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Heads of School 2023-2024

Ali & Riana

Ali

What A levels are you studying?

I am studying Biology, Chemistry & Maths at A-Level. I have always been intrigued by the intricacies of the different scientific fields. Broadening my understanding through my studies helps me to better appreciate the impact of science on the wider world! I am also doing an EPQ analysing different methods used to treat focal cortical dysplasia – a neurological condition that can cause severe epilepsy-related seizures, particularly in children.

What do you like doing outside of your studies?

Outside of my studies, I enjoy playing and coaching badminton. I am an avid debater, and love being able to discuss a range of diverse topics - from complex moral and philosophical questions, to the never-ending arguments surrounding the effectiveness of homework. I also spend time working as an executive of a non-profit STEM magazine, writing and playing chess!

What do you most appreciate about Leicester Grammar School?

There is so much to appreciate at LGS, from the plethora of activities to get involved in, to our incredibly supportive and united school community. I have really valued being able to give back to the community as a member of the Diversity & Inclusion Group, Change Team and Charity Committee. I admire the efforts of teachers and staff in nurturing students as people, encouraging us to meet new challenges and fostering a sense of togetherness. LGS has also allowed me to develop valuable personal skills through opportunities such as Senior Debating, Gold DofE and as a Student Support Mentor, providing me with valuable memories that I know I will cherish.

How would you like to make our community even better for our pupils next year?

I would like to expand some of the community and volunteering opportunities to pupils lower down the school, as well as develop skills outside of traditional lessons through different enrichment activities. Encouraging more student-led initiatives, especially those which bring interaction between students from across the school, will strengthen our school’s community spirit and give everyone the opportunity to develop by learning from each other.

What you are planning to do when you leave LGS?

After leaving LGS, I plan on studying medicine at university. As well as opening avenues of life-long learning, studying medicine would allow me to pursue my passion and make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. I also hope to combine this dream with medical research, aiming to unravel some of the many mysteries that our bodies hold.

Riana

What A levels are you studying?

I am studying biology, chemistry, and philosophy. I love the variety within my combination of subjects, and I get the best of both worlds – sciences and humanities!

What do you like doing outside of your studies?

Outside of my studies, I love playing my musical instruments: piano, violin, and trombone, in various ensembles, bands and orchestras, as well as singing. I have also enjoyed taking part in many school productions during my time at LGS, especially since musical theatre has long been a passion of mine! I have dabbled in many sports whilst here, but hockey is one which definitely stands out as my favourite!

What do you most appreciate about Leicester Grammar School?

There are so many parts of LGS which I appreciate – from the brilliantly diverse community to the exceptionally talented teachers. I have been able to pursue my passions for music, sport and drama - engaging with so many co-curricular opportunities has enabled me to engage with fellow pupils of different year groups and make long-lasting friendships. LGS has provided me with opportunities I wouldn’t have otherwise had, for example being a student support mentor, which have meant I have been able to develop so many valuable skills, that stand me in good stead for life beyond LGS.

How would you like to make our community even better for our pupils next year?

I would like to encourage pupils to engage in more co-curricular activities, as I believe it is one of the best ways for us to step out of our comfort zone, learn new, valuable skills, and interact with pupils from different year groups. With the wide variety of activities that we are lucky enough to have on offer at LGS, there really is something for everyone, and I truly believe seizing every opportunity that we are lucky enough to get is vital to improving our time at school! These activities benefit us all in so many ways – we can contribute to the school community in a meaningful way, whilst learning and improving our well-being all at the same time. Engaging with co-curricular activities on offer is what makes pupils at our school such well-rounded individuals, and increasing participation would make LGS an even more positive place to be. We all have a great deal we can learn from each other, so the bonds made during these activities are exceptionally important.

What you are planning to do when you leave LGS?

When I leave LGS, I am planning to study medicine – it has long been a dream of mine, and the medical field is such an ever-changing, undeniably challenging yet rewarding career path that I hope I am lucky enough to go down!