Age 16-18
Havering Sixth Form student Rehan Ram, who beat a life-threatening illness to achieve a Triple Distinction* in his BTEC qualification, said he puts his success down to his ‘relentless work ethic’ and the support of his teachers.
Rehan was overjoyed with his Business BTEC results, but said it had been an ‘incredibly tough’ start to his New City College journey after he was diagnosed with cancer.
The illness and subsequent treatment forced him to take an 8-month break from his education, which was a huge setback for him just before he started sixth form, but he still managed to achieve the top results – well above his target grades – which are equivalent to three A*s.
He said: “The past three years have been an incredibly tough journey for me. When I started sixth form, I had just overcome a life-threatening illness which resulted in me having to have an eight month academic setback compared to all my peers, as well as my mental and physical health being at an all-time low.
“However, through my sheer resilience, relentless work ethic, drive to never give up in life and my self-obsession of being number one, I not only overcame adversity, but excelled!”
Rehan, who is aiming for a career in investment banking, said his success is also partly because he had some exceptional teachers at college.
“Havering Sixth Form has supported me throughout my entire journey, with exceptional teachings and dedicated staff across the business department.
“They have consistently pushed me to go above and beyond as well as providing me with excellent resources in order to prosper through my exams and assignments.”
Now he is looking forward to his future.
He said: “I hope to secure a degree apprenticeship within the financial sector specifically within investment banking, working for a prestigious financial institution.”
Rehan was just one of hundreds of students celebrating success across New City College.
