When Connor enrolled at Ludlow Sixth Form College in September 2024, he began studying A-level Maths and Computer Science. It soon became evident that his strength in mathematics exceeded the demands of the standard A-level course.
Today, Connor is studying A-level Further Maths and Computer Science, and he is now thriving in subjects that challenge and stretch his technical thinking.
Connor’s favourite part of maths is algebra. Within the first few weeks of starting college, his aptitude was recognised by his maths teacher, who suggested he move up to Further Maths. Connor accepted the challenge!
With support from staff, he stepped up to the more demanding course and hasn’t looked back since. Further Maths is widely regarded as one of the most rigorous A-levels available. Still, Connor has embraced the complexity, consistently working hard in lessons and in additional boost sessions to stay on track.
His teachers describe him as someone who is completely at home with numbers, so much so that he has even been known to spot the occasional mistake and suggest corrections.
Coding Creativity in Computer Science
Alongside maths, Connor studies Computer Science, where his favourite part is simple: coding.
For his non-exam assessment (NEA), Connor is developing a fishing game using Python. Inspired by games he enjoys playing, he set himself the challenge of recreating the mechanics from scratch.
The game includes:
- A mini-game mechanic where players must keep a marker within a moving bar to catch fish
- A reward system allowing players to sell fish for in-game currency
- Upgradeable equipment, such as better fishing rods
Connor describes his code as “functional” and built largely around structured logic. He explains that he includes lots of carefully layered “if” statements that check, test and trigger outcomes. It’s a practical, hands-on approach that shows strong computational thinking and problem-solving skills.
He is already considering progressing to a Level 4 qualification in Computer Science at Herefordshire College after completing his current course.
Personal Achievements
One of Connor’s proudest achievements came outside of his specialist subjects.
After not enjoying high school and initially failing his English GCSE, Connor retook the qualification at college. With the support of his teachers and dedicated work in boost sessions, he improved from a Grade 2 to a Grade 5, even winning the English prize!
It marked a turning point for Connor and proved that with the right environment and support, he could do very well.
When Connor first arrived at college, he didn’t know many people and found parts of the transition challenging. Since then, he has built a close group of friends and become fully part of college life.
Trips into Hereford, shared study sessions and daily interactions have helped him settle in and feel at home. College has not only supported his academic development but also his confidence.
Looking Ahead
Connor is still exploring his future career options and is keeping an open mind about where his studies might lead. Rather than rushing into a fixed plan, he is focusing on developing his skills and gaining as much experience as possible in the subjects he enjoys most.
What is already clear is that he has a highly analytical approach to problem-solving, a steadily growing portfolio of practical coding work, and the determination to push through challenges. These are all skills that will serve him well in whatever path he chooses next.
Find out more about A Level Further Maths: HERE
Find out more about A Level Computer Science: HERE