Aspiring doctor from Harrogate says her exam success is down to 'stability at Ripon Grammar School'

A determined Ripon student who coped with ten house moves both in the UK and overseas throughout her childhood has provided one of the most impressive individual stories from A level results day.

Showing that no amount of upheaval could stand in the way of her dreams, Jessica Forbes-Bell, 18, from Ripon, celebrated outstanding A-level success as she prepares to begin a medical degree at the University of Edinburgh this autumn, fulfilling her long-held ambition to become a doctor.

Born in Harrogate, Jessica’s childhood was shaped by frequent moves across the UK and overseas because of her father’s work as a strategic consultant.

She attended two primary schools and two secondary schools throughout the UK, spending a year at middle school in Toronto, Canada, before moving to Ripon in 2021 to join Ripon Grammar School in Year 9.

She achieved two As and an A in biology, chemistry, maths and biology, alongside and A in her extended project qualification (EPQ).

Jessica believes the stability she found at Ripon Grammar School was instrumental in helping her achieve her ambitions.

"The school gave me consistent support and always provided someone to talk to when things became overwhelming,” she said.

“The sixth form team in particular has been amazing.

"They challenged me academically while also providing fantastic pastoral support.

“Ripon Grammar School has given me stability after moving around so much throughout my childhood.

"I’ve also found lifelong friends here, which had been difficult in the past because I was always moving.”

Alongside her studies, Jessica balanced a range of responsibilities and leadership roles.

She served as Head of the school’s Healthcare Society, helping to support and inspire younger students interested in careers in medicine and healthcare.

Outside school, Jessica works as a football referee for Ripon Panthers and as a part-time receptionist at North House Surgery.

During Year 12, she also played football for Ripon Ladies, demonstrating her commitment to both sport and her local community while managing the demands of A-level study.

Jessica is now looking forward to beginning the next chapter of her education - with a move to Scotland.