World Class 2012 in partnership with the British Council bring you the stories of the schools where the dreams begin.

Plymouth College

SCHOOL STATS Number of students - 540 Number of teachers - 68-70 Where in the world? Devon, England Years Achieng attended: 2009 - 2010

Located in the south west of England, close to the Devon coast, Plymouth College is one of the top swimming school's in the country and has an elite programme with many students striving to become Olympians.

"Work hard, play hard", is the schools mantra, says Deputy Head, Sarah Dunn, and the school prides itself on being able to successfully mix academics with extra-curricular activities.

"We would like our kids to grasp everything there is to offer," she said.

Achieng at Plymouth College A shining future ahead of her awaits. What a talent! Deputy Head, Sarah Dunn

Achieng at Plymouth College

Achieng left Plymouth College at the end of 2009/10 academic year and even though she only attended the school for two years, she was seen as a great role model around the school.

Sarah Dunn, who also taught Achieng Biology, told us how Achieng's abilities in the pool were also matched in the classroom.

"She is a very bright girl who will excel in her GCSE and A levels. She is highly articulate, quick to process new concepts and has tremendous clarity of thought which she is keen to share in class discussions".

Class Olympians

Achieng and Tom surfing in Plymouth

The Olympics are high on the minds of everyone at Plymouth College as they hope many athletes will be going for gold in London and there's one very famous face leading the way.

World Champion Diver Tom Daley still attends Plymouth College and was a close friend and classmate of Achieng. The whole school are supporting Achieng, Tom and their other athletes as they progress towards London 2012.

World Olympic Dreams

Achieng is one of the athletes being tracked as London 2012 approaches and they strive to make their Olympic dreams a reality.

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