When Fin joined Oakham in Lower 1, he was already curious about how things worked. Eight years later, that curiosity has developed into a passion for Physics that will take him to the University of York, where he plans to study an integrated Master’s degree in Physics.
Alongside his academic success, Fin leaves Oakham having immersed himself in music, sport, House life, leadership opportunities and engineering projects, embracing the broad range of experiences that have shaped his time at School.
Discovering a Love of Science
For Fin, a fascination with science began almost as soon as he arrived at Oakham. “I really liked science from the very start. I had Dr Nairn. I remember her being really fun. She really made me enjoy science.”
As the sciences became separate subjects in Middle School, Physics quickly emerged as his favourite. “When they split science up into Biology, Chemistry and Physics, Physics was my favourite. I had some brilliant teachers and their lessons were always interesting and enjoyable.”
Strong GCSE results confirmed what he already suspected. “I got a 9 in Physics GCSE and that cemented that I was pretty good at it.”
He went on to study Physics, Mathematics and Chemistry at A-level, excelling in all three subjects. “In Form 6 and Form 7 I won Gold in the Chemistry Olympiad, in Form 6 I was the only student in the School to do so.”
He is now preparing to continue his studies in Physics at university. “I’ve applied for the integrated Master’s and I’m hoping to see it all the way through. The research opportunities really appeal to me.”
Learning Beyond the Classroom
While Physics became his academic focus, some of Fin’s most rewarding experiences came through opportunities beyond the curriculum.
In Form 6 he chose to pursue the Industrial Cadets Gold Award, working as part of a team alongside local engineering company Meccalte to solve a real-world manufacturing challenge.
“We were given a genuine problem to solve and had to come up with a cost-effective solution before presenting it to engineers and judges.”
The project took Fin and his teammates to De Montfort University and the University of Birmingham, where they presented their work alongside students from across the country.
“It was really interesting because it felt like doing real engineering and working on something that could actually be implemented.” When Fin did work experience at Photocentric in Peterborough, he gained more than just an overview of the design and manufacture of LCD 3D printers. The placement provided valuable first-hand experience of how engineering principles are applied in a real-world setting, giving him a deeper understanding of the industry and the impact engineers can have on innovation and product development.
Music as a Constant Companion
Throughout his time at Oakham, music provided an important balance to academic life. A pianist for many years, Fin took a refreshingly independent approach to learning.
“I’d go online, find something I wanted to play and bring it in. My piano teacher, Mr Vidovic, would just say, ‘Brilliant, let’s work on that.'”
Music also became an important way to relax during busy periods. “During exams I’d revise for an hour, then go and play the piano for a bit. It really helped.”
From choir performances to duet competitions and his final Leavers’ Concert appearance, music remained a consistent and valued part of his Oakham experience.
Trying New Things
One of Fin’s strongest memories of Oakham is the sheer variety of opportunities available to students. “Oakham introduced me to a lot of different sports.”
Over the years he tried rugby, hockey, swimming, athletics and shooting, enjoying the chance to explore activities he might never otherwise have discovered. “I was quite good at shooting. I still keep some of the targets.”
While he never pursued sport at the highest level, he appreciated the freedom to experience a wide range of activities and find enjoyment in each of them. “I was more someone who liked putting my finger into lots of different things.”
That willingness to try new experiences became a defining feature of his time at School.
The Importance of House Life
Ask Fin what stands out most about his early years at Oakham and he quickly talks about House life.
Having moved through Peterborough House, Wharflands and finally School House, he credits the House system with helping him build friendships and independence.
Whether staying overnight after School events, attending House activities or simply enjoying everyday moments together, those friendships became one of the most valuable aspects of his Oakham journey.
Memories That Will Last a Lifetime
Reflecting on eight years at Oakham, Fin’s memories range from Lower School adventures to Sixth Form celebrations.
He recalls trips to Lea Green and the National Coal Mining Museum during Lower 1, Burns Night in Form 7, Scholars’ Dinners and networking events, all of which contributed to an experience that felt both varied and distinctive.
“Big Band was probably my favourite. Everywhere you looked there was live music and so much talent. Seeing all your friends involved made it a really special evening.”
For Fin, these moments combined the things he valued most about Oakham: community, friendship and shared experiences.
Finding What Works for You
Having successfully navigated A-level study, Fin’s advice to younger students is simple.
“Find what revision works for you.”
After discovering that traditional revision techniques were not particularly effective for him, he developed methods that suited his own learning style, relying heavily on visual memory, colour-coding, mind maps and past paper practice. “I think you need to find what is specifically tailored to how you think.”
His other piece of advice is equally straightforward.
“Do your work as soon as you’re set it.”
As a self-confessed procrastinator, Fin learned that organisation and consistency make all the difference.
Feeling Recognised
When asked what he will remember most about Oakham, Fin returns to a theme that runs throughout his story.
Recognition.
As a young student, receiving an Academic Exhibition helped him realise that his abilities had been noticed and valued.
That feeling continued throughout his time at School, whether through prizes, academic encouragement or opportunities to pursue his interests.
“When you win a prize on Prize Day, it fills you with such pride.”
For Fin, Oakham has been a place where individual strengths are recognised and celebrated.
“They’ll find something you’re good at and encourage you to develop it.”
As he prepares to begin the next chapter at the University of York, Fin leaves Oakham with outstanding academic achievements, lifelong friendships and a clear sense of the path he wants to follow.
His story demonstrates how an Oakham education enables pupils to explore widely, discover their passions and develop the confidence to pursue them.
Fin’s story is just one example of how an Oakham education can help pupils discover their passions and develop the confidence to pursue them.
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