A West Leeds teenager who faced family upheaval and the devastating loss of his grandfather has turned his life around, achieving GCSE success while preparing for a career in the British Army.
Kamran, a Year 11 student at Co-op Academy Priesthorpe in Pudsey, experienced significant personal challenges after leaving the family home to live with his grandparents. Shortly afterwards, his grandfather died from cancer, leaving Kamran struggling with grief and disengaging from school.
Recognising the challenges he faced, staff supported Kamran through the academy’s Bridge Alternative Provision, helping him rebuild his confidence, process his loss and successfully return to mainstream education.
Now, following months of determination and hard work, Kamran has achieved six qualifications, including passes in Maths and English, and is preparing to take the next exciting step in his journey with the Army Foundation College, where he will start in March 2027.
Alongside his studies, he has already begun training for selection into the British Army’s Parachute Regiment, undertaking demanding physical preparation with support from academy staff, including a Year 11 Manager with military experience.
Principal Louise Pratt said: “Kamran’s journey is an incredible example of resilience.
“Despite experiencing profound personal loss, he has shown remarkable determination to rebuild his confidence, return to his studies and pursue ambitious goals for the future. We couldn’t be prouder of what he has achieved.”
Kamran hopes to continue his military career after leaving school and is working towards earning the coveted maroon beret.
Well done young man, all the luck in the world
Good for him, we need more young men like that. I wish him all the best for the future, with every success. Well done!