Meet our students

Raphaela Altenbernd
Nationality: German
Course: International Baccalaureate
What is good about the course?
It is a very good course because of its facilities of different subjects and that it includes the subjects, Creativity, Action, Service (CAS) and Theory of Knoweldge (TOK). Of course, IB is very challenging, but I think it supports your personality, especially by the subject CAS. Moreover, you meet so many different people from different countries and also, the subject TOK lets you think about very interesting topics, which are important for your daily life. All in all, I can say that IB is a very good programme and that it prepares me very well for my future.
Why did you choose this course?
I chose this course because I think it is a much better graduation than the German- Abitur and it opens much more doors to get a place in a good University all over the world. Besides, I think it is very good when you prove that you can speak two different languages fluently, which is proven with a good final certificate of the IB course. Also, I think it is a good choice because when you are not so sure what you want to do in your future, you still have all the opportunities to go to University to study what you would like to study.
What will you do next?
I intend to go to University to study Business Law. Admittedly, I am not sure if I want to stay here in the UK or whether I want to study in the USA or if I want to go back to Germany.
What advice would you give other students who are thinking of coming to the UK to study?
You should always be open to meet new people, whether they are from your home country or from other countries. Also, you should really try to integrate yourself into English society, because then it will be much easier for you to learn English.

Ya Ni Wang
Nationality: Chinese
Course: University Foundation
Why this course? "I like Business and I want to work in HSBC or a big international company in the future. Also, I’m interested in Accounting - it helps me to manage my money and even how to balance my time."
What will you do next? I’m going to University in the UK and after that I may stay in the UK for a few years and have some work experience. Then, I’ll return to my country and work in Hong Kong. Finally, I’ll go back to my city - Beijing and work in an international company which I like most. That’s just my plan, who knows what is going to happen.
What advice would you give other students who are thinking of coming to the UK to study?
1) Do not think studying in the UK is an easy thing. You have to learn a lot by yourself, in your free time.
2) Dare to speak English so that you can make a big improvement. Nobody will laugh at your mistakes.
3) Make friends - as many as possible, so that you won’t feel lonely. That’s really important.
4) Before you come, you should learn some differences between your home and the UK.

Benjamin Weisenburger
Nationality: German
Course: International Baccalaureate
What is good about this course? "The IB Course is good because it is challenging, offers a great multicultural experience and is time intensive."
Why did you choose this course? 
"Because I wanted to try something different and challenging. After I had received training as a paramedic, I wanted to receive a Higher Education, be able to study at the University. Therefore I have found this course the most suitable for my age and purpose."
What will you do next? 
"I intend to return to Germany to study at the Police Academy."
What advice would you give other students who are thinking of coming to the UK to study?
"It is different and challenging but possible!"

Wen Jing
Nationality: Chinese
Course: Foundation
Where is she now? Wen gained a distinction in Electronic Engineering at the University of York, then moved into Accountancy. Now at Deloitte’s while undertaking her professional examinations, her next step is a DPhil in Accountancy or becoming a practising Chartered Accountant.

Masahiko Oshima
Nationality: Japanese
Course: Foundation
Where is he now? Masahiko achieved an honours degree in journalism at the University of Cardiff before returning to his home in Okinawa. He is now working in Tokyo for a leading Public Relations firm.

Kerstin Strothmann
Nationality: German
Course: A-levels
Where is she now? Kerstin specialised in Management with Japanese at Royal Holloway, University of London, achieving a 2:1. She currently has a role as a commercial analyst with BP Shipping and is hoping to get onto the Eurograduate Scheme which will put her on a fast track to management.

Aizhan Imangaliyeva
Nationality: Kazakh
Course: A levels
Achievements: Principal’s Prize for outstanding achievement
Where is she now? York University, studying Economics BSc

Philip Hoffmann
Nationality: German 
Course: A-levels
Where is he now? After graduating from CATS Cambridge, Philip secured a place to study Accountancy at Southampton Solent University, the top-ranked destination for his specialism. Philip's aim is to work in the international business world, and he has a particular interest in the Far East.