Audrey achieved the A-Level grades that she needed to study English Literature at Durham University.

Audrey joined King's Ely Sixth Form in Year 12 from a school in Macau, China, which is where she is from.

Audrey, pictured on the right, studied English Literature, History, and Classical Civilisation for her A-Levels. She also completed an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), titled: 'To what extent does nature shape and inspire Greek Mythology?’

We caught up with Audrey after she received her A-Level results to find out more about her King's experience and what her next steps are...

Audrey, what career path do you plan on pursuing?

I am still exploring my options, but I am currently leaning towards a career in either publishing or academia.  

What is the quality and style of teaching like at King’s?

My teachers were remarkably encouraging and supportive, actively nurturing my curiosity and making learning genuinely enjoyable. They demonstrated immense patience with me and my peers, always welcoming our questions and repeating anything we did not understand.  

My Classics Teachers, Dr Knox, Ms Tyrrell, Mr Atkinson and Dr Oliver, each had different ways of teaching that made the lessons fun and engaging but also educational and informative. Considering that I had never even heard of this subject before joining King’s, it is truly remarkable how much I learnt.  

Mr Currie, Mrs Jackson and Mr Thomas were also interesting to learn from, despite my initial struggles with History. It was their encouragement and affirmation that enabled me to gradually get the hang of History and eventually enjoy the subject. 

My English Teachers, Dr Gabelman, Mr Brown and Mrs Pienaar, are all responsible for cementing my decision to study Literature at University. I did not think I could love this subject more than I already do, but thanks to their teaching, my passion and interest has grown in leaps and bounds. I am especially grateful to Dr Gabelman, who not only took time out of his limited day to help me prepare for the Cambridge University interview, but also taught me the importance of having a more optimistic mindset when it comes to success and failure.  

It was truly a privilege to learn under all of these teachers. 

What else did you participate in during your time at King’s?

I worked backstage for the school’s production of ‘Guys and Dolls’ and was involved in the Theatre Tech Club, which was a fantastic learning experience and provided great insight into the behind-the-scenes facet of Drama productions. Deciding to expand my horizons, I also dabbled in learning Ancient Greek from Dr Oliver, and picked up Tennis as a new sport, which I thoroughly enjoyed. In terms of my existing interests, I attended History Cafes, Round Table Lectures, Classical Symposiums, and joined the English Literature Club, which advanced my understanding in these areas. 

Do you feel that you have been well supported pastorally at King’s?

Yes, especially during high-pressured times like the A-Level exam period. Because I tend to overstress, my Housemistress, Mrs Jackson, Miss Armstrong, and our Matron, Hailey, kept an eye on me. They always knew when I was taking things too far, frequently prying me away from my desk and insisting I took a walk to clear my head. While I may have grumbled out loud about their intervention at the time, I was (and remain) secretly grateful for their watchful care! 

What will you miss most about King’s and what did you enjoy most during your time here?

What I will miss most are the quiet moments, specifically the little chats and inside jokes I shared with my evening tutors during prep. Those interactions were a wonderful way to share a laugh, decompress, and get grounded advice. 

In what ways do you think King’s is unique or special compared to other schools?

I think King’s stands out for its inclusivity. Rather than forcing every student into a single mould, the school creates space for individuality and provides diverse opportunities tailored to different personalities, strengths, and interests. 

Describe King’s in three words!

Supportive, passionate, nurturing.