New Life in Scotland Leads to Outstanding Success for Ukrainian Pupil

Myroslav, who joined Albyn in September 2025, achieved four A grades and one B in his examinations, including A grades in National 5 English, Advanced Higher Maths, Higher Economics and Higher Computing, alongside a B in Higher Physics.

The results mean he has met the conditions of his university offer and will begin studying Mathematics and Computing at the University of Glasgow next month.

Originally from Ukraine, Myroslav came to Scotland through a sponsorship programme, seeking the opportunity to complete his education in a safe and stable environment while pursuing his ambition of studying at a British university.

"I felt really excited when I opened my results," said Myroslav. "I got accepted into the university I really wanted to go to, which is Glasgow. I was nervous beforehand, but I was also confident because I knew I had put the effort in."

For Myroslav, one of his proudest achievements was earning an A in Higher Economics, despite never having studied the subject before arriving in Scotland.

"I struggled in the first term because economics was completely new to me. In Ukraine I had studied economic geography, but never economics as a separate subject. By the second term I had gained more confidence, prepared really well for the exam and it worked out."

Having spent much of his secondary education learning online through the COVID-19 pandemic and later amid the ongoing war in Ukraine, returning to classroom learning was a significant change.

"From eighth grade onwards in Ukraine I studied online. I really missed being in a classroom, interacting with other students and teachers. Learning in person made a huge difference.It was also much easier to make friends."

Myroslav says the welcoming community at Albyn played a huge part in helping him settle into life in Scotland.

"My classmates and teachers really helped me settle into my new environment. All the teachers are so kind and supportive. You always feel you have someone to talk to and someone who wants to help."

He also credits his host family, who sponsored him throughout the year, for making his journey possible.

"I plan to celebrate with my sponsors because they supported me throughout the whole year. Without them, I wouldn't have had this opportunity."

Reflecting on his experience of studying in Scotland, Myroslav said he has valued not only the education itself but also the chance to immerse himself in British life and culture.

"I've improved my English speaking skills, experienced British culture and learned about the traditions and customs here. Studying at a British school has helped me understand how university life will be, and I really like the Scottish education system because students can focus on the subjects that will help them in the future. It’s not like this in Ukraine.”

Motivated by the opportunities available to him, Myroslav remained determined to make the most of every lesson.

"I know many people my age in Ukraine still face barriers to studying because of the war. I was fortunate to be given the opportunity to study here in a safe environment, and I felt I should work hard because it is such a valuable chance in life."

Looking ahead, Myroslav hopes his degree will open doors to international opportunities, with ambitions to work in computing and perhaps even launch his own technology start-up one day.

Lynda Strachan, Deputy Head (Learning & Teaching) said: "Myroslav's story is one of determination, resilience and gratitude. In just one year, he has adapted to a new country, a new education system and a new language, while achieving outstanding academic success. He has embraced every opportunity available to him with humility and dedication, and his achievements are richly deserved. We are incredibly proud of everything he has accomplished during his time at Albyn and wish him every success as he begins this exciting next chapter at the University of Glasgow."

Everyone at Albyn School congratulates Myroslav on his exceptional achievements and wishes him every success for the future.