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The Gateway Learning Community

The Gateway Learning Community

All Different: All Equal
Together, Improving Upon Our Best

Meet the Head Boy and Girl and their Deputies


Meet the Head Boy and Head Girl

Emmanuel Opoku-Agyemang – Head Boy

As Head Boy, I strive to embody the core values of our Academy through hard work, resilience, and a determined commitment to my goals. I take pride in being an active member of our school community, as well as in our wider partnership within the Gateway Learning Community (GLC), where we frequently collaborate with other schools to strengthen inter-school connections. I am someone who holds myself to high standards, constantly seeking opportunities for growth—both personally and academically.

My interests are varied and enriching. Reading is one of my favourite pastimes; it offers a rare opportunity to relax while gaining knowledge. I also have a deep passion for sport, particularly rugby, which I find exhilarating and character-building. In addition, I play both the piano and the guitar—creative outlets that stimulate my mind and provide a welcome balance to my academic pursuits. I also find peace in nature, which I value greatly for its calming and grounding qualities, and I feel strongly about the importance of protecting the natural world.

I consider myself a strong and reliable leader. I take the initiative to prioritise my learning and firmly believe that discipline and consistency are fundamental to success. As a high-achieving Year 11 student, my academic performance reflects a great deal of resilience and mental determination. I actively contribute to numerous school and community-based committees, which have played a crucial role in developing my leadership capabilities. Through these responsibilities, I have gained experience in managing tasks, overcoming unexpected challenges, meeting deadlines, and working collaboratively—all while maintaining strong academic performance.

Looking ahead, I am committed to fostering a warm and inclusive environment where students feel encouraged to grow academically and emotionally. I want every student to feel a sense of belonging and to realise that their potential is limitless. You will often see members of the Student Leadership Team around the Academy—we encourage you to engage with us, as it is a fantastic opportunity to gain new skills, share ideas, and become more involved in shaping our school community.

Gavriella Nyani – Head Girl

From a young age, I have been recognised as someone with an ambitious and inquisitive spirit—perhaps even over ambiguous at times. I seize every opportunity to involve myself in new experiences, whether that be through athletics, writing novels, reading literature, baking, or competing in board games. My interests span far and wide, including a deep appreciation for international cuisines and an adventurous enthusiasm for extreme sports—one day, I hope to go bungee jumping or skydiving. Despite my wide-ranging passions, my long-term aspiration is to become a dentist, a goal inspired by my enduring interest in biology. Above all, my family have been my greatest source of motivation, constantly reminding me that no goal is beyond reach.

I believe that my drive for excellence has shaped me into a capable and dedicated leader. Through my role as co-leader of Aspiration and by working alongside other Head Pupils across the GLC, I have learnt to make effective decisions under pressure, delegate responsibilities strategically, and support the personal development of others by recognising their individual strengths. These experiences have equipped me with a deep understanding of collaborative leadership and the importance of fostering growth in those around me.

One of my core goals as Head Girl is to empower students to break through the invisible barrier of self-doubt and underestimation. I want to help shift the mindset that limitations define us. Too often, students believe they are incapable of success due to perceived weaknesses. I aim to change that narrative by encouraging a culture of resilience and possibility, where students see challenges as opportunities for growth rather than roadblocks.

During tutor time, I would love for students to share their own ideas on how I can support them better. This is our school, and it should be a place where every voice matters. I invite you to pass your suggestions on through your tutors—your input is vital, and I am here to ensure that your ideas are heard, valued, and acted upon.

 

Meet the Deputy Head Boy and Girl

AJ Adewumi  Deputy Head Boy

I am a well-rounded individual with a strong passion for sport, creativity, and community involvement. I swim competitively for Thurrock at Blackshots and play rugby for the Thurrock Rugby Club, in addition to representing our school’s athletics team. These commitments have taught me the importance of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. I also enjoy digital creativity, particularly editing, which allows me to express myself and engage with media in innovative ways.

I believe I am a great leader because I consistently serve as a positive role model to others and care deeply about the wellbeing of everyone in our school community. I am reliable, approachable, and someone people can depend on. One of my core ambitions is to strengthen the sense of unity across the school and ensure that all students feel supported and included.

If given the opportunity, I would like to implement several initiatives that would positively impact the Academy. I believe that students who show exceptional progress and academic achievement should receive more recognition. I would also like to introduce a peer mentoring programme for younger students who may be struggling—offering them guidance and support from those with experience. Additionally, I would love to see the return of the Gateway Games, which help foster community spirit across schools, and I would work to further improve our school environment so that it is a place we are all proud of.

Students are encouraged to share what matters to them through classroom suggestion boxes, ideas walls, or even one-on-one conversations. I will also make an effort to visit assemblies and classrooms to ensure everyone has the opportunity to contribute to decision-making. This is your school, and your voice matters.

Kara Meade – Deputy Head Girl

I am a passionate and driven individual who balances academic responsibilities with a wide range of extracurricular interests. I play football at a competitive level, representing West Ham U16s PA and Billericay U18s, and I find that the discipline and teamwork involved in the sport have strengthened my leadership and communication skills. I also have a strong creative streak, with a deep love for Art and Design & Technology, which ties into my ambition to pursue a career in interior design. Additionally, I proudly volunteer at the Orsett Show, contributing both on the day of the event and behind the scenes, which has taught me the value of community service and hard work.

As a leader, I am dependable, organised, and an effective communicator. I work well within teams and am confident when expressing ideas. I always aim to put the needs of the school first, ensuring that I contribute positively to the school’s development. I pride myself on being approachable, patient, and a good listener—qualities that I believe are essential in representing the student voice.

One of my key priorities is to continue developing and promoting the girls’ football team. I want to focus on not only building skill and performance but also enhancing team spirit and visibility across the Academy. Additionally, I am passionate about ensuring that no student feels isolated or unheard. I want to be a representative for all, advocating for those who feel overlooked. I also hope to lead initiatives that celebrate and empower young women, such as hosting events in recognition of International Women’s Day.

Students can always approach me with their ideas, concerns, or suggestions. I am committed to listening to each of you and ensuring that your voices contribute meaningfully to school life. Whether it’s a small idea or a major concern, I’m here to represent you.

Meet the Team: