AMONG top achievers and GCSE success stories are two remarkable young men who are making a name for themselves in the world of sport.
Cooper Rushen and Charlie Purdy, both 16, attended Plume Academy in Maldon.
Professional speedway rider Cooper, from Tollesbury, began riding motorbikes at the age of six.
Since then, he has claimed 15 British titles, including the under-21 category, and recently competed against adults for the first time.
He said: "It’s been in my blood since I was a little kid.
"I get to travel the world doing what I love. That’s the most important thing."
Last week, he secured fourth place at the 2026 British Speedway Final, which was broadcast on ITV4. He was interviewed on live television.
Cooper said: "It was a good experience, and a way to give back to those people who’ve put me where I am.
"I don’t come from a well-off background, so having their support has meant a lot."
Despite his demanding training and competition schedule, Cooper achieved a grade 6 in business, 5 in French, 5 in physical education, and is awaiting his engineering result.
He said: "It’s obviously been a busy time.
"It’s a relief to know I’ve done the job and got solid grades the whole way through."
Meanwhile, Charlie, from Tiptree, has been signed to Arsenal’s under-18 squad.
"From a young age, it’s been my dream to play for any Premiere League team," he said.
"Football has always been my life."
Charlie travels up to St Albans for training every day, except Sundays.
"I’ve been going there since I was seven years old," he added.
“It’s been hard to balance with school. Now that’s done, I can focus on football."
Charlie achieved grade 6s in maths, English, cooking, and PE, as well as a grade 5 in business.
"I kind of just wanted to pass everything," he added.
Having succeeded with their academic studies, both young men look forward to following their dreams.
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