Francesca: Philosophy and Theology at Durham University

Francesca G. was one of Sedbergh School’s top-performing pupils in the 2026 A-level results, achieving AAA alongside an A* in her Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). She will now take up her first-choice place at Durham University to study Philosophy and Theology.

Francesca joined Sedbergh in Year 10 and had already developed an interest in Philosophy and Theology before arriving. During her time at School, that interest became a clear academic pathway, while support from her teachers, the experience of overcoming setbacks and life within the boarding community helped her develop greater confidence in her own abilities.

Here, Francesca reflects on her results, the people and experiences that shaped her time at Sedbergh, and why Durham felt like the right next step.

How did you feel when you saw your results?

I was initially disappointed with my results as I was hoping for some higher marks, but since I knew I had met my firm offer, it was OK.

You’re heading to Durham University to study Philosophy and Theology. What are you most looking forward to about that next step?

I’m looking forward to learning more about a subject I have a passion for and hopefully getting better at it. I’m also looking forward to the college system and freedom at university, which is what attracted me to Durham initially.

I’ve always had an interest in both Philosophy and Theology, so being able to focus solely on this is something I’m looking forward to.

Looking back, what do you think helped you grow academically at Sedbergh?

My mock result in History and my coursework were a challenge for me this year, and I wasn’t getting the grades that I needed for Durham. Both of my History teachers were supportive and helpful in improving my grade and my confidence, which led to me feeling determined to put in the work to revise over Easter. That definitely helped to improve my grade.

I also think that, at the end of Year 12, I started to change my mindset and build more belief in my own abilities. That was helpful entering Year 13, which is a difficult year with applications to university, mocks and then exams.

What has full boarding given you academically or personally that you think will stay with you after Sedbergh?

Boarding life has been one of my favourite parts about Sedbergh. Being able to come back from what may have been a stressful or hard day at School and then be surrounded by your best friends definitely helped me to relax and reset.

I think I will take that with me to university: being able to switch off from something that may be stressful or challenging and surround myself with people who uplift you and who you have fun with.

Has Sedbergh’s setting influenced your education, independence or sense of perspective in any way?

The setting that Sedbergh is in, surrounded by the fells, definitely lends itself to running. Although when I joined I didn’t enjoy doing it, the culture that Sedbergh has of giving everything a go, and the fact that everyone around you — your friends and teachers — is doing it, definitely changed my attitude.

The approach that Sedbergh encourages when trying something new or difficult, like running or outdoor adventure activities, is definitely something to bring to the classroom. Approaching work that may be difficult or take time, but having the correct attitude, is something that I think the landscape has influenced in my perspective.

Who or what at Sedbergh has had the greatest influence on you?

I think my friends have definitely influenced me the most at School. Jemima [Head of School] became a good friend when I joined in Year 10, and she has always motivated me to work hard and have the confidence to try new experiences.

It has always been valuable to have a friend alongside me who understood the pressures of School life and encouraged me through exams, revision, university applications and sport. She has always pushed me to work hard, make the most of opportunities, and remember to be kind and enjoy the experience too.

How did you arrive at Philosophy and Theology at Durham as your next step?

Durham wasn’t necessarily always my plan, but it was always somewhere I thought I would like to go. Studying Philosophy and Theology, however, had been my plan before I joined Sedbergh in Year 10.

Although I initially looked at other universities, I feel, looking back, that Durham, like Sedbergh, offers the perfect balance of sport, academics and having fun.

I never strayed from wanting to study Philosophy and Theology because I was always interested in the way the two subjects intertwine and how they relate to modern society.

When you look back on Sedbergh in a few years’ time, what do you think you will remember most?

I think I will remember most the life in the boarding house, which is something distinctive about Sedbergh, and also the people who I have met coming here and the atmosphere that Sedbergh has, which is created by people with hard work and determination.