Record-breaking athlete leaps to GCSE triumph

RGS student Aiden Jolly is celebrating an outstanding set of GCSE results after achieving ten grade 9s and a grade 8.

The 16-year-old's exceptional results came alongside a busy life outside the classroom, with Aiden juggling schoolwork with sport and helping to look after his four younger siblings, including supporting them with their homework.

One of his proudest achievements was when he broke the school’s high-jump record in Year 7 with a jump of 1.34 metres before setting a new triple-jump record in Year 9 with a distance of 11.58 metres.

He has represented the school in football, cricket and basketball, while also playing football for Ripon Panthers. He will continue playing for Ripon City FC and is hoping to play football during sixth form, as well as helping establish a sixth-form basketball team.

A particular sporting highlight came when his football team won the league - a memorable season which also saw Aiden score his first goal for the side.

He has continued to develop his basketball, successfully trialling for Harrogate Marshalls and earning a place this summer alongside his friend Akein.

Away from sport, Aiden has also worked as a waiter, adding to an already busy schedule.

Now, however, his attention turns to the next stage of his education. He will take A-levels in maths, further maths, chemistry and physics and hopes to pursue a career in engineering

“I can’t wait to tackle A-levels with my friends who also have similar interests to mine,” he said.

With ten grade 9s behind him and four demanding A-level subjects ahead, Aiden is already looking towards a future in engineering – while continuing to make plenty of time for his sporting ambitions.