International Women's Day

At d’Overbroeck’s, we are proud to celebrate International Women’s Day by shining a spotlight on the incredible achievements of Julie Zhu, a shining example of ambition, talent, and determination nurtured within our supportive Sixth Form community.

Julie, joined us in Year 12, bringing with her an infectious curiosity, remarkable drive, and a passion for Economics. Now, just two years later, her hard work and commitment have been rewarded with an offer to study Economics at the University of Cambridge – an outstanding achievement that reflects her talent, resilience, and the exceptional support she’s received along the way.

Supporting Individuality and Inspiring Excellence

We pride ourselves on fostering a personalised learning environment where every student is valued as an individual. Julie’s story is a perfect reflection of our unique approach, which combines academic rigour with bespoke guidance and pastoral care, ensuring that each student feels empowered to reach their full potential.

Julie’s A-level programme – Economics, Maths, Further Maths, and Chemistry – reflects both her academic breadth and intellectual ambition, and her success speaks to the power of personalised teaching, expert mentoring, and a school culture that encourages students to aim high.

Academic Excellence and Tailored Support

Reflecting on her journey, Julie said:

“I'm truly indebted to my personal tutor, Simon (Director of Studies, Economics), for his invaluable suggestions on my EPQ and personal statement. Kendell (Director of Studies, Economics) provided crucial administrative support and emotional comfort during my toughest times, and I'm deeply appreciative. In daily lessons, Llewelyn's (Teacher of Business and Economics) insights into developmental and political economics were truly inspiring.”

Julie’s gratitude extends to the entire Maths department, who recognised her potential early on and nurtured her mathematical talent, providing not just answers, but the encouragement and depth of knowledge that fuels intellectual curiosity.

“Their unwavering trust in my potential to become an excellent mathematician has been a constant source of motivation,” she added.

This collaborative and personalised approach – where expert subject teachers work closely with pastoral and administrative staff to ensure each student’s needs are fully met – is what sets our Sixth Form apart. It’s an environment where students thrive academically and personally, supported at every step by a team that truly cares.

A Future Filled with Possibility

Julie’s offer from Cambridge is not her only success – she has also secured offers from Imperial College London for Economics, Finance and Data Science, and from UCL for Economics and Business with East European Studies. These outstanding achievements reflect not only her own talent and drive but also the bespoke guidance and rich opportunities available to every student at d’Overbroeck’s Sixth Form.

Celebrating Women’s Achievement and Accelerating Action

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, Julie’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting young women to pursue ambitious goals, whether in traditionally male-dominated fields like mathematics and economics, or wherever their passions lie. We believe in nurturing confidence, creativity, and ambition — giving every student the tools, guidance, and self-belief they need to break barriers and achieve their full potential.

This year’s International Women’s Day theme, Accelerate Action, is a call to recognise the urgent need to remove barriers to gender equality and ensure that every young woman, like Julie, has the support and encouragement to thrive. By championing individuality, encouraging bold ambitions, and providing tailored support, we are proud to play a part in that mission.