White River, South Africa – February 2025
Uplands is proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of its Matric Class of 2024, as its top-performing students set off to some of the world’s most prestigious universities.
Demonstrating academic excellence and global ambition, Uplands graduates have secured placements at top-tier institutions across Britain, Europe and South Africa, with several students still concluding offers from international universities.
Among the standout students heading to globally ranked institutions are:
- Natasha Bourdin (7 distinctions) – Enrolled at The University of Groningen, Netherlands, a prestigious institution ranked among the Top 100 universities worldwide in both the ARWU Shanghai Ranking and THE World University Rankings.
- Cassandra Mitana– Has already commenced her Pre-Med programme at the Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague. Preparing for entrance exams, she aims to begin her medical studies in October 2025. Reflecting on her experience, Cassandra shares, “This opportunity has been an eye-opening experience, further solidifying my passion for medicine. While I miss the warmth of home, I am excited for the journey ahead and eager to make a meaningful impact in healthcare.”
- Max Östlind (7 distinctions) – Attending Bocconi University in Milan, Italy, one of Europe’s leading business schools, recognised for leadership in economics, finance, and management education.
- Tristan Walker (6 distinctions) – Accepted and enrolled at St Andrew’s University, Scotland, which has been ranked the #1 university in the UK for the second consecutive year (The Guardian University Guide 2024 and The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024). Founded in 1413, St Andrews is renowned for academic excellence, student satisfaction, and world-class education.
Additionally, several Uplands students are finalising offers from prestigious international institutions, further underscoring the school’s success in preparing students for world-class higher education opportunities.
In South Africa, a large group of Uplands graduates have chosen to pursue degrees at leading universities, including Stellenbosch University, the University of the Witwatersrand, North-West University (Potchefstroom), and the University of Pretoria. Impressively, 95% of the Matric Class of 2024 achieved a Bachelor’s pass, reflecting the school’s commitment to academic excellence and student success.
Uplands Head of College, Mr Allan Laing, expressed immense pride in the students’ achievements, stating: “We are thrilled to see our students thriving on both national and international platforms. Their hard work, resilience, and passion for learning have set them on a trajectory for success, and we look forward to seeing them make their mark on the world.”
As the Uplands Matric Class of 2024 embarks on this exciting new chapter, they carry with them the values, curiosity and ambition fostered by their alma mater. Their success is a testament to the school’s dedication to nurturing future leaders, equipped to excel in their chosen fields both at home and abroad.