At King William’s College (KWC), we are proud to partner with the Isle of Man – St Vincent and The Grenadines Education Programme (ISEP), an Isle of Man registered charity founded in the aftermath of the eruption of La Soufrière volcano. The programme is dedicated to supporting educational opportunities for young people in St. Vincent and The Grenadines.
Kayla, the first recipient of the ISEP Scholarship, joined KWC in September 2023 from St. Vincent and the Grenadines, a country still recovering from the devastating effects of the volcanic eruption.
Here, Kayla shares her experience in her own words:
“In October of 2023, I embarked on what has been the most dynamic, transformative, and rewarding experience of my life. From the moment I stepped into the girls’ boarding house at KWC, I was met with warmth, patience, and kindness.
Boarding life was an entirely new experience for me, however, I quickly found a sense of belonging thanks to my house mother, supportive roommate and the friendships I formed. The boarding community at KWC is more than just a residence; it’s a family. Whether sharing conversations in the kitchen, enjoying Thursday hot chocolate nights or exploring the capital, I soon realised I had found a home away from home.
Academically, transitioning to the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme was a significant challenge. I found its interdisciplinary approach both exciting and overwhelming. Subjects like Design and Technology and Theory of Knowledge were unfamiliar, and the workload, including the Extended Essay and CAS projects, pushed me beyond my comfort zone. Despite the demands, the IB has shaped me into a more well-rounded student, equipping me with invaluable critical thinking, research and problem-solving skills that will benefit me in all aspects of life.
Beyond academics, KWC offers endless opportunities, from competitions and events to a wide range of extracurricular activities. I have enjoyed cultural celebrations, advocacy competitions, and inter-house events, but my personal favourite has been the debating society, which has been the highlight of my year.
One of the most touching moments for me was when I fell ill and was hospitalised, faculty members, students and the principal showed immense care, reinforcing the school’s strong sense of community and support.
Reflecting on my time here, I am deeply grateful to Professor T. Cullen and ISEP for making this journey possible. With an enriching education and invaluable experiences already behind me, I eagerly anticipate my final year at KWC.”
Kayla’s experience exemplifies what this scholarship represents and the opportunities it provides. We look forward to welcoming future recipients who will continue to enrich our diverse school community. The selection process for the 2024-2026 recipient is now underway, offering another deserving student the chance to benefit from the high-quality education and supportive environment we offer at KWC.
