Year 13 student and Head Boy Luca has been living in Switzerland for the past decade, joining La Côte International School Aubonne (LCIS) in 2014. He completed his entire secondary education at LCIS, studying the accredited International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme over the past two years.
A soon-to-be graduate as part of our Class of 2021, Luca has recently been offered a place to study International Hospitality Management at the prestigious Swiss university École Hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL) through a four-year Bachelor of Science programme.
As his time at school sadly comes to an end, we ask Luca to reflect on his seven years as part of the LCIS community...
As a 12-year-old boy deciding on what school I wanted to go to in order to complete my secondary education wasn’t an easy choice to make. Meeting new people, having new teachers, making new friends are all aspects to take into consideration when moving schools. I think what attracted me the most about LCIS was the family-like community that there was, and still is, at the school. This warm welcome provided by students and teachers really made me feel at ease and allowed me to experience a smooth transition into LCIS.
The consistent dedication and support provided by all members of staff created a learning environment unique to LCIS. This allowed me to grow not only academically but also as an individual.
Certain experiences also allowed me to develop beyond my comfort zone in a safe and caring space. In my role as Head Boy, I developed my leadership and communication skills and was taught the importance of connecting with the entire LCIS community.
The extracurricular activities and many sporting opportunities have also shaped aspects of my character. They have allowed me to travel across the world and interact with a whole host of individuals I would never otherwise have met, for which I am extremely grateful.
I would like to thank all the staff members for their continuous and unwavering support throughout my academic journey. Managing the workload was particularly challenging for me personally, however the teacher's accessibility allowed me to overcome these challenges. Not only have they educated me, but they have also been a contributing factor in developing my personal character.
Study hard, really get prepared for exam season as every grade matters in the IBDP and reach out to teachers if you’re struggling. They will always help you figure out a solution.
These last few years have been filled with many joyful and cherished memories and the journey would not have been the same, had it not been shared with my fellow classmates and friends. I wish them all the best in the future, knowing full well they shall succeed in whatever they endeavour to do.
“Luca has grown into a diligent, caring, conscientious young person, ready to take on the world,” says Justin Brooks, Pastoral Lead for the IB Diploma Programme. “His work ethic is exemplary and his participation in school wide initiatives throughout his time here has enabled him to develop transferable skills that will be with him for life.”
It’s clear to see from Luca’s journey at LCIS, that our approach to learning goes well beyond ensuring access to university. We are committed to helping our students build the character and confidence required to achieve impressive, unique futures. We provide an engaging and safe learning environment, where opportunities inside and outside the classroom enrich learning, instil memories and create a deep sense of achievement in our students.
On behalf of the LCIS community, we wish Luca the best of luck at EHL and can’t wait to see what the future holds for him!
