KES Academy Alumni, Alina Ahsan Awarded Royal Gold Medal from His Majesty King Charles

On Sunday 7th January, King Edward VII Academy alumni, Alina Ahsan was awarded HM Royal Gold Medal from His Majesty King Charles in a ceremony at Sandringham.  

Each year, an exceptional student from King Edward VII Academy is selected for the prestigious Gold Medal Award received from the King in an in-person awards ceremony. Alina Ahsan won the award in 2023, having excelled during her time at King Edward VII Academy, showing dedication to her studies as well as being a support for her peers, attributes that make her truly deserving of the award from His Majesty. Alina said: 

“Receiving the King’s Gold Medal from His Majesty King Charles in the historic, regal setting of Sandringham is the honour of my lifetime. Meeting and speaking with His Majesty and being awarded the King’s Gold Medal is a momentous, joyous occasion and is undoubtedly a great privilege that I shall cherish forever.” 

Alina joined KES Academy in Year 7 and her outstanding academic ability and excellent work ethic led her to achieve all 9’s in her GCSEs, being named as the highest performing student in her Year group and going on to achieve A*AA grades in her A-Levels at KES Academy Sixth Form. Alina looks back at her time at KES Academy and KES Academy Sixth Form with fond memories, valuing the guidance and support from her teachers. Alina said: 

“Reflecting on my educational journey at KES I am overwhelmed with eternal gratitude for my teachers for guiding, motivating and inspiring me to aspire for Oxford and to strive for academic excellence. I look back at my alma mater KES with great admiration and respect for instilling in me virtues and values of diligence and discipline. The world-class teaching facilities at KES, like the cutting-edge science labs, stunning library, excellent computer rooms were invaluable in creating an intellectually enriching environment. 

 

I had the immense privilege of being taught and mentored by genuinely nice and truly remarkable teachers who guided me through my educational journey at KES, from establishing and presiding over the Debating Club at school to applying for studying medicine at Oxford my teachers, especially Mr Hogger and Mr White whose perspicacious wisdom, insight and knowledge was invaluable.”  

Throughout her education at KES Academy, Alina set her sights high on pursuing a place at Oxford University. This year, Alina achieved this goal and is currently studying Medicine at Oxford, ranked as one of the best universities in the world, and plans to continue to pursue a career in medicine. 

“As a medical student at Oxford, I plan to endeavour for engaging and learning more about the intricacies of the human body. In addition to my academic pursuits, I plan to write articles for The Oxford Student and since I have the honour of being a Life Member of Oxford Union, I intend to participate in elections and be involved with hosting debates. 

 

After qualifying as a doctor from Oxford University, I would love to work for World Health Organisation as an expert in Global Health and use my academic knowledge and scientific expertise to resolve contemporary challenges.” 

Head of Sixth Form, Alistair White said: 

“Alina has been an outstanding student of King Edward VII Academy since she joined in Year 7. She is an extremely articulate and mature young lady who is polite, responsible and reliable. She consistently demonstrated both a thirst for learning and selfless attitude that made her extremely popular with both staff and students. 

 

Besides her exemplary academic record Alina also made extremely positive contributions to the school and wider community. She was a Senior Prefect and as such, an excellent role model to both sixth formers and students in lower Years. She supported her peers during her A-Levels, helping them with their understanding and studies, and was involved in several enrichment activities. These included the debating society, the school newspaper, the eco-committee, charity work, and helping younger students with reading. 

 

Alina’s mother is a GP at a local doctor's surgery, and it has been her ambition since she joined the school to follow in her footsteps and pursue a career in medicine. More specifically, ever since I first met her as a Year 7 student, Alina has been clear in her goal to study medicine at Oxford University. We are delighted that she has achieved this and sure that it is the first step in an outstanding career in the medical profession. Alina is a richly deserving winner of this award and we look forward to following her future successes.”