Young carer’s exam success brings him one step closer to dream career

A YOUNG carer’s GCSE triumph brings him one step closer to his dream of becoming a doctor.

Ripon Grammar School pupil William Renton - who achieved five grade 9s, four 8s and two 7s - has been inspired by the doctors and nurses caring for his younger sister to pursue a career in medicine.

Wheelchair user Ellie, 15, who also attends RGS, says she would give her big brother a grade 9 in caring: “I appreciate him always being there for me, whether I need a cuppa or help with homework.”

The proud sister, who suffers from a life limiting condition called Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 2 (SMA II) and needs regular hospital treatment and support, added: “William has had to juggle his life with being almost a full-time young carer, and he does a wonderful job.”

As a registered young carer, William, 16, says: “Growing up with Ellie has shown me a side to the medical world that most don’t see.

“I’ve met so many incredible doctors and other medical professionals who have looked after my family and I in some of our most difficult times and they have inspired me to do the same for others.”

Delighted with his GCSE results, William, from Kirkby Malzeard, is now looking forward to studying chemistry, biology, maths and music at A-level, with his sights firmly set on medical school.

He has had to juggle his studies while supporting his sister with regular day-to-day tasks like preparing her medicines, helping her at mealtimes and whenever she needs to move her body.

At times, his schoolwork has had to be put on hold so he can be with her during often stressful hospital stays.

“There are no ‘rest’ days, I am always one of her carers regardless of how I feel,” he says. "I always have been and always will be and knowing this makes it easier to manage."

The devoted brother is also a qualified WFA (wheelchair football association) referee, a sport at which Ellie excels. She currently plays for Middlesbrough Powerchair Football Club in the Premiership of the national league.

In addition to everyday challenges, William points out that most people don’t realise just how difficult it is for families such as his going out together on day trips or on holiday.

“We have lots of specialist equipment at home, but when we go out we have to plan everything carefully. There has to be wheelchair access and special facilities for her and there is usually a lack of information, which makes planning things and therefore going out very difficult.”

Despite the pressures on his time, William has managed to make time for music and other extracurricular activities alongside his schoolwork.

Having won numerous awards at the Harrogate Music Festival, he plays Piano, French Horn and Guitar and performs with the school’s guitar and brass ensembles and wind band.

Working towards his gold Duke of Edinburgh award, he also enjoys climbing, running and archery and is a young leader in his local Scout troop, volunteering with weekly sessions, events, camps and as a canoeing instructor with the county activity team.

“My biggest highlight would definitely be attending the World Scout Jamboree in South Korea in 2023. This was a great opportunity to explore other cultures and meet Scouts from around the world,” he says.

The busy teenager also works part-time as a milkman six days a week before school, alongside occasionally working with a local pizza van and helping out at a local birds of prey centre.