Icenian interview: Maddie Bicknell

What year did you begin and leave Langley?

I joined Langley in Year 9, aged 13, in 2012 and went on to do my GCSEs and A-Levels, going on to leave in 2017.

What did you study at Langley?

I studied Biology, Chemistry and Psychology at A-Level with an AS Level in Creative Writing.

Did you know what career you wanted to pursue during your time at Langley?

I started Langley very much set on becoming a veterinarian. My A-Level choices reflected this. I still have this as a goal, as I now have all the qualifications I need to pursue that in the future.

Which co-curricular activities were you involved in, and have they been helpful, for example, helping with transferable skills?

Whilst at Langley, I was part of the headmaster’s council and was captain of the 1st netball team whilst also being a member of the kayaking academy. These roles gave me the confidence to speak up and voice my ideas and listen to valuable information from my peers.

If you went, what did you study at university? 

After taking a gap year, I studied Biology at Swansea University to better my A-Level results (special thanks to Mr Sitch, who had to tutor me for the 6th year running).

If you’re working, how did your career begin?

I am currently a Personal Trainer and Deckhand on a 70m superyacht that alternates between the Caribbean and the Mediterranean during the year. I was looking for a job where I could apply all my different skills whilst earning good money and travelling the world. I hope to save enough through this to go into property development full time.

So far, what have been your post-school highlights (in your career, onwards studies, family, travel etc.)?

Since leaving school, I’m most proud of gaining my personal training qualification at university, graduating with first-class honours during a global pandemic and securing an extremely competitive position within the yachting industry.

On reflection, did your time at Langley help your attitude towards career choices and progression?

Langley promoted a sense of pride in the work I created. It pushed me to strive for my best possible grades and has instilled a work ethic that I have taken and developed into adulthood.

What advice would you give to students considering Langley, their A-Levels or careers?

Langley was a blessing in disguise. As a humble 13-year-old, I don’t think I realised the importance of supportive teachers, hard-working peers and extracurricular activities. Looking back on my five years there, I now realise the school’s role in the adult I’m now becoming. Therefore my advice to anybody of any age is to always say yes to the opportunities thrown at you. These will shape your likes and dislikes, help you find the path you’re meant to follow and teach you how to make the most out of any situation, no matter how good, bad or boring.

Your fondest memory of Langley?

I have many fond memories from my time at Langley. Finding a new love of Geography through Mr Dyson during my GCSEs, hating and simultaneously loving every moment of Chemistry with Mr Sitch (thank you for putting up with me EVERY year), and the various sporting activities are to name a few.

I look forward to visiting Langley in the future, and I wish the whole school well.