Sophie F

I have been at Millfield since joining Millfield Prep in Year 4, excited for the opportunities I would have. Straight away I joined lots of clubs and became fully involved in the life of the school, experiencing plenty of sports and co-curricular activities. As well as being able to play netball, hockey and cricket, I was given the chance to try fencing, learn the ukulele and join a choir.

I found the transition to Millfield from Millfield Prep easy as we were well supported by staff in Ivythorn, the Year 9 day house. I was fortunate to be awarded scholarships in both dance and drama as well as an academic scholarship. This has meant that I have a bespoke programme of dance classes around my normal timetable, allowing me to dance every day.

"This is my favourite thing about Millfield – spending time doing what I love and being encouraged and supported to do that by my teachers."

I originally trained as a ballroom and classical dancer, but the opportunities at Millfield have meant I have been able to take up ballet, contemporary and jazz, as well as work towards Rambert exams. There really is a class for everyone and plenty of opportunities to perform. I successfully auditioned for a part in The Nutcracker and had an amazing time working with my teachers and other dancers to put together a fantastic show. It was daunting at first dancing with older students, but the dance department is so welcoming and through the rehearsals and classes I have made new friends. Mrs Fox, the Director of Dance and Drama, is always available and so encouraging and supportive of me. I am excited to continue to have opportunities to dance in the coming years.

The Drama Department run lots of classes that have enabled me to further develop my performance skills and continue with my LAMDA exams. I took part in the Year 9 and 10 performance of Brainstorm which was a collaborative piece, and later this year I will be performing in the Year 9 play Wendy and Peter Pan. I love performing and I am excited for the opportunities ahead in the coming years. I intend to take both dance and drama at GCSE.

As well as being being busy with my dance and drama, I have a full timetable of academic lessons and opportunities to take part in extra activities to complement my studies. My academic scholarship has meant I am part of the ‘curiosity group’, where we regularly meet with our mentor to discuss learning beyond the curriculum. I have attended Brilliance Breakfasts and taken part in competitions such as the Mathematical Olympiad for Girls.

"The school has enabled me to really flourish and discover my talents. I have made some lovely friends, and spend my days doing what I love."

We are kept very busy but the time flies and we achieve so much. I feel grateful and lucky that I have been given the opportunity to attend Millfield, and am very appreciative of the experience it is giving me.