In the year 2022, Ashford Academy was a brand-new school. The buildings were fresh, the fields were new, and there were not many students yet. I was there on the very first day, feeling both excited and a little bit nervous about what lay ahead. Today, I am in my final year at this wonderful school. Looking back at the past few years, I am so proud of how much the school has grown and how much I have grown alongside it. I have worked very hard during my time here, and I was recently appointed as the school’s Vice Head Boy. This is a big responsibility, and I am very happy to lead my fellow students.
My journey at Ashford Academy has been shaped by my deep love for sports, especially football. Football is not just a hobby for me; it is my absolute favourite game in the world. I love the feeling of running on the pitch and working with my teammates. Ashford gave me the perfect place to play, and I was chosen as captain of the school football team. Leading the team has been an amazing experience. Our hard work paid off last year when we played in the ISAZ U16 tournament. We played our best and won the entire championship. Lifting that trophy with my team was a moment I will never forget.
While football is my first love, Ashford has also taught me to play many other sports. The school encourages all of us to try new things and improve our skills. This year, I focused on playing tennis. It was a big challenge, but my sports coach, Mr Phiri, helped me every single day. He is an excellent coach who always believed in me, even when the games were tough. Thanks to his training and advice, I made history this year. I became the first student from Ashford Academy ever to reach the ISAZ tennis semi-finals. I am extremely grateful to Mr Phiri for helping me reach this goal.
Living at the school has also been a huge part of my life. I am a boarding student, and I live in Desmond Hostel. Living away from home can be difficult, but Desmond Hostel quickly became a second home to me. I enjoy the friendship and the fun times we share in the hostel. I want to say a big thank you to our house parents, Mr Chinyanta and Mr Munyenyembe. They always guide us, keep us safe, and make sure we are doing our best. I also want to thank our supportive matron for always caring for us, and our wonderful chefs who cook delicious and warm food for us every single day.
When I first walked through the gates of Ashford Academy in 2022, I was just a young boy starting a new adventure. Now, as I prepare to graduate in my final year, I am leaving as a leader, a strong athlete, and a better person. I will always carry the lessons I learned here with me. Thank you, Ashford Academy, for everything.