Yahoo News Newcastle student who lost 'remarkable' mum weeks before A Level exams going to Cambridge with A*s
A Newcastle student has secured a place at one of the world's top universities, after tragically losing her mum just weeks before she sat her A Level exams.
Dame Allan's Schools pupil Francesca Morgan joined the sixth form in Fenham only months before her late mother and greatest supporter Faustina, who guided her home-schooling until GCSE level, was diagnosed with lung cancer. For Francesca, A Level results day was bittersweet as she knew her mum would be "immensely proud" of her outstanding grades.
The 18-year-old achieved four A* grades in Physics, Chemistry, Maths and Further Maths, together with an A* in the Extended Project Qualification, and will now go on to read Natural Sciences at the University of Cambridge. Faustina, who moved from Malaysia to the UK in her early twenties, learned of her daughter's offer from the prestigious university before her untimely passing in April this year.
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Celebrating with friends and family at the Newcastle-based independent school, Francesca said: "My mum was so happy when my hard work earned me an offer from Cambridge, and I know she is immensely proud.
"She was a truly remarkable person. In education specifically, she had the biggest influence on me and my sister. She dedicated herself to fostering a great relationship with us, teaching us the values of faith, hard work, honesty and resilience."
Francesca was home-educated with great support from her mother for eight years, achieving nine GCSEs with top grades 9s and 8s. She completed her first GCSE in Mandarin in 2017 at just 11 years old.
Looking ahead to the future, Francesca said she is both excited and reflective as she prepares to leave Newcastle for the first time. "Moving away from home is a big step for anyone, but particularly so in my circumstances," she said. "I am very much looking forward to the academic rigor and challenge of being taught by the leading researchers in the world at university."
Will Scott, Principal at Dame Allan’s Schools, said: "Francesca's achievements are nothing short of extraordinary, especially considering the challenging circumstances she faced. Her resilience, determination, and academic excellence have been truly inspiring.
"She has not only excelled in her studies but also demonstrated incredible strength of character. We are immensely proud of her accomplishments and confident that she will continue to shine at Cambridge and beyond."
