My name is Arlen Chu. As a Hong Kong student who joined Brampton for the rigorous one-year GCSE program before transitioning to A levels, I have now reached my final A2 year—a milestone that fills me with nostalgia and excitement. Reflecting on my time here, Brampton College has been a transformative chapter in my life, blending academic growth with unexpected warmth.
Hong Kong’s fast-paced, competitive education system often left me craving a more personalized approach. Brampton’s small class sizes—where teachers truly see you—caught my attention. Coming from a city where I often felt lost in crowded classrooms, the intimacy of learning here was a breath of fresh air. With classes rarely exceeding ten students, teachers tailor their support, whether breaking down complex theories or refining exam strategies. The college’s stellar reputation for A level success sealed my decision, and I have never looked back.
Moving overseas was daunting. The initial quiet of Brampton felt worlds apart from Hong Kong’s bustling streets, but the college’s inclusive environment quickly put me at ease. To my surprise, I connected with fellow Hong Kong students, forming an instant support network. Together, we navigated the nuances of British culture, shared laughs over confusing football jokes, and even introduced classmates to Chinese traditions like Chinese New Year. Beyond my Hong Kong circle, friendships blossomed with peers from Europe, the Middle East, and beyond, turning Brampton into a vibrant global community.
What truly sets Brampton apart is the bond between students and teachers. Unlike the formal hierarchies I experienced back home, Brampton’s first-name basis dissolves barriers, fostering mutual respect and approachability. While the teachers’ expertise in exam preparation is unmatched, what resonates most is their dedication to nurturing curiosity. Here, educators aren’t just instructors—they’re mentors, cheerleaders, and even confidants. Take my maths teacher, Momina: during my A levels, she noticed I was struggling with calculus. Instead of rushing through the syllabus or demanding rote memorization, she patiently broke down integration, emphasizing understanding over recall. Her focus on understanding the proof transformed calculus from a maze of formulas into a logical puzzle.
As my A2 year draws to a close, my ambitions have crystallized. Inspired by Brampton’s culture of intellectual curiosity, I plan to pursue Computer Science at university. The College hasn’t just prepared me for exams—it’s taught me to think critically, embrace challenges with resilience, and explore beyond the syllabus.
Brampton College has been more than a stepping stone — it’s been a home. To fellow international students: if you seek a place where teachers feel like friends, diversity is celebrated, and growth is nurtured with care, Brampton will exceed your hopes. As I prepare to leave, I carry forward not just knowledge, but lifelong connections and the confidence to chase my dreams.
