Lara attends Oxford University

Lara was one of the three students who achieved a perfect 45 score in her IB last year. We looked at how Lara achieved a perfect score and in turn, a place at Oxford University.

1. Focus on what you love

When BISS Puxi interviewed Janet, Lara’s Mum, we asked if it was always her plan for Lara to attend Oxford.

Janet’s secret was not for her to push for an Oxford place but to create an open environment that helped Lara find her own motivation. Janet emphasised the importance of communicating regularly with Lara, guiding her and helping her focus on what she loves doing. That approach from the family, combined with our BISS Puxi teachers' targeted guidance, created an environment where Lara became a curious, self-motivated and independent learner. These qualities help students attain top scores and places at top universities such as Oxford in the UK, Yale in the US or KAIST in South Korea.

2. Aim to make a difference

Many students that excel have a bigger vision of what they want to achieve. BISS Puxi’s Be Ambitious philosophy provides a platform for future leaders with the intellect and ambition to make a difference in the world. Our students grow to be ambitious for themselves and focus on what they want to achieve.

3. Develop an International Perspective

Lara is inspired by international affairs and developed an understanding and empathy for the challenges and people around the world. As world leaders negotiate the future of our planet at GOP26 in Glasgow this week, we can reflect on what we need from our future leaders. The ability to listen, empathize and influence will continue to be highly desirable skills that will serve Lara and the world she creates in the future.

4. Stay on track at BISS

Lara stayed with us for 14 years, giving her the security and consistency in education in our Primary, Secondary and our prestigious IB Academy. Our teachers knew Lara very well as guided her through the curriculum and helped her excel.