ALUMNI PROFILES

Samuel Blackaby: Samuel studied Business, Law and Psychology with us and also completed an EPQ. He is now at the University of East Anglia studying Law with American Law. “Sixth form was a terrific experience with a lovely set of teachers. It was warm and welcoming with staff that gave great support when I needed it.” (Last updated 2024)

Elliot Bowes: Elliot joined our Football Academy (DESA) to study for his BTEC Level 3 in Sport (Performance and Excellence) before going on to the University of East Anglia to study Physical Education, Sports and Health. “I am proud to have achieved a triple distinction in my DESA course which enabled me to attend my first choice university. I found DSFC to be a supportive college that enabled me to achieve the best grades I could. The college staff are knowledgeable and proactive in their approach to guiding you throughout the course. College is different to school and you have to put in as much as you want to get out. Because I enjoyed my course I found this easy.” (Last updated 2022)

Laurence Jones: Laurence studied Drama and Theatre Studies, English Literature and Media Studies with us before completing a BA in Film and Moving Image Production at Norwich University of the Arts. He spent several years employed by Ember Films Ltd and gained experience in tv, film and commercial work. Laurence is now training to teach Media in secondary/higher education and is currently undertaking a placement at DSFC. “For me, DSFC was the first step into independence where we could take control of our studies and our lives. I’ve never felt more welcomed and confident than in my two years here, both staff and students were always friendly and onside. I will always look back in fondness of my time here, the friends I have made for life, and the qualifications that have opened the next door in my filming career. In my opinion, DSFC is a true gem for the community.” (Last updated 2026)

 Niamh Walby: Niamh studied BTEC Level 3 Children’s Play, Learning and Development with us. After leaving in the summer of 2017, she was offered a place at the prestigious nannying school in Bath, known as Norland College. At Norland, Niamh will be completing her BA Hons degree in Children’s Learning and Development, as well as gaining the Norland Diploma. “Mrs Bewick was my teacher at DSFC who taught me on the BTEC course. She supported me along with my family to help me achieve my dream.” (Last updated 2017)

Ayla Ash: Ayla discovered her passion for visual creativity during her time at DSFC where she excelled in the arts, achieving excellent grades in Film Studies, Photography and English Language and Literature. She then spent four years at Arts University Bournemouth and graduated with a degree in Film Production, with a focus on Production Design. With aspirations to work in props, graduating in the middle of an internal pandemic provided certain challenges – however, she developed her skills and built up her experience portfolio by working for free on low budget films and film shorts. Ayla’s break came with a job offer on a TV commercial and since then she has worked in TV, including the BBC’s serial production of Great Expectation starring Tom Hardy and Olivia Coleman, and film, inclding The Great Escaper starring Michael Caine and Glenda Jackson. In 2024, Ayla returned to DSFC, shortly after working on a major film for Warner Bros as a Prop Buyer, to talk to our Media Studies students about her experiences. (Last updated 2024)

Molly Beal: After leaving us with qualifications in English Language & Literature, Sociology and Media Studies, Molly went on to study Media and Communications at Loughborough University. She embraced extra-curricular opportunities during all her studies, including becoming Editor of the student magazine and Student Communications Officer whilst at DSFC. These early experiences helped pave the way for her current role as an eCommerce Researcher and Copywriter, where she specialises in SEO and marketing strategies. “It sounds cliche, but the whole college has such a friendly and supportive atmosphere. As hard as A Levels were, I miss sixth form! DSFC shaped me into the person I am now. I often think back to my time there and how teachers supported me as an individual and helped me see my worth. They inspired me hugely and without DSFC I woudn’t have so effectively learned the confidence and communication skills I now use every day. I feel it’s important to note that despite battling mental health issues during university, I reached out for help and am happy to say I managed to gain a respcted degree and job. I think it’s important for students at DSFC to remember that, despite their struggles, support and achievement is available. (Last updated 2022)

Lauren Burton: Lauren gained A Levels in Biology, Geography and PE, in addition to an AS in Maths. She left DSFC to attend St Anne’s College at the University of Oxford where she graduated in 2019 with a BA in Geography. She followed this with an MSc in Climate Change at the University of East Anglia, graduating with a Distinction. In the height of the Covid-19 lockdowns, Lauren began a PhD in Climate Science at the University of Leeds. Whilst there, she was also a Climate Communications Intern at the Priestly International Centre for Climate. She produced a series called Ask a Climate Reseatcher which aims to be an accessible, informative and empowering introduction to climate change. You can access the webpage and the YouTube video series. Lauren successfully conpleted ver viva in 2024 and began her current rose as a scientist in the Application Ready Data team at the Met Office in March 2025. (Last updated 2025)

Rosanna Elsom: Rosanna left DSFC with qualifications in English Language and Literature, Human Biology, Law and Sociology, as well as two AS qualifications in Health and Social Care and Psychology and the EPQ. On leaving us, Rosanna chose to take a gap year before continuing her education by studying Criminology at Anglia Ruskin University. She then went on further and completing a Masters in International Social Policy and Welfare and became employed by the National Probation Service as a Programme Facilitator. Rosanna is proud of achieving her A Levels despite challenging circumstances. “Dereham Sixth Form was the best two years of my education path with a friendly atmosphere created by both the students and the staff. The staff went above and beyond to support me through my A-Levels whilst I battled multiple personal fights – they had faith in me when I was close to giving up. Dereham Sixth Form helped me grow as a person and the extra-curricular groups were a bonus to such a wonderful sixth form. The team spirit amongst students and staff is a rare but amazing thing. The willingness of staff to go that extra mile is something I can never be grateful enough for.” (Last updated 2022)

Alex Jones: Alex studied for A Levels in Biology, Chemistry and Maths, as well as an AS in History with us. Upon leaving, Alex continued with university, ultimately gaining a MChem in Chemistry with Lancaster University, which also prvided the opportunity for a year in North America. Alex has since established a career as a DNA Technical Specialist at Key Forensic Services. “DSFC was inclusive and welcoming with incredibly friendly staff.” (Last updated 2022)

Edward Colman: Edward built the foundation of his career with his studies in English Language and Literature, Environmental Science, Geography and Media Studies. On completing his A-Levels, Edward entered the world of journalism, working freelance, as well as for the Eastern Daily Press, Norwich Evening News, Today’s Golfer and Golf World, supporting their social media and digital development. In 2018 he became the Head of Marketing for the Recruit Venture Group. Alongisde his professional roles, Edward became an Elected-Member for Norfolk County Council in 2017 becoming one of the youngest democratically-elected Conservatives in the UK. “DSFC has very supportive staff that made a real difference and were always on hand to help with CV writing and advice. They were supportive of work experience placements while at college and provided me with everything I needed to succeed, not only academically.” (Last updated 2019).

Sam Hannan: Sam is currently working for Capgemini, one of the world’s largest IT outsourcing companies. He joined them on leaving DSFC with his qualifications in Computing, Business Studies, English Language and Literature and Spanish and secured a place on their degree apprenticeship scheme. Sam’s role in the company involves working as a Software Engineer with Oracle PL/SQL. “I thoroughly enjoyed my time at DSFC, where I learned both academic skills and broader life skills. I studied a broad range of subjects (including Computing and English – not a common combination!) and found all subject areas to be taught by friendly, passionate staff. I was then successful in gaining a place on a highly sought after degree apprenticeship cheme, where there were around 1,000 applicants for each place.” (Last updated 2016)

Eleanor Colman: Eleanor studied Biology, Chemistry, French and Fine Art with us before pursuing a BSc in Biological Sciences at the University of Brighton, followed by an MSc in Cancer and Clinical Oncology at the Barts Cancer Institute. During her university studies she carried out research into lung cancer treatments and cancer immunotherapies. She also undertook research into triple negative breast cancer, working with Professor Richard Faragher, President of the America Ageing Association and former Chair of several leading international ageing and biomedical research organisations. “I could not have been happier at DSFC. Brilliant students, brilliant staff and a fantastic community feel. Really set me up for the future.” (Last updated 2022).

Felicity Meachem: Felicity studied for A Levels in Photography, Art and English Literature. In 2014, she embarked on an Art Foundation Course at Wensum Lodge, Norwich which then set her up to begin a Fine Art Painting degree at the University of Brighton. “I loved being a student at Dereham Sixth Form College. I remember great times from mu multi-European exchange to the Netherlands, the many gallery trips we took to London and photographing the Sixth Form Leaver’s Ball.” (Last updated 2016)

Harry Scrivener: After studying a range of courses at DSFC – Philosophy and Ethics, Psychology, Biology, Sociology, Classics and Law – Harry is currently studying Philosophy and Sociology at the University of Essex with a year’s study abroad in Malta. “Dereham Sixth Form changed my life. When I started sixth form, I lacked confidence both in academics and in my ability to socialise with my peers. During my years at DSFC, I built up a number of friendships and was given the chance to go on various trips, including a model U.N. conference and a visit to the Supreme Court. These friendships and experiences, alog with the support of the teachers, allowed me to become a more confident person and one who could see myself studying at a higher level.” (Last updated 2018)

Josie Burton: On leaving DSFC, Josie went on to study Nursing at the University of Nottingha, achieving a Masters Degree in Nursing Science. She qualified as a nurse in 2016 and has since built a varied and highly specialised clinical career. Her early career began in Neonatal Intensive Care, where she cared for critically ill and extremely premature babines. In 2018, she moved to Oncology, working as a chemotherapy nurse, before returning to Neonatal Care in 2021. In 2022, she was promoted to Deputy Ward Sister and Clinical Educator. In her current role, alongside her clinical responsibilities, she plays a key role in teaching and mentoring student and newly qualified nurses. “I really enjoyed my time at DSFC, it was a really supportive environment. I had no idea what I wanted to do in life when I first started sixth form but staff were realy encouraging and helpful. I love seeing updates about what students are up to.” (Last updated 2023)

Lewis Long: Lewis gained A Levels in Maths, Further Maths, Physics and History, as well as an AS in Chemistry and the EPQ. After leaving DSFC, Lewis studied for a BEng in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Surrey. Following on from this, Lewis is now studying for an MSc in Composites at Imperial College, London. Whilst in between the two courses, he worked at GE Aviation, designing components for the Airbus aircraft. (Last updated 2016)

Harry Palmer: Harry studied Maths, Physics, Computing and Film Studies at DSFC before attending the University of Hertfordshire to study Aerospace Engineering with Space Technology. After three years, Harry graduated with First Class Honours and went on to complete his Pilot Training, during which he spent some time in New Zeland. Since qualifying, Harry has been a First Officer with EasyJet on flights to Paris. (Last updated 2018)

Claire Willis: Claire studied for A Levels in Chemistry, Biology and Physics and also took AS Levels in Drama and English Language. After leaving DSFC, she has been studying at the Royal Veterinary College in London. She has already gained a First Class BSc (Hons) degree in BioVeterinary Science and is due to graduate as a Veterinary Surgeon in 2018. (Last updated 2016).

Ellisa Cryan: Ellisa left us with qualifications in Psychology, Sociology, Business Studies and History. She was successful in obtaining a place on Barclay’s scholarship programme and became one of their Regional Coordinators at the age of 20, managing 11 projects and 52 people. She subsequently moved to Natwest where she became a Manager for the Mortgage Operations department, being the youngest team manager in the business overseeing 22 employees. “Sixth form was a great experience but very tough. The sixth form was supportive when I needed to stay for a third year. This third year allowed me to boost my grades but also change a subject. Some of the tutors have made a lasting impression on me and without their belief, I don’t think I would be where I am today.” (Last updated 2016).

Helena Fox: After atending DSFC to study Sociology, Geography and Philosophy and Ethics, Helena chose to undertake a Bsc in Criminology and Sociology at Royal Holloway, University of London. During this time she also trained as a Special Constable with Surrey Police. After graduating, Helena moved to Australia for eight months whilst decicing on the direction for her career. Whilst there, Helena made the decision to apply for the forces and joined Britannia Royal Naval College for her initial training in 2017. This included a six-week stint on HMS Ocean in the Mediterranean. At the end of the year, Helena passed out of Dartmouth and moved to HMS Raleigh where she is now training to become a Logistics Officer. “I really enjoyed my time at the college. I went on some brilliant trips including New York, Sicility and Aberystwyth for a Geography field trip (which ended up being my favourite).” (Last updated 2018)

Matthew Surman: Matthew went to the University of East Anglia to study Biological and Medicinal Chemistry (MChem) after completing his A Levels in Biology, Chemistry, Psychology and Sport. This has led to his current position as a PhD student at the Centre for Sustainable Chemical Technologies at the University of Bath. “The staff were really great at encouraging me to work towards the best of my ability. Great working and relaxing environment.” (Last updated 2018)

Jessica Stockdale: Jessica left Dereham Sixth Form College with high grades in A Level Maths, Further Maths, Chemistry and History. Alongside these, she also studied AS Government and Politics and completed the EPQ. On leaving DSFC she undertook a Mathematics degree at the University of Nottingham, achieving a First Class Honours. In 2014 she began studying for her PhD in Statistics,focusing on epidemic modelling. “I thoroughly enjoyed my time at DSFC and feel it prepared me well for my time at university, particularly my A-Level in Further Maths which gave me a good head start in my degree. A big thanks to DSFC for inspiring my interest in mathematics, which has really defined where I am today!” (Last updated 2016)

Sam Braysher: Sam achieved qualifications in Music, English Language & Literature and Government & Politics. He then went on to study at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in Longon, completing a BMus in Jazz Saxophone from 2007 to 2011 before becoming a Guildhall Artist Fellow from 2011 to 2013. Since graduating, he has worked as a freelance jazz saxophonist based in London, performing a wide range of concerts and gigs at jazz clubs and festivals across the UK and Europe, incuding venues such as Ronnie Scott’s, the Vortex, the 606 Club, the Barbican and the Royal Festival Hall. He is also involved in music education, teaching at City University, London abd Junior Guidhall as well as in several schools. Alongside performing and teaching, Sam has released two albums that have been reviewed in publications including The Observer, The Times and Jazzwise. “I look back very fondly on my two years at DSFC. The college had a really nice atmosphere and I made lots of friends during my time there. I had some great subject teachers and I’m particularly grateful to Cathy Brooks, my music teacher, for helping me to access a conservatoire education in London.” (Last updated 2022).

Rob Impey: Rob studied A Level Biology, Chemistry and Geography, as well as AS Level Business Studies whilst at DSFC. He commenced work as a Trainee Biomedical Scientist at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH), King’s Lynn in 2006. This involved studying for a fully funded day-release BSc (Hons) in Applied Biomedical Science at Anglia Ruskin University, whilst working full-time, rotating through the four disciplines of the Pathology Laboratory of the QEH. Rob graduated in 2010 with a degree, no debt, savings, and four years of work under his belt. Following the completion of a Specialist Diploma in Medical Microbiology, Rob was promoted to Specialist Biomedial Scientist (BMS) in 2011. In 2013 an opportunity arose to join the Department of Clinical Microbiology at the Queen Alexandra Hospital, Portsmouth. Four years later, Rob began a Masters degree in Biomedical Science at Anglia Ruskin University. Part way through his studies he was awarded a promotion to Senior BMS and graduated with Distinction in 2020. In this role, Rob works in a team of 63 medicalm scientific and support colleagues, processing over 600,000 tests per annum. “I had a great time at DSFC, mixing academic study with a lot of fun! I learned in particular the importance of disciplined self-directed study, and how to strike the balance between work and play. I received excellent advice from the teaching staff throughout.” (Last updated 2022)

Simon Mowbray: Simon left DSFC in 2006, having studied Sports Studies, Business Studies and Geography. In 2009 he graduated from the University of Lincoln with a BSc (Hons) in Sports Development and Coaching. On completion of his degree he spent three months coaching soccer in the USA ahead of creating a sports coaching company – Multi Sport Pro – in 2009 along with a fellow graduate. In seven years, they developed the company from operating in one small rural school working two hours a week to working in over 50 primary schools in Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire. In 2014, Multi Sport Pro, with Simon at the helm as Managing Director, were shortlisted for the Small/Medium Business of the Year for Lincolnshire and won third place. (Last updated 2016)

Richard Cresswell: Richard left DSFC in 2003 with A Levels in Physics, Chemistry and Electronics. He went on to study Physics at the University of Manchester, spending his third year at the University of California. His final degree thesis formed the spine of an article pulished in journal ‘Physics Review’, for which her was also a credited author and Richard achieved similar success with his masters dissertation. He has spent a number of years now working for different hedge funds in a risk management role. He gained the position of Chief Risk Officer and, since 202, has been Head of Risk at Citadel, one of the largest global hedge funds. “Dereham Sixth Form College had the perfect atmosphere to start the journey towards independent learning with friendly teaching staff. I recall the excitement of being treated like an adult, capaable of managing my workloadn and learning pace versus the highly structured and disciplined format at high school. The combination of students from across local high schools was a mini taste of the experience of going to university.” (Last updated 2022).

Dr Chris Jones: Chris studied English, French, History and Law with us. He initially studied Law and French Law at the University of Surrey, but ultimately decided it wasn’t the right fit for him. He subsequently enrolled for a BA in Modern History at the University of East Anglia. Having graduated with First Class Honours he then completed an MA in Modern European History, followed by a PhD at UEA. He is now employed as a Lecturer in International History at the University. In 2016 we welcomed Chris back to college to take part in our university lecture series. “I had a great time going back to my old sixth form to talk to some aspiring students. Such a good college with great staff and students. I found my time at DSFC to be thoroughly enjoyable. I met many of my best friends there, who had gone to other high schools in the local area. Academically it was rigorous and the staff were always supportive and encouraging.” (Last updated 2016)