Portfolio / 2026
Ollie
Buckthorpe.
My projects span software, engineering and business. I begin with a question. This then becomes something I can test, improve and put in front of people.
Four projects · software · hardware · business
Four projects that I have done.
Now / Gap year
Taking a gap year.
I am currently taking a gap year out of study between secondary school and university. It has given me the opportunity to keep building Upshow, learn independently and take responsibility for my own time.
Alongside my projects, football, education and work have taught me how to communicate with people, make decisions and follow through on what I have committed to.
Captain / First XI
Captain of the First XI.
I was captain of my School First XI football team and the U18 Allied Counties team, which gave me experience as a leader and taught me what it means to be responsible for other people. It also taught me how to work as part of a team, make decisions under pressure and keep standards up when things do not go to plan.
Refereeing for three years has also taught me how to resolve conflict across people of all ages and to trust my decisions.
A-levels + EPQ
Evidence and models.
I achieved an A* in Physics and my EPQ (Extended Project Qualification), and an A in Maths and Chemistry. It is an interesting mix of subjects which I believe sets me up well for the real world. Maths gives me the skills to use data to reach conclusions, and chemistry and physics teaches me how to model complex systems by breaking them down into smaller components.
My EPQ was on manned hypersonic air travel. Researching a technology at the extremes of human capability made me question the ideas and backing behind it. At the end of my research I had to create a 3000 word essay evaluating the feasibility of manned hypersonic air travel in the US military before 2050 as well as making a 10 minute presentation on my findings. Working on a project by myself taught me how to work independently, create balanced arguments, assess sources and come to conclusions that I can back up with facts.
Being a leader of the Chemistry Society also developed my ability to turn an academic interest into an engaging presentation that others can learn from and enjoy. We were quite successful, presenting to 20 of the top chemistry students in Sixth Form across multiple disciplines. Organising talks from previous students in industry gave me good experience in both organising events and interpersonal communications with respected individuals. Some of the alumni included PhD students studying next generation solar power as well as Microsoft employees studying how AI can be used in chemistry to create medicines and new compounds.
Costa / bookkeeping
Working with people.
A role as a Barista taught me how to speak to people of all different ages and backgrounds and find common ground. Invoicing and bookkeeping since a young age required reliability and accuracy. Together, they have shown me the importance of customer service, accuracy and confidence.