When Molly joined Oakham in Form 1, she had no idea that a love of creativity would one day lead her towards a future in product design. Seven years later, she leaves Oakham having completed the IB Diploma, secured an offer to study Product Design at the University of Edinburgh, and developed the confidence to take her own path through a gap year before university.
From design projects and international trips to hockey, choir and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Molly’s Oakham experience reflects the power of a broad education and the freedom to discover talents and interests along the way.
Choosing the IB to Keep Doors Open
For Molly, selecting the IB Diploma was driven by a desire to continue exploring a wide range of subjects rather than narrowing her options too early.
“I wasn’t entirely sure what I wanted to do after school, so I found it difficult thinking about choosing just a few A-levels. I enjoyed lots of different subjects at GCSE and wanted to keep that variety.”
The IB allowed Molly to combine subjects that reflected a range of interests, studying French, Business Management and Design Technology at Higher Level alongside English, Mathematics and Environmental Systems and Societies at Standard Level.
Molly with her IB final product design
Looking back, she believes the decision was absolutely the right one.
“If I was choosing all over again, I would definitely do the IB again.”
While she describes the programme as challenging, she also credits it with helping her develop resilience, organisation and confidence.
“There were definitely difficult times, but I’ve learned so much and I really enjoyed it overall. In the future I’ll look back and be really thankful that I proved to myself that I could do it.”
Discovering a Passion for Design
Although Molly has always considered herself creative, it was through Design Technology at Oakham that she discovered a genuine passion for design and began to see it as a potential career.
“I’ve always been really creative, but especially in Sixth Form, having DT as one of my main focuses was really nice.”
The department quickly became one of her favourite places in School.
“I really enjoyed DT at School. It’s been one of my favourite places. Everyone there is so lovely and through coursework we spent so much time there, after school, at weekends and after sport. It was worth it in the end.”
Molly with her GCSE final product design
Her enthusiasm and talent were recognised when she won Oakham’s internal design competition run in partnership with internationally renowned product design company Black + Blum.
Experiences such as these helped shape Molly’s future ambitions and gave her a clearer understanding of the opportunities available within the design industry.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
One of the defining aspects of Molly’s Oakham journey has been the opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world experiences.
Recently, she completed work experience with Linney, a leading creative production agency that works with major brands including Boots, McDonald’s and Superdrug.
The placement gave her valuable insight into the many career pathways available within design.
“It was really interesting seeing projects from start to finish and understanding how different departments work together.”
The experience also reinforced one of the lessons she has learned through Design Technology at Oakham: that design is a broad and versatile discipline.
“There are so many different routes you can follow. Once you’ve got a basic knowledge and a love for it, there are lots of possibilities.”
A Gap Year with Purpose
Although Molly holds an offer to study Product Design at the University of Edinburgh, she has chosen to spend the next year travelling, gaining additional work experience and exploring her options before beginning the next stage of her education.
For her, this decision reflects the confidence Oakham has helped develop over the years: the confidence to make thoughtful choices and follow a path that feels right.
“I want to take my time and make sure it’s the right thing for me.”
She is also keen to continue exploring alternative pathways, including degree apprenticeships, and has worked closely with Oakham’s Degree Apprenticeships Coordinator, Mrs Atkinson, to better understand all the options available.
Making the Most of Every Opportunity
Beyond academic study, Molly embraced a huge range of opportunities during her time at Oakham.
Sport played a significant role, particularly hockey. She was part of the Oakham U16 team that reached the National Final at Lee Valley and later served as Second Team Captain in her final year.
Music also became an unexpectedly important part of her Oakham experience. What began as a weekly commitment in Form 1 grew into a source of friendship and community throughout her seven years at the School.
Choir Dinner 2026
By the time Molly sang in the Leavers’ Concert on her final day of school, performing for the final time in Chapel alongside fellow Seventh Formers, the moment became unexpectedly emotional.
“We realised it was the last time we were all going to sing together. It was quite emotional.”
From Duke of Edinburgh to New Discoveries
Molly’s CAS programme reflected the breadth of her interests. Through choir, sport, volunteering and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, she embraced opportunities that challenged her in new ways.
Her Gold Duke of Edinburgh expedition in the Lake District stands out as one of her favourite memories of Oakham.
Despite days of heavy rain, she loved every minute.
Gold DofE Walking Expedition, May 2025
“It was so enjoyable. Even in the rain.”
In fact, the experience has inspired plans for her gap year, where hiking, camping and outdoor adventures feature high on her list.
Gold DofE Walking Expedition, May 2025
The expedition perfectly captures an important element of an Oakham education: discovering strengths and passions you never expected to find.
A School Full of Possibilities
Reflecting on her seven years at Oakham, Molly believes the greatest benefit has been the sheer range of opportunities available.
“There are so many things I’ve done through school that I would never have thought I would do.” One example was learning to sail during Sixth Form, simply because the opportunity was there. “I just decided I was going to learn to sail. It was so much fun.”
Taking part in the annual Summer Dance Showcase
For Molly, that willingness to try new things has become one of the defining characteristics of her Oakham journey. “There’s something for everyone, and I’ve really, really enjoyed my time here.”
As she prepares for a year of travel, work experience and new adventures before beginning the next chapter, Molly leaves Oakham with far more than academic qualifications. She leaves with a broad range of experiences, lasting friendships, confidence in her abilities and a clearer sense of who she is and where she wants to go.
At the Leavers’ Ball, June 2026
Her story is a powerful example of how an Oakham education enables students to shape their own path, discover new passions and develop the skills to thrive in whatever future they choose.
To find out how Oakham helps every student shape their own journey through a breadth of opportunities both inside and outside the classroom, discover more about co-curricular life at Oakham.
