DOWNEND SCHOOL - A Technology College

Frank Marimo

"My name is Frank Marimo and I’am studying Engineering, Maths, Product Design and Geography at AS level. I have found Post 16 most enjoyable and easy to get used to. The atmosphere within Post 16 has been fabulous because everyone is welcoming and lovely to work with. I like the independent studying because it allows me to learn the way that suited me with teachers available for support. This experience has taught me to organise my time efficiently so that my responsibilities as Head Boy don’t interferer with my studying. This has also prepared me for life in university where I intend to study engineering at UWE, my ambition is to work in the aeronautical industry. I have particularly enjoyed doing research in aircraft safety for my EPQ and have spent time volunteering in a hospice shop as I want to gain the AQA Baccalaureate Award "

Charlotte Wright

"My name is Charlotte Wright. I am currently studying English Language, History, Textiles, and Drama. I enjoy all of my subjects and get on really well with staff as the teacher, student bond is really strong. I play in the Girls Football Team which has a squad of 15 girls; we all enjoy the training and the winning! I will be going to university to study drama as acting is my passion and I hope to be an actress in the future or something to do with the theatre "

Martina ( Italian )

At Downend we have international students joining us for a year to improve their language skill, sit exams and immerse themselves in the culture at Downend. Students come from EU and non-EU countries and add a further dimension to our students’ experience. Martina from Italy recounts her experience with us:

"I joined the English Language, English Literature and Maths classes. The teachers and the students greeted me warmly and helped me to fit in as I found that the lessons were very different from what I was used to. The best experience for me came when the school offered a Chinese Mandarin course. We learnt the basis of the language and the culture learning to paint, playing games and cooking. It was all great fun! The school offers a range of opportunities and I was more than happy to join the Senior Choir. I don’t think that in my school in Italy I would ever see a teacher singing! Here however, there seems to be a much closer relationship between teachers and students and that makes the school a relaxed and friendly place to be, it is perfect for studying. I will take home with me some really nice memories of being at Downend School"