A former Rookwood School pupil has returned to his roots, inspiring current students with his remarkable journey from Andover to international engineering and volunteering success.
Yaviin Jayasoma attended Rookwood from Reception through to Year 11, and while he started as a quiet student, he left the school in 2019 with exceptional GCSE results – five grade 9s, four grade 8s, and one grade 7.
He went on to study at Bishops Grammar School, taking Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Chemistry at A Level, where he achieved three A*s and one A. Yaviin is now studying Mechanical Automotive Engineering at the University of Southampton, on a course that includes both a placement year and a master’s year.
Currently on placement with Fortescue Zero, Yaviin is contributing to an innovative project converting a 70-tonne bulldozer to run on battery power instead of diesel, helping to achieve zero emissions. The role places him at the forefront of engineering solutions focused on sustainability.
His ambition doesn’t stop at engineering. Last year, Yaviin took part in a two-week volunteering project in Uganda, helping to build a playground for local schoolchildren. This summer, he’ll continue his mission in Kenya with Play Action International, transforming a bare school field into a vibrant playground to support education and wellbeing through play.
Yaviin recently returned to Rookwood School to share his story with pupils, offering insights into his academic path, career progress, and his commitment to using his skills to make a positive impact.
To support his upcoming project in Kenya, Yaviin has launched a fundraising campaign via JustGiving.
For more on this inspiring former pupil and his journey from local schoolboy to global changemaker, visit the Rookwood School website or search for his JustGiving campaign online.