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An Oxford-bound student whose parents spent two years making daily 70-mile round trips from Darlington to get her to school has said the family's sacrifice was "definitely worth it" after achieving outstanding A-level results.
Annabel Cochrane, 18, earned three As in English literature, history, and German, along with an A in her extended project qualification.
She will now go on to study English and German at Merton College, Oxford.
She said: "I am just overwhelmed and delighted all the hard work has paid off.
"I have never worked so hard for anything.
"Knowing how much effort it took for my family to send me to RGS motivated me to work as hard as I could and get the most out of every experience."
Annabel said the decision to attend Ripon Grammar School's sixth form, and the daily commute, was a family effort.
She said: "Mum and Dad thought it would be the best thing for me, and it is really great for them both now to know that it was definitely worth it.
"It was a good decision."
Describing her routine, she said: "Juggling everything has been tough but really rewarding.
"I’m incredibly grateful to RGS for supporting me throughout such a busy two years."
Her days began at 5am, allowing time for a run or cycle before leaving Darlington at 6.30am.
After a full day of classes and activities, she wouldn’t return home until after 6pm.
Both of Annabel’s parents work full-time as secondary school teachers.
One would drive her to Ripon each morning before heading back to Darlington for work, while the other collected her after school.
Despite the demanding schedule, she passed her driving test this summer after fitting lessons around her demanding schedule.
Annabel contributed to her school community in many ways.
She edited the student magazine The Clocktower, winning the national Terry Mansfield CBE Award for Tomorrow’s Talent.
She also earned a journalism internship with Hearst UK and co-chaired the debating society.
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Outside of academics, she spent six years as principal clarinettist with the Tees Valley Youth Orchestra, participated in school drama and music, tutored GCSE English students, and worked weekends at a local Italian restaurant.
Annabel is now looking forward to starting the next chapter of her education at Oxford.
She said the early mornings, long journeys, and her family’s dedication have all been worth it.