Life at sixth form

I started sixth form in September 2019, right after finishing secondary school in June – coincidentally, around the time of prom. Before enrolling in sixth form, my mum was uncertain where to send me. Sometime between June and September, I almost enrolled in a large college. I remember attending the induction days, where you'd supposedly meet new people, learn more about the subjects you wished to study, and familiarize yourself with the building. 

On the first day, we received information about a variety of subjects we could attend. Unsure which ones to choose, I settled on computer science, Spanish, and French. Being fluent in both Spanish and French, I felt it was a better choice than others. However, computer science wasn't for me. I remember feeling uncomfortable during the introduction, with random people talking negatively about me. This wasn't new; it always happened. However, the teachers in the Spanish and French classes were friendly, and everyone seemed to have prior knowledge of the languages, so I felt more at ease there. 

During my brief time, I encountered a few students from my primary and secondary schools. Eventually, my mum was informed about a temporary sixth form placement from September 2019 to January 2020, which I joined. Fortunately, I didn't have to stay longer due to lockdown and the pandemic. Before starting, I dreaded it. The idea of being in a classroom full of strangers without friends seemed daunting. On the first day, I felt isolated, observing others who already seemed acquainted. 

At lunchtime, I sat alone in the cafeteria, feeling overwhelmed and on the verge of tears. Just when I was about to leave, a girl approached me, introducing herself and inviting me to hang out with her and her friends. It felt like a miracle. From then on, I made friends effortlessly. The subjects I studied were Business studies, Maths, and English Language. Fortunately, I didn't have to retake English Language due to a good remark on my GCSE exam. 

During lessons, I found myself lazy, but my newfound friends made the experience enjoyable. As months passed, we hung out and supported each other. When lockdown hit in January 2020, all schools closed, and exams were canceled. This brought relief, as we were all awarded good grades without sitting exams. Still, I would have passed them anyway. 

Returning to sixth form after lockdown brought back familiar feelings of anxiety. Again, I found myself alone until a girl invited me to hang out with her friends. This time, I was stunned but grateful for the gesture. Over time, we became friends, and I felt more comfortable. 

In this second stint, I studied BTEC Sport and Applied Science. Initially challenging, I found them easier with hard work. The supportive atmosphere in my sports class made the experience worthwhile. We were like a family, always looking out for each other.

On another note, there were a couple of moments where the attitudes of some such as students or an individual from the catering team would direct negative energy towards me for no reason whatsoever. I learned that individuals who are not happy with themselves, who are not doing well it seems, are the ones who are bullies. These people will pry on you for being a loner or perhaps not knowing something and instead of explaining, they will reveal their stinking attitude. Yet, despite giving your all, being nice and unbothersome, they continue to be pricks all through their lives. Not naming and shaming anyone, they're already living shameful, miserable lives lol. As someone who always minds their own business, avoids people and communication, mostly because of the bad everywhere and in the world, I believe that there is good people and there is bad people and that's pretty much as clear as it gets. It really saddens me that someone is easily able to pick on someone else for just minding their own business and going about their day, and I always think, "Why me?" But, if I'm the only one getting all of it, then I'll take it over anyone else ever having to. Transitioning from primary school, to secondary, to sixth-form, and finally university, I wonder when these bad moments will finally end. Everywhere I go it just never ends. The only safe place I know where it is certain nothing unsettling will come about, is indoors at home, in my room. Look for the purest of heart in people, nothing less.

On results day in June 2022, I achieved excellent grades in both courses and was on my way to starting university in September. To my amazing teachers who always went above and beyond for us, I thank you deeply.

Life at school

Commencing on my journey at Seibukan Karate Club in Top Valley, Nottingham, back in 2013, I was a typical 10-year-old with a limited view of the world beyond school, YouTube, and games like Roblox. Those early years were filled with the simplicity of school routines, YouTube videos, and the occasional Minecraft or Gmod binge sessions with XboxAddictionz, Stampylonghead or Venturiantale. 

Primary school days were a blend of learning and cherished moments. Break times were for running around the field or playing games like bulldog and dobby on the playground. Indoor activities like the dreaded Activate program, a 5 minute dance workout, though disliked, were accompanied by absolute bangers like Sound Of The Underground by Girls Aloud.

Golden Time, a weekly treat of games and free time, offered a chance to unwind and socialize. End-of-year celebrations, like organizing mini parties and movie nights, were cherished memories of excitement and joy. 

Yet, amidst the laughter and fun, there were dull moments. Instances of unjust blame and experiencing bullying left their mark. Mean teachers. Bullies. Secondary school brought a mix of anticipation and apprehension. The transition was daunting, with challenges like interpreting complex timetables and facing unexpected tasks like an advanced math's treasure hunt on induction day. (It was mostly challenging math's questions rather than a treasure hunt) Unless I'm just being dumb and it was some weak boresome CSI shit. Then again, it was before actually starting Year 7.

Early years in secondary school were marred by bullying and isolation. Running became a learned habit and means of safety for me. However, as time passed, friendships formed, and the school environment improved. 

By the later years of secondary school, especially at 15-16 years old, I had transformed physically and mentally. Consistently training in Karate and personal fitness training routines had sculpted me into a more confident individual. I had became a big and strong person and just thriving every single day. Academic achievements in subjects like Food Preparation & Nutrition, Science, Spanish, and English and Math's showcased my growth and determination. 

Though mischief was once a part of my school days, experiences like getting caught with stink bombs and facing consequences like exclusion from school or Spring College were turning points. The days spent in Spring College, isolated and unstimulated, a feeling of eternal never-ending hell left a lasting impact. They were the longest days of my life.

Reflecting on my journey through school, I recognize the highs and lows that shaped me. From carefree moments of childhood joy to challenges that tested my resilience, each experience contributed to my growth and understanding of myself and others. School life, with all its complexities, has left an enduring imprint on my journey towards adulthood. I will never be able to forget those, both students and teachers, who would pick on me and aim the blame on myself my entire life. To my amazing teachers who always went above and beyond for us, I thank you deeply.