for engraved patterns and a selection of shiny charms sold separately.

Before we knew it, posters were displayed around the school, and we were standing at sales stalls, selling a product we had created ourselves. Seeing customers respond positively to our work was unforgettable – proof that our effort, ideas, and teamwork resulted in real success. What We Learned This deep dive into company life was truly unique. With Yulia as our Managing Director, and dedicated marketing, sales, and finance teams, everyone played their part as one unified company: Originé. Along the way, friendships formed, lessons were learned, and confidence grew. Some of us even used our skills beyond the project. For example, Abdurrahman continued developing his revision app independently after the programme. But one thing was universal – we all gained valuable experience, enjoyed the journey, and had no regrets about taking part. Would we do it again? Absolutely! Would you join? By Yurii, Student

An Unexpected Challenge – and a Creative Pivot Before production could even begin, we encountered an unexpected setback. We learned that Young Enterprise does not 15

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SUPER CURRICULAR GROUP INSPIRES STUDENTS TO EXPLORE THEIR ACADEMIC PASSIONS As part of our College enrichment programme, students have the opportunity to join the Super Curricular Group – a dedicated space designed to help them deepen their academic interests and build a strong foundation for future university applications. Super curricular activities extend learning beyond the A level syllabus and give students meaningful opportunities to explore their interests in greater depth. They help develop academic curiosity, strengthen subject understanding, and provide valuable evidence of independent study for competitive university applications. These activities may include reading subject specific books and articles, completing online courses, or engaging with research related to a chosen degree. They play a crucial role in personal statements, demonstrating genuine enthusiasm for a subject and a proactive approach to learning. Below are some examples of the super curricular work our students have undertaken this year. Bronwen’s Project “My presentation explored the effects of exercise on ageing, but what really drew me in was the section on how exercise influences certain diseases – especially cancer, which became the main focus of my talk. Through the MOOC (Massive Online Open Course, short online courses) I completed, I discovered some surprising facts about ageing, including that the risk of breast cancer in women increases almost a hundredfold between the ages of 20–30 and age 75. One of my slides was jokingly titled “Become a Pilates Warrior” because

I wanted to highlight why I believe resistance training – which produces the highest rates of hypertrophy – deserves more attention compared to cardio based workouts or Pilates. I looked into sarcopenia (age related muscle loss), which costs the United States around $18 billion a year in healthcare. I was shocked to learn that adults typically lose 30–40% of their muscle mass between ages 50 and 80. Maintaining muscle mass is incredibly important; it’s actually a stronger predictor of mortality than obesity and plays a major role in reducing fall and disability risk. What I really appreciated about this opportunity was having dedicated time to explore online courses and dive deeper into pathology and physiology – subjects I’m genuinely passionate about. It made me feel more confident about my future applications and my personal statement. Overall, the experience has strengthened my conviction to pursue a degree in Medicine after my A levels.”

‘ It made me feel more confident about my future applications and my personal statement’

Arjen’s Project One of our students, Arjen, tells us about his project: “For my super-curricular presentation, I researched Behavioural Neuroscience, focusing on compulsive behaviours such as OCD. I began by explaining why mice are commonly used for research, because they share around 92% of the genes that code for proteins with humans, making them surprisingly more biologically similar than some might expect. I then discussed the ethical standards that researchers follow, like the Three Rs (Replacement, Refinement, and Reduction) to make sure that animals are being treated responsibly. In addition, I showed how thorough research beforehand is crucial for developing and selling new cures/treatments, such as the well-known penicillin.

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‘These experiences play a vital role in personal statements, offering universities clear evidence of genuine subject interest and the ability to pursue independent study.’ The main focus of my presentation was exploring what OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) actually is, why it affects so many people, and challenging common misconceptions about it. OCD is often thought of as a single disorder, but it’s actually a spectrum of disorders (e.g. compulsive gambling and tic disorders) linked by distress and anxiety. These obsessive feelings cause ritualised compulsive behaviours, which can temporarily reduce anxiety but revert to the cycle. On a biological level, OCD is associated with changes in brain circuits involved in fear, decisionmaking, and habit formation, alongside disrupted neurotransmitter signalling. Furthermore, I had covered different treatments for OCD, including Cognitive Behavioural Treatment (exposure to the obsessive compulsive and then trying to resist the urge to react to it) and Pharmacological Treatment (use of SSRIs, the main drugs used to treat OCD but have side effects, e.g. nausea). After explaining the background of OCD, I then displayed the results of treating mice with OCD using Pharmacological Treatment, which could possibly be used for humans with OCD too.

the ethical standards in animal research, reinforced the importance of welfare and responsibility for me which strongly influenced my decision to study Medicine at university. Through this research I have strengthened my understanding of research methodology and ethical handling of animals, which heavily links to Pharmaceutical Research. Even studying how illnesses develop and are treated allowed me to consider pursuing Pharmacology. I also developed a clearer understanding of how certain

mental health conditions exist on a spectrum and why this matters for diagnosis and treatment, relating to Public Health. Overall, my super-curricular research has been really rewarding. It has given me the chance to explore different fields such as Medicine, Public Health, etc. and helped shaped my plans of what to study at university. I am deeply thankful to Lisa (Head of Careers) and to Brampton for giving me this opportunity and support throughout my research.”

‘My super-curricular research has been really rewarding...’

It has helped me in preparation for my choice of what to pursue/study at university greatly. Learning about 17

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FROM HONG KONG STREETS TO LONDON FASHION: MATTHEW’S PHOTOGRAPHY JOURNEY

Matthew joined the college at GCSE and quickly discovered a passion that would shape his creative future. Through A level Photography, he developed a distinctive visual language rooted in documentary photography, youth culture, and fashion. His photographic journey began with street photography, drawing inspiration from the vibrant scenes of 1960s Hong Kong captured by Fan Ho. From there, he explored the raw honesty of 1990s grunge diary photography through the work of Corinne Day, before examining Ryan McGinley’s celebrated portraits of youth, freedom, and identity. These influences helped Matthew develop a personal style that reflects his Hong Kong heritage and his interests in fashion, music and contemporary culture. His work is characterised by striking colour grading, using vivid tones and bold contrasts alongside overexposed black and white imagery, where faces and figures become almost ghostly and abstract. This distinctive approach creates photographs that feel personal, honest, and distinctly his own. 18

“ This autumn, Matthew will continue his studies at London College of Fashion, part of UAL, joining one of the world’s leading environments for fashion photography.”

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This autumn, Matthew will continue his studies at London College of Fashion, part of UAL, joining one of the world’s leading environments for fashion photography. LCF has helped shape a new generation of creative talent, including photographers such as Coco Capitán,

whose work has influenced contemporary fashion and culture, alongside established names such as Rankin. Matthew looks forward to developing his photographic voice within a community of designers, stylists, and photographers at the forefront of the industry.

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STUDENTS INSPIRE FUTURE TEACHERS Brampton Year 12 students recently visited Middlesex University to take part in the ‘Teach the Teacher’ scheme, delivering a presentation to trainee teachers on the importance of embedding climate change across all subjects. Driven by their passion for sustainability, our students worked in a team to create an interactive and thought-provoking presentation, combining research, creativity, and humour to show how small changes can make a meaningful difference. Their session sparked lively discussion and questioning from the trainee teachers. One history trainee raised the challenge of linking climate change to medieval history. The students responded by explaining how wool production was geographically limited, leading to greater reliance on cattle and goats – animals that release methane, a greenhouse gas – demonstrating how environmental themes can be meaningfully connected to historical content. They also suggested creative adaptations in mathematics, such as framing problem-solving

‘ Driven by their passion for sustainability, our students worked in a team to create an interactive and thoughtprovoking presentation, combining research, creativity, and humour.’ questions around climate-change scenarios rather than traditional examples, helping students feel involved in real-world issues. The PGCE coordinator praised the group, stating: “We were truly impressed by the depth of their input, clarity of delivery, and the way they connected with the content. They were all teachers in the making!” Our students also greatly enjoyed the experience. One reflected:. “It was genuinely a valuable experience and a stepping stone for me to become more confident talking to an audience that’s outside of my everyday norm.”

WHAT HAVE BRAMPTON STUDENTS AMBASSADORS BEEN UP TO? It’s been an amazing year here at Brampton, and as Student Ambassadors, we’ve had the privilege of playing a role in making it so special for everyone. As we started planning our ideas and activities for the year, our main aim was to put the students first. The transition from GCSEs to A levels isn’t an easy one, so we wanted to make this as easy as possible for our peers. Subsequently, it was our greatest honour to host an interactive study skills workshop to support lower sixth students ahead of their mock examinations. Other key moments have included supporting efforts to raise funds for the Edukid charity to improve access to education for children in Uganda. It has been deeply rewarding to serve not just our college community, but educational institutions all around the world. We look forward to continuing to keep our eyes and ears open to the needs of those around us, with the amazing support provided by the Brampton community. From coffee mornings, to open evenings, to school celebrations, we’ve conducted a wide range of behind-the-scenes activities, offering help when it’s needed. Thank you everyone, for making Brampton a warming and welcoming community; it’s been amazing getting to know you! Sincerely, Your Student Ambassadors

our student magazine 2026

STUDENTS WELCOME CLIMATE PANEL This year, First Year students took part in a thought-provoking Climate Panel event, giving them the chance to put their questions about the climate crisis directly to a group of visiting experts. The session, organised by Environmental Coordinator Jesse Aberbach, formed part of the Brampton’s wider programme of sustainability education and climate awareness initiatives. Expert voices on the climate emergency The panel brought together specialists working at the forefront of climate action and communication, including: • A representative from ClientEarth, the environmental legal charity known for holding governments and major companies to account over their environmental impact. • A psychotherapist who collaborates with the Centre for Climate Psychology, offering insight into the emotional and psychological dimensions of climate change. • Matt Maran, wildlife photographer and documentary filmmaker, whose recent work includes filming for the latest David Attenborough series. Students submitted questions in advance, and four First Year students – Bronwen, Naomi, Isla, and Juliette – presented them on behalf of the year group. Their questions explored the realities of climate change, the role of activism, the responsibilities of governments and corporations, and how young people can stay hopeful and engaged. Part of a wider college commitment The Climate Panel is one of several initiatives the college has undertaken to deepen understanding of environmental issues and

‘ The Climate Panel is one of several initiatives the college has undertaken to deepen understanding of environmental issues and empower students to take meaningful action.’ empower students to take meaningful action. Over the past year, the college community has: • Supported environmental charities through the College Charitable Trust, contributing to organisations working on conservation, climate action, and sustainability. • Run awareness campaigns led by student groups and the Environmental Committee. • Expanded curriculum links to climate science, environmental ethics, and global citizenship. • Promoted low carbon habits, including waste reduction drives and sustainable travel initiatives. These efforts reflect Brampton’s belief that climate change – though not always visible day to day – is one of the defining challenges of our time. Events like the Climate Panel help students understand the scale of the issue while also highlighting the power of informed, collective action.

A thoughtful and engaged student body The panel praised the students for their insightful and well researched questions, noting the maturity and curiosity they brought to the discussion. Their engagement demonstrates the growing determination among young people to understand the climate crisis and to shape a more sustainable future. 21

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our student magazine

“IF YOU WANT HIGH EXPECTATIONS PAIRED WITH GENUINE SUPPORT AND INDIVIDUAL ATTENTION, YOU’LL FIND IT HERE!” “My name is Arlen. I joined Brampton for the one-year GCSE course and stayed through A levels, and I’m finishing the two year course feeling grateful for how much I’ve grown, achieving A*A*A*A* at A Level and confirming my place to study Computer Science at Imperial College London. I chose Brampton for its small classes and serious results, but also for the way it treats you as an individual. Coming from Hong Kong’s fast-paced, highly competitive system, I wanted a more personal approach where questions are encouraged and gaps don’t get missed. At Brampton, classes rarely exceed ten students, and that intimacy changes the pace and quality of learning – you are seen, heard, and supported. Even the little things matter. Not having a school uniform made the atmosphere feel more relaxed and adult, which helped me focus on the work rather than the rules. The college’s track record for A level success sealed the decision, and it’s a decision I’ve never once regretted. Brampton met, and often exceeded, my expectations. The support is both academic and personal. Teachers tailor explanations, refine exam technique, and still push you 22

to understand the why, not just the what. When you hit a wall, you can book extra tutorials and get targeted help. One moment stands out from Physics. Instead of asking us to memorise that field lines are perpendicular to equipotentials, my teacher showed us why: because no work is done moving along an equipotential, the electric field can have no component along it – so it must be perpendicular. That shift from rote learning to genuine comprehension boosted my grades and, more importantly, my confidence. Compared to my previous school, the culture at Brampton feels different in the best way. The first-name basis removes barriers without lowering expectations. You speak up sooner, the feedback loop is faster, and the environment remains ambitious without being impersonal. The impact goes beyond exams. Brampton helped me think critically and work with resilience, and it also gave me opportunities to grow outside the classroom. Leading a climate change research project with friends was a highlight. We spent weeks analysing data on rising sea levels, debating solutions late into the night – fuelled by questionable cafeteria coffee – and presenting our findings to the

school. Seeing our peers engage with the issue, ask questions, and share ideas reminded me how powerful teamwork can be. Mentoring an AS Further Maths student also taught me patience and the joy of lightbulb moments. Watching them master complex integrals felt as rewarding as solving them myself. These experiences, alongside strong teaching, have set me up well for Imperial. To anyone considering Brampton, I’d say this. If you want high expectations paired with genuine support and individual attention, you’ll find it here. Be ready to engage, ask questions, and use the help on offer: you’ll go far. Choosing Brampton was one of the best decisions I’ve made, and I wouldn’t change it. Finally, a message to my teachers. Thank you for your patience, clarity, and belief. I know I constantly bothered you with questions and loved to challenge your explanations, but I’m deeply grateful for every extra tutorial, every careful proof, and every nudge to think harder. I couldn’t have done this without you, and I hope we get to cross paths again, preferably when I’m not asking for yet another pastpaper walkthrough.” By Arlen, former student

our student magazine 2026

“THE TEACHERS HERE BEYOND EXCEEDED MY EXPECTATIONS.” Annabelle achieved A*AA in Art, Chemistry, and Biology and is off to read Neuroscience at UCL. Here’s what she says about her time at Brampton. “I joined Brampton because I was previously in a French school, but realised I would be better suited to A levels than the French baccalaureate. The teachers here beyond exceeded my expectations. They really worked with me to help me to help achieve my goals. They always encouraged me to pursue my passions no matter what, and to never give up trying. Having come from a fairly large school, Brampton was quite a new experience given how small the class sizes are. I felt like it was so much easier to express myself and my ideas, as well as communicate with my teachers and ask for help. For people considering coming to Brampton, I know from experience that changing school can be a daunting prospect, but as with anything in life, it’s a leap of faith. You just have to trust that the people at Brampton always have your back and that you won’t regret it! I’m honestly so grateful for the time I’ve had at Brampton, and I’m going to miss it so much. I never thought I’d ever say that I would relive my A levels, but I actually would! The friends I’ve made and the things I’ve learnt about my subjects, myself and others has been a life changing experience.” By Annabelle, former student

“I AM NOW DELIGHTED TO BE STARTING MY DREAM COURSE AT NOTTINGHAM VET SCHOOL THIS SEPTEMBER.” “I joined Brampton College after finding my previous school environment challenging, and I quickly discovered that the smaller learning experience suited me much better. The support I received from my subject teachers was invaluable as they took the time to understand my individual difficulties and helped me build both confidence and resilience. I achieved A*AA and an A* in my EPQ# results I wasn’t sure I was capable of achieving before coming to Brampton. I was also given lots of support with my UCAS application and interview preparation, which helped me to secure three offers to study veterinary medicine. I am now delighted to be starting my dream course at Nottingham Vet School this September.

‘ The support I received from my subject teachers was invaluable as they took the time to understand my individual difficulties and helped me build both confidence and resilience.’ The weekly tests, one-to-one feedback, and wellbeing support really helped me through a challenging period in my life and I can confidently say that I have come out of Brampton a completely different, a more confident, and happy person.” By Gracie, former student

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our student magazine

“I’M EXTREMELY HAPPY THAT I WILL BE STARTING MEDICAL SCHOOL THIS SEPTEMBER.” Samarjit achieved AAA in Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics, and a place at the University of Birmingham to study Medicine. Here, he shares his story with us… “Disappointed with my results last year, I still eagerly wanted to study Medicine, and decided to re-sit my A levels. I decided on the retake course at Brampton College due to their weekly tests, fortnightly reports, and one-to-one attention given that was previously not available to me at my old school. Brampton College provided support with my UCAT preparation. A presentation was given to us by representatives from UKCAT which gave me an early insight into UCAT preparation and the different techniques that are useful. This course gave me a good foundation to work from and helped me to achieve a top 8% UCAT score which put me in a competitive place for my application. With the intention of studying Medicine, especially as a re-sit candidate, I was nervous about how my application would be sent off and which universities I could apply to. However, the multiple meetings

I had with John (Principal) and Lisa (Head of Careers) really helped. Together, they gave me the clarity and direction I needed around which universities I should apply to, to strategically increase my chance of getting into medical school. The teachers at Brampton are experts in their respective subjects and know the exam specifications inside out. They were also so enthusiastic and were happy to spend time discussing content with me and other students to ensure a thorough understanding. This specialist guidance also helped me to hone my exam technique and achieve the grades I needed. Small class sizes meant that lessons felt personal and interactive, and I was constantly encouraged to engage with the lessons. Additionally, the advice and preparation, also aided by attending the Medical Forum, immensely helped my whole application, especially with regards to interviews. Every session, John

(who heads up the Medical Forum) would continuously test us on our knowledge of the medical field and ethics and would advise us on how to improve our answers. This practice proved to be immensely helpful, and resulted in me receiving offers from all the universities I was invited to interview at. Brampton’s tutorial system was also very helpful as any time I had a query, it could be answered within the day, reinforcing my subject knowledge. Overall, Brampton College has exceeded my expectations and has helped me to achieve my dream. The incredible support of my teachers and lots of hard work has paid off and I’m extremely happy that I will be starting medical school this September. I am so grateful to John, all my subject teachers as well as the admin staff for all the support and guidance – thank you all so much!!” By Samarjit, former student

our student magazine 2026

SECOND YEAR STUDENT, DARSHAN, SHARES HIS STORY ABOUT HIS ENTRY TO THE LONDON MARATHON AND HIS REASONS FOR RUNNING IT. Now, nine years later, I decided to take on the 2026 London Marathon in support of Make-A-Wish. My goal was to raise £25,000, enough to fund around ten wishes for children living with life-threatening illnesses. Each wish represents more than a moment of joy, it’s a spark of hope, a reminder that life can still hold light even in the darkest circumstances.

“When I was nine years old, I was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Overnight, my life became hospitals, treatment, and uncertainty. Everything I knew, school, friends, routine, was replaced by a fight simply to stay alive. Those years tested me in every way imaginable, but they also taught me what resilience really means.

My journey with Make-A-Wish didn’t end with my wish, it inspired me to give back. I now serve as a member of STARboard, the charity’s youth advisory board, helping to shape its work and ensure that young people’s voices are heard at every level. Being part of STARboard has shown me just how much impact a single wish can have, not only on the child, but on their family and entire community.

Balancing A level studies with marathon training was a challenge, but every step reminded me why I was doing this. I was running for the children who are still in hospital beds, for the families holding onto hope, and for the organisation that helped me believe in a future again. For me, the marathon wasn’t just about distance, it was about giving back to the charity that helped me rebuild my life, one step at a time.” At the time of print, Darshan has raised over £8,000. If you would like to donate to this amazing cause, please visit the Make A Wish website: https://2026tcslondonmarathon. enthuse.com/pf/darshan-mcgregor By Darshan, student

After I recovered, Make-A-Wish UK reached out and offered me something extraordinary, the chance to have a wish. I asked for something that would last: a home gym. I wanted to rebuild my strength, to feel capable again after years when my body had been through so much. That wish changed everything. It gave me purpose, discipline, and a space where recovery could truly begin.

‘Overnight, my life became hospitals, treatment, and uncertainty. Everything I knew, school, friends,

routine, was replaced by a fight simply to stay alive.’

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our student magazine

A NIGHT TO REMEMBER: BRAMPTON ALUMNI RETURN FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE CELEBRATION During the last week of term, we held an alumni event which brought together over 70 graduates from the last five years, and the energy was off the charts. From the moment the doors opened, Brampton was buzzing — drinks flowing, music drifting through the room, and conversations sparking instantly as familiar faces reunited. Set against the backdrop of our current students’ colourful and dynamic A level Art and Photography work, the space felt alive with creativity, reminding everyone of the talent that continues to thrive at our College. Many alumni paused to admire the pieces, sparking conversations about their own time in the studio and the creative journeys they’ve taken since. A standout music performance from one of our talented students added to the sense of celebration. Everywhere you looked, groups of alumni gathered to swap stories, share updates, and relive memories from their time at our College. The pride in the room was unmistakable. 26

The emotional highlight of the evening came when John, Principal, delivered a heartfelt and deeply moving speech. He reflected on the journeys our alumni have taken, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the incredible achievements they’ve made since leaving Brampton. His words resonated with everyone present. “I do believe people are capable of so much more than they think they are. The thing they’re usually missing is belief. You all standing here in front of me reminds me of

that. You all had fantastic teaching but the key thing so many of you had to develop was a belief that you could do it. And look at you now – you did it! Thank you for coming to see us, thank you for believing, thank you for inspiring me and for restoring my faith in the future.” The night was a celebration of connection, growth, and the lasting bond our alumni share with Brampton. It was truly special to welcome everyone back and hear the remarkable stories of what they’ve gone on to accomplish.

our student magazine 2026

TEACHER HOTSEAT Shining the Spotlight on Sam Kaltsa 1. Describe yourself in 3 words Disciplined, bossy, and caring. (We can confirm these are all true – and yes, the “bossy” is in the best possible way.) 2. Tell us about your role at Brampton and what you enjoy most about it Sam supports students with everything non academic – though as she explains, academic and personal challenges often overlap. Working closely with teachers and the learning support team, she helps students navigate whatever’s happening behind the scenes. Her favourite part? Working directly with students. “It can be hard seeing students struggle, but being able to support them and have a positive impact in their lives is incredibly rewarding.” We’re back this year with another instalment of Teacher Hotseat, where we spotlight the brilliant people who make Brampton College such a special place. We’ve decided to turn up the heat on someone truly extraordinary: Sam Kaltsa – Student Welfare Officer, Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead, and Joint Acting Head of Second Year A level. Sam is a pillar of support, a voice of reason, and a reassuring presence for so many students and staff. Get to know her a little better as she takes on the Hotseat…

‘Staff at Brampton genuinely care about the students. They’ll go out of their way to help whenever needed.’

3. What’s special about Brampton? According to Sam, it’s simple: the people. “Staff at Brampton genuinely care about the students. They’ll go out of their way to help whenever needed. I also love that it feels fairly casual, yet students and staff still respect each other – and students know they need to work hard.”

6. What’s your party trick? An incredible memory for birthdays – seriously, test her. 7. If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Idris Elba. Because “he’s charming.” Enough said. 8. If you were the richest person in the world for a day, how would you spend it? “Booking as many holidays as possible – I love travelling.” (Sam, please take us with you.) 9. What book or movie would you recommend right now? Home Alone, her all time favourite. A timeless classic – and we approve. 10. What’s your favourite joke? “Most of my jokes are still waiting for HR approval.” (We’d like to see the rejected list.) 11. What’s on your bucket list? Travelling the world.

4. What have you learned from the students here? “If you put your mind to it, you can achieve anything. Take advantage of all the support around you and don’t close yourself off. Asking for help when you need it can make such a big difference!”

Big dream – fully achievable.

5. Tell us something we’d be surprised to learn about you Sam loves trap music.

Sam, thank you for all the warmth, wisdom, and unwavering care you bring to Brampton every single day. We’re so lucky to have you – both in the Hotseat and far beyond it.

(We’re waiting for her DJ set at the next staff social.)

12. Best piece of advice you’ve ever received? “Don’t rely on motivation – it comes and goes. Rely on discipline; it can be there when motivation isn’t.”

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our student magazine

CREATIVE WRITING Creative writing is an invaluable skill – it gives you the capacity to express yourself when you can’t figure out how to say the words out loud. Something about putting your thoughts to paper is so freeing and refreshing – it’s a shame we don’t get to do it so often. If it’s been a while since you’ve picked up a pen, this is a great opportunity for you to give creating writing another chance, without the pressure of it being graded. We’ve suggested some prompts below to give you a starting point, but feel free to write whatever takes your fancy. We’ve taken a brave step and shared our writing with you as inspiration to get the ball rolling. Happy writing everyone, and don’t be afraid to share what you write with us! Scent + Sky: Nothing – that’s what the sky’s actual scent is, but that’s not what we smell. We smell every

s A

Onomatopoeia + Coffee: Droplets of the murky brown beverage dripped over the edge of the ivory mug, each one splashing into the pool below.

colour of the rainbow – the fruitflavoured red, the overjoyful yellow, the melancholic and minty green, the positive yet poisonous blue – all blended together, so it smells of everything with hints of sugar and traces of salt. Alliteration + Breakfast: Fractions of fresh fruit-filled battered brass bowls alongside parts of perfectly flipped pancakes, all of which were meant to fuel our meticulously planned morning and be a part of the most important meal of the day.

Sight + Fear: Swiftly, the gemstudded ring was spun around his thumb; its repetitive nature, intended to calm his nerves, only quickened the beating of his heart, so his chest rose and fell visibly with each sharp inhale and shaky release. Violently, he rubbed the burning red imprint that remained – the ghost of his panic. Juxtaposition + Excitement: Moments are to be treated with precaution and care, stifled elation, indifferent enthusiasm, and lazy anticipation because then there is no plunge into disappointment and despair. By your Student Ambassadors

‘ If it’s been a while since you’ve picked up a pen, this is a great opportunity for you to give creating writing another chance, without the pressure of it being graded.’

our student magazine 2026

202O6 H TOS IN P H

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our student magazine

our student magazine 2026

Lodge House, Lodge Road, Hendon, London NW4 4DQ Tel: 020 8203 5025 bramptoncollege.com Admissions: Pam Glenville pam@bramptoncollege.com

Painting by Liorah

Design & print by Datum | datum.agency