Where are they now?

Welcome to the first in our series of pages profiling the progress of former Davenport Lodge School pupils.

Seetha Muthalagappan, now studying medicine at Imperial College London tells us about her time at Davenport, and what she's been up to since.

"I attended Davenport Lodge from 1992-1997, and then King Henry VIII School/ Sixth Form from 1997-2008. During my time at Davenport Lodge, I really enjoyed being part of the school community; not only did I make good progress academically, but I learnt a lot outside my studies. I formed many friendships at DLS, and I am still in contact with quite a few of my friends and teachers from there. Davenport Lodge gave me the opportunity to develop essential skills such as teamwork, organisation and communication through activities such as ballet, speech and drama and sports days.

At King Henry VIII, I achieved A grades in Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Latin A level, and secured an offer to study medicine at Imperial College London. Whilst at King Henry VIII, I participated in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award; for the service section of my award, I helped out at Davenport Lodge's aftercare and during lunch breaks, on a weekly basis. I felt very comfortable volunteering at Davenport Lodge, not only because I had been a pupil there before, but because all the staff were very friendly and welcoming. It was a fantastic experience working with and understanding children of different ages; it further developed my interpersonal skills - something which is not only vital for a career in medicine, but also useful in everyday life.

I have just finished the first year of my degree and have thoroughly enjoyed all the challenges I was presented (both academic and non-academic!). My hobbies include music and sport. Music-wise, I have been playing the piano for ten years and achieved my Grade 7 before leaving school. At King Henry VIII, I participated in approximately fifteen orchestral (violin) and choral concerts, and also helped with the organisation of annual House Music Competitions.

Horse-riding and badminton are sports I've played since I was 12/ 13 years old; I find these sports are an excellent way to relax and de-stress. I have maintained my interest in these hobbies whilst at Imperial, and I am now on the committees for both the Music Society and the Athletics Society.