Shay Henson

This week we catch up with a more recent leaver, Shay Henson, who completed his studies at Winstanley in 2024, before taking a gap year. He recently started his degree at the prestigious St Andrew’s in Scotland.

Shay says:

‘Before joining Winstanley, I attended Holy Family Primary School and St Mary’s Catholic High School in Astley. When I arrived at College, I immediately felt the benefit of outstanding teaching and encouragement. The environment at Winstanley helped me thrive both academically and personally.

I studied A-level Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry and completed an EPQ in Economics, achieving A*, A*, A*, A. After taking a gap year, this September, I began studying Economics at the University of St Andrews.

St Andrews has recently been ranked number two in the UK, ahead of Oxbridge, and is sometimes referred to as “Stoxbridge.”  With the university’s growing reputation, I hope my story might inspire other students to aim high and consider all the possibilities available to them.

Since starting at St Andrews, I’ve been awarded the Outstanding Academic Achievement Award and the Tait Wardlaw Scholarship, worth £20,000 over the course of my degree. I’m thriving both academically and socially, and I’ve embraced university life wholeheartedly.

Winstanley College gave me the confidence, guidance, and support to aim high and achieve more than I ever imagined. The teachers encouraged me to challenge myself and always gave me the tools to succeed, and I’m truly grateful for everything they’ve done.’

Thanks for sharing your story, Shay and encouraging other students to aim high. If you are a former student, follow the link to join our alumni network: Alumni - Winstanley College