The 2024 ISEP Scholar-Luca

Luca Roberts receives Lower Sixth Theory of Knowledge Prize from Founders' Day Guest of Honour, Dot Tilbury. Dot is a legendary figure in the Isle of Man for her role in nurturing young cyclists including Sir Mark Cavendish

Luca Roberts is the second ISEP scholar from St Vincent and the Grenadines to be selected to attend King William's College to study for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma on a scholarship which started in September 2024. Luca had a successful first year, enjoying his transition to KWC and has integrated exceedingly well both socially and academically, actively participating in many extra curricular endeavours including music and sports as well as achieving the highest honours in his year for two of his subjects. Luca is a student who exemplifies a blend of successful cultural integration with academic rigour. We are looking forward to great things from our 2024 scholar.

An update from Luca (June 2025)

 

Hello! My name is Luca Roberts, and I’m currently wrapping up my first year of sixth form at King William’s College on the Isle of Man. This chapter of my life began thanks to the ISEP programme — a unique scholarship exchange between the Isle of Man and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. It was an incredible opportunity that brought me across the ocean and into a world that was entirely new.
 
This was my very first time living in another country — and more than that, it was the first time I had to navigate life independently. No family nearby, no familiar faces, and definitely no Caribbean sunshine! The weather here was a major adjustment. I’ve always been sensitive to the cold, and those early days of frosty mornings and chilly winds were a genuine struggle. Still, I learned to layer up and power through.
 
Academically, the school system took some getting used to. It felt more structured and familiar to high school rather than college back home. At first, I found it a bit confusing, but I soon adapted. What stood out most, though, was the diversity of people around me. I was surrounded by students from all walks of life — each with their own cultures, habits, and perspectives. It was overwhelming at times, but it also taught me a lot about understanding others and growing beyond my comfort zone.
 
Beyond academics, my time here has been filled with memorable experiences. I’ve done things I never imagined — like watching fireworks on the promenade, being swept up in the roar and excitement of the TT races, and even trying indoor rock climbing. Boarding life came with its own adventures too: the silliness of our “Olympics,” late-night football games at 9 PM, and spontaneous walks and deep chats with people I now call friends.
 
Now, as I look toward the final stretch of the IB, I can honestly say the work itself isn’t the hardest part — it’s the juggling of everything that’s the real challenge. Managing deadlines, activities, and expectations can feel like a balancing act. But I’m determined to make the most of this experience. My plan? To keep learning, keep growing, and seize every opportunity that comes my way.
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