Phoebe Panks
I attended Walton Academy from 2016 to 2023, completing my GCSEs and then studying at Walton Post 16.
During sixth form, I studied A levels in chemistry, biology, history and core maths. With the support of my teachers, I achieved the grades needed to secure a place on my dream course, biochemistry, at the University of Sheffield. Although I was excited to take this next step, I quickly realised that university wasn’t the right path for me at that time, and I decided to take a different direction.
It’s strange to think how much can change from year 7. When I first started at Walton, science was my least favourite subject, and I never could have predicted how important it would become to me. Through engaging lessons, practical work and teachers sharing their own experiences in areas such as marine biology and genetics, science became something I genuinely loved. Those lessons sparked a curiosity and passion that has stayed with me ever since.
After leaving university, I spent time working in two part-time roles: one at the British Heart Foundation and another back at Walton as an exam invigilator. Both roles helped me to build confidence, develop new skills and think more carefully about what I wanted from my future. During this time, I also rediscovered creative interests I had put aside, including writing and face-painting, which led to one of my favourite experiences so far — face-painting at a local primary school summer fete.
In 2024, I returned to Walton Academy as a science technician. Although this wasn’t something I had planned or expected, it has proved to be exactly what I needed. Being back in a familiar community with a strong sense of belonging has been refreshing, and the role has given me valuable experience and the space to reflect on my next steps. While it isn’t my long-term career, I’m grateful for the opportunities it has provided.
Outside of work, I enjoy reading and writing, and I hope to one day turn these interests into a career, with the dream of publishing my own work. Whenever I think about this, I’m reminded of my English lessons at Walton, where I was first encouraged to experiment with different writing styles and push myself beyond my comfort zone.
My time at Walton has played a huge role in shaping who I am today, and I’m incredibly grateful for the encouragement and support I received — even beyond the point of leaving as a student. It’s a real reflection of how much the staff care about their students and the journeys they go on after Walton.
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We are Walton
Please visit our dedicated alumni page, We are Walton, for more inspiring stories and experiences from our former students, and to learn how you can become part of our unique network.
