Three former Highgate pupils, also known as Old Cholmeleians, were invited to meet current Sixth Form bursary holders in an informal session focused on their own life experiences beyond school.
Nell, Josh and Yoel all received a Highgate bursary and spoke openly about their own journeys, including unexpected turns, gap years, university life, and early careers. The session began with each graduate sharing their own story, followed by practical tips for navigating decisions about university and careers. Pupils had the opportunity to ask questions before moving into informal conversations, allowing everyone to talk more personally and explore individual interests.
Nell Tindale graduated from Highgate in 2016 and spoke about how she had to rethink her plans after changing her university choice, taking a gap year, studying Philosophy at Edinburgh, and working in employment law. Her advice focused on keeping an open mind, reading widely, and not putting too much pressure on yourself.
Joshua Massey Dearman completed his A levels last year and is now studying science at UCL. He shared how embracing opportunities at school led him to enter a Harvard Competition and opened doors to internships. He encouraged pupils to get involved in things even if they feel unfamiliar and to make the most of university life beyond academia.
Yoel Mulugheta left the school in 2020 and reflected on his university studies at Cambridge, using drama skills in video assessments, and his role in consultancy. He emphasised playing to your strengths and being honest about personal motivations.
The Sixth Formers engaged thoughtfully throughout, asking perceptive questions and continuing conversations. One of the pupils commented: “It was a great opportunity to discuss future steps with previous pupils of a similar background. I now feel more confident about some of my decisions regarding the future.”
Alison Brunner, Head of Bursaries at Highgate added: “We are so grateful to Nell, Josh and Yoel for sharing their experiences since leaving Highgate. At such a pivotal stage towards the end of their sixth form studies, it’s valuable for our current bursary students to see former bursary recipients pursuing such interesting pathways and to hear first-hand how they navigated their progress. The honesty and warmth of our visitors immediately put pupils at ease, creating a space where meaningful questions could be asked.”
Highgate offers bursary places to eligible pupils applying at 7+, 11+ and 16+. Bursaries are awarded via a financial means-tested application, with most successful pupils receiving up to 100% of their fees paid throughout their time at the school.
Find out more about our fee assisted bursaries here.
