Meera Praises Teacher Support After Outstanding Higher Results

Originally from Malaysia, Meera joined Albyn in 2024 and admits the transition to life in Aberdeen was not a straightforward one. Settling into a new country, a new school and an unfamiliar education system brought challenges, while uncertainty about her family's future in Scotland made it difficult to stay focused at times.

Despite those obstacles, Meera's determination, combined with the support of her teachers, saw her achieve A grades in English, Mandarin, Mathematics, Physics, Biology and Computing.

Like thousands of pupils across Scotland, Results Day began with plenty of nerves…

"I was quite scared in the morning," Meera said. "I'd signed up for the Qualifications Scotland text reminder, but I didn't get the text until almost 9am. I opened my results with my mum, and I was so happy when I saw what I'd achieved."

One result stood out above the rest…

"I am really proud of my Physics result," she said. "I was really struggling with Physics during the year and was getting C grades in the class tests, but I managed to get an A when it really mattered."

Meera says the encouragement and guidance of her teachers played a huge role in helping her succeed.

"Mr Swinton-Blancke and Dr Mackie were a great help. They really supported me throughout the year and helped me improve."

During the school year, Meera faced uncertainty over whether her family would return to Malaysia before her exams.

"It was a rocky start to the year," she explained. "I thought I might be going back to Malaysia before my exams, so it was hard to stay motivated because I wasn't sure whether the exams would matter. I really wanted to achieve the grades I needed, so getting these results means a lot."

Adjusting to her new life in Aberdeen also took time, but Meera says Albyn's welcoming community helped her quickly feel at home.

"Moving from Malaysia to Aberdeen was definitely hard. I was quite awkward when I first joined, but I would have lunch with Ms McKenzie when I first started. She helped me settle in and was so welcoming. The rest of the teachers were too."

Now preparing to enter S6, Meera plans to study Mathematics, Statistics, Higher Economics and Computing before applying to study Actuarial Science at Heriot-Watt University.

For now, though, the celebrations will be spent with those who have supported her every step of the way.

"I'm going to celebrate with a good meal at home with my family."

Congratulating Meera on her achievements, Lynda Strachan, Deputy Head of Albyn School (Learning & Teaching), said:

"These results are a testament not only to Meera's academic ability but also to her resilience and determination. She has shown tremendous growth since joining Albyn and has made the most of every opportunity available to her. We have no doubt she has a very bright future ahead and look forward to seeing all she goes on to achieve.“