Published 20 September 2024
A dedicated and determined pupil at Vale of Leven Academy has secured a prestigious scholarship with the British Army.
Morgan Turnbull, 17, is one of only two students from Scotland to earn the scholarship after standing out in a highly competitive field.
The S6 pupil first learned about the scholarship during a school careers event last year and following this event she committed herself to the rigorous selection process.
Morgan followed a strict training regime to prepare herself and alongside studying for five Highers, she arrived at school early every morning to train for gruelling physical exams.
She then faced a three-day interview in Westbury in front of an Army Officer selection panel where her hard work, resilience and unwavering dedication paid off and secured her the scholarship.
Proud Morgan is particularly looking forward to attending the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst.
She said: “I am from a military family with relatives in the RAF and the Royal Navy, so a military career has been under consideration for the past few years. I am particularly looking forward to attending Sandhurst, as that is often associated with Royal Family, so I am extremely proud and excited.”
She added: “I am so grateful to the Vale of Leven Academy and especially my PE teacher, Mr McPartlane, who has encouraged and supported me. I am looking forward to taking advantage of the opportunities that this appointment will open up for me and I’m sure having attended the prestigious Sandhurst Academy this will absolutely widen my appeal to universities, the military, and beyond.”
Morgan’s PE teacher, Gerry McPartlane, said: “I had the privilege of supporting her through this journey and watching Morgan push herself, balancing the demands of her studies and her training, was testament to her exceptional character. Morgan has not only made our school proud but has set an example for her peers of what can be achieved through determination, commitment and hard work. We are incredibly proud of Morgan and wish her success as she embarks on this exciting scholarship with the British Army.”