Grace (Class of 2026) is celebrating an outstanding set of S6 results, achieving Grade As in Advanced Higher Biology, Chemistry, Latin and Mathematics. Her exceptional academic achievement was further recognised with the Francis Morrison Prize for 1st in Advanced Higher Biology, the George F Sandison Prize for Mathematics and the prestigious title of S6 Science Dux.

Grace will now take the next step in her academic journey, beginning Medicine at the University of Edinburgh in September.

Reflecting on her results, Grace said that her biggest impact has been the confidence she has gained from knowing that she can achieve her goals when determined. Her S6 experience has also helped her develop valuable skills including organisation, discipline and essay writing, which she will carry forward into her medical studies.

Taking four Advanced Highers while simultaneously applying to study medicine was a significant challenge. Grace often spent lunch breaks and non-contact periods working in classrooms or the library on projects and dissertations, carefully balancing her academic workload with her wider school commitments.

“It was definitely stressful, especially at the same time as applying for medical school,” Grace explained. She found that making time for breaks, talking to friends and stepping away from academic pressures helped her maintain balance and ultimately achieve the results she had worked towards.

Grace has also made a significant contribution to school life beyond her own studies. As MedSoc Leader, she delivered presentations, talks and information sessions to around 15 to 20 S4 and S5 pupils each week. The role helped her develop her confidence in public speaking, communication and the ability to create engaging presentations under time pressure.

She also took on the role of Maths Classroom Assistant, supporting a Higher Maths class. Grace found the experience particularly rewarding, as she worked with pupils who were enthusiastic, engaged and willing to ask questions. The role also provided an opportunity to further develop her communication skills and support younger pupils in their learning.

Grace’s contribution to the academic community was matched by her own achievements, with her proudest moment being awarded S6 Science Dux at the end of the school year.

“My proudest achievement has to be being awarded S6 Science Dux at the end of the year. This really was years of work and I am especially proud of it!”

Her interest in Mathematics also extended beyond the classroom through participation in the Mathematical Olympiad for Girls, providing another opportunity to challenge herself and explore her mathematical abilities.

Throughout her time at RGC, Grace has also valued the support and encouragement of her teachers. She described the school as a warm and welcoming environment where teachers have consistently been available to answer questions, offer guidance or simply have a conversation.

Grace reflects that her time at RGC has helped them grow significantly in confidence, from the shy S1 pupil who first joined the school to the confident leaver she is today.

With four Advanced Higher A grades, multiple academic awards, a Science Dux title and valuable experience supporting younger pupils, Grace leaves RGC with an impressive record of achievement and the skills and confidence to begin the next stage of her journey.