UCAS Reference
Applicant: Benjamin
Mark Mills
Referee: Mr M J
Bridle
Ben joined
Ben is an impressive young man; a statement clarified and confirmed
repeatedly by the teachers and students alike, all who hold him in the greatest
esteem. His natural flair and ability is evident within all his academic
studies and has allowed him to excel across the board. He is a hugely talented
student whose gifting is amplified and reinforced by his hard work and
personality.
His strengths of character and gifting are exhibited
throughout the subjects he studies, whether logical, linguistic or literary. This
consistency has led to his exemplary performance throughout his education as a
student who loves to learn, to debate, to understand and further his knowledge.
Yet he is far from merely a theoretical thinker. He has shown he can work with
others as a team member, but also as a leader. He does this without dominating
proceedings; happy to help others in a way that supports them without
belittling; listening well and allowing others to take an equal role. The
practical skills demonstrated in his Physics and Chemistry courses are first-rate
and he has shown not only an ability to manipulate and analyse data, but also to
effectively and efficiently use equipment, completing the most complex of tasks.
Ben’s written work is well thought through, displaying good imaginative
approaches to problem solving and even using humour to explain complex points.
His ability to draw conclusions and use analogies and examples shows his
ability to think laterally as well as making the conceptually difficult a great
deal more palatable.
It is within the area of discussion and verbal reasoning
that Ben particularly begins to shine. He is very articulate and is well read
with a thirst for knowledge. He is a great linguist whose knowledge of both
modern and ancient languages is impressively present within his dialogues and
explanations. Rather than a student of science, he is someone who thinks science. His analytical and
thoughtful mind questions and evaluates almost constantly. He has an
understanding and a maturity beyond his years, which blended with a
philosophical and inquisitive approach make him an excellent scientist. Ben’s
desire to understand why is not just confined to the classroom as many of the intricate
conversations take place with peers and members of staff in an informal setting.
A deep thinker of such high achievements, Ben’s potential weakness could be
arrogance. However, his intellectual ability is shrouded with humility and
patience. He is always willing to listen to the opinions of others and takes
them on board as he thinks things through. This is exemplified by his approach
to planning his course choices. He sought the guidance of those he trusted;
researching his options thoroughly and making a very good choice of course
although he is in the position of being well suited to a range of directions. His
personality and great character ensures that although determined he is maturing
with confidence and an understanding of himself and those around him.
Outside of the classroom, Ben is just as active with
non-academic pursuits. He is undertaking his Duke of Edinburgh award at gold level
and accompanied a school group to
A charming and friendly young man, he has time for people
with a sense of realism and thankfulness. He is a confidant to his friends,
sensitive to his surroundings and has a great sense of humour. He knows how to
have fun as well as work at the highest level. Ben is a student of the highest
calibre who will contribute so much to university life, both academic and
social. I consider it a privilege to have known and taught Ben and it is based
on my knowledge of the man, not just his ability, that I fervently recommend
his application to study Natural Sciences at degree level.