At the age of five, Robbie Boxall (Franklins, 2014) knew exactly what he wanted to be: a vet. His fascination with animals was clear from the beginning, but it was his time at Ashford School that turned this childhood dream into a career. Today, he reflects on how his experiences at Ashford shaped his future. 

“The staff at Ashford all knew me and my interests,” Robbie says. "Whether that led to a bit of extra discussion in A Level biology or being allowed to do music GCSE by myself out of the option blocks, it seemed that the setup of the school allowed my interests to grow.” 

Robbie's passion for veterinary medicine only grew stronger during his time at Ashford. “My interest in veterinary medicine has been with me since I was about five years old, but A Level biology with Mrs Miller, Mr Curry, Mrs. Towill, and Dr Allen convinced me this was the way for me. A rat dissection ruled an interest in anatomy which has stayed with me,” he recalls. 

Robbie's Ashford experience was well-rounded. As a Music Scholar, he found an important outlet in the school’s music department. “I was in every group I could play the flute in, which gave me the chance to go on trips to Germany, join Mr Green’s guitar ensemble, and go to Paris and the Royal Albert Hall for concerts. My fondest memories of Ashford are in the music department,” he says. These experiences provided a crucial break from academic pressures, allowing Robbie to develop the work-life balance that would serve him well in his university years and beyond. 

While music offered an escape, Robbie’s teachers offered unwavering academic support. “The teaching staff at Ashford could not have been more supportive during my efforts to get into vet school,” he reflects. “Mrs Ludlow giving me extra chemistry help after school and Mrs Miller reading university applications and emailing advice at any time stand out, but I asked most of my teachers for advice at some point, and everyone helped in some way. It felt like they all genuinely cared and wanted us to succeed.” 

Robbie believes that the small classes and close-knit community at Ashford played a critical role in his development. “I’m quite shy and quiet,” he admits. “I have no doubt that in the larger classes at other schools, I would have been lost in the crowd and not pushed myself to achieve my best and get to where I am.” 

Robbie’s gratitude extends not only to his teachers but also to those who made his education possible. As a recipient of a Bursary Award from the Ashford School Foundation, Robbie is deeply appreciative of the opportunities it afforded him. “When I joined Ashford School in Year 7, I was quiet and with little drive to achieve my best. Through my seven years at Ashford School, I grew in confidence and ability. I applied for veterinary school, was accepted, and have now achieved my childhood dream of becoming a vet. I have no doubt that without my Ashford School education, made possible with the bursary fund, I would not be where I am today.” 

Recently, Robbie returned to Ashford School for a photoshoot that highlighted the lifelong value of being a part of the school community. Accompanied by his 6-month-old Wirehaired Visla puppy, Ealhswith, who took to the camera instantly, Robbie had the opportunity to reunite with Mr Curry, his former Biology teacher, and meet current students who share his passion for animals and an aspiration for veterinary science. 

Robbie’s advice to current students is simple: “I would say to just enjoy it and make the most of all the opportunities that are offered; it goes by quickly.” He encourages students to dive into both academics and extracurricular activities, much like he did. “Having hobbies outside of work is important, and Ashford encouraged that from an early stage,” he says. 

Now a practicing veterinarian, Robbie remains thankful for his time at Ashford School: “If you are thinking of donating to the bursary fund, I would like to say thank you. Someone made a gift to the bursary fund which supported me in realising my dream—your donation might change a life too.” 

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