Straight As take Jack from Lesmahagow HS to Oxford

Jack McIntyre aced his exams, amassing one of Scotland’s most impressive set of results, and is about to start a masters degree in physics at Oxford University.

And of the 17-year-old’s 17 As, 15 of them were in the very top band, making him one of the highest achievers in Scotland.

Jack is the first in his family to go to university but remains humble about that pioneering achievement.

He said: “I’ve always had an interest in science and knew by first year that it was physics that really excited me, so I had a look for courses that I wanted to do and realised in fifth year that Oxford was my ultimate goal.”

In fourth year, he sat national fives in physics, chemistry, computing, English and history and his higher maths a year early, achieving As.

In fifth year, he got As in higher history, higher English, higher chemistry, higher computing, higher physics and an advanced higher in maths.

And in sixth year, he sat advanced higher physics and chemistry and higher human biology, and he taught himself advanced higher statistics and advanced higher mathematics of mechanics.

“I worked hard with the school to make sure that I passed the statistics and maths of mechanics courses,” he said.

“These are not subjects that are taught at the school, so it was a lot of hard work to do it at home, but I was delighted that I managed to secure As.”

He also passed an entrance exam to secure his place at Oxford.

He said: “When I got to Oxford, I immediately knew it was where I wanted to study.

“It was everything I’d imagined and more. I know it’s somewhere I think I will fit in and hopefully do well.”

And Jack added: “I have mixed feelings about starting at Oxford.

“I’m excited but a bit tentative about moving way from Lesmahagow. I’ve lived here all my life and it’s such a small community it will be completely different to life at Oxford. But I’m ready for the challenge.”

New Lesmagahow High School headteacher, Richard McGowan said: “Jack is an outstanding student with a natural gift for learning which he shared with all those around him. He was a constant inspiration to his peers who appreciated his willingness to help others.

“His achievements in SQA examinations are extraordinary- there can be few pupils in the country who can claim such a haul of top awards.

“Lesmahagow High School is extremely proud of Jack’s considerable achievements, and we know his ability and drive will stand him in good stead as he goes forward to study for a Master of Physics at Oxford University.”

His thought are mirrored by Jack’s guidance teacher, Linda Wright, who has worked with him since first year.

She said: “We all recognised Jack’s talents soon after he came to school and we realised that he was something special.

“He worked very hard but what is most impressive is how much he cared for everyone else in the school. He leaves behind a legion of fans and people that are very, very proud of him and wish him all the best in his next adventure.”