Iris achieved the A-Level grades that she needed to study Fashion Design and Marketing at Northumbria University.

Iris joined King's Ely Senior in Year 9 from a local secondary school.

Iris studied Photography, Textile Design, and Psychology for her A-Levels. She also completed an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), for which she researched Vogue Magazine, with the intention of producing her own publication for teenagers, featuring many of her friends. 

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

Iris, what is the quality and style of teaching like at King’s?

King's has a very hands-on approach when it comes to teaching. Mr Longo, my Photography Teacher, was incredibly supportive. He is so passionate about his subject and clearly wants all of his students to succeed. Both he and Mrs Rhodes, my Textiles Teacher, would open up the Art Department at weekends and come in during their spare time to help us get ahead of deadlines. The dedication that they both showed was amazing.

Similarly, Mr Quinn, my Psychology Teacher, held after school revision sessions, and was as passionate about supporting his students. I always felt that I could approach Mr Quinn for a quick chat or to clear up something that I did not quite understand. Mr Quinn was also incredibly well organised, which set up an amazing foundation when it came to revision. I felt in very safe hands with all of my teachers but with the sheer amount of context there is in A-Level Psychology, Mr Quinn’s organisation and consistent presence was definitely helpful and appreciated. 

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

The Art Department at King's is truly inspiring, and I spent so much time there! Frank, Mr Longo's dog, and Balti, Mr and Mrs Ward's dog, are key members of the Department and always helped to make lessons fun. Shout out to Ainsworth, Mr Quinn's dog, too!

During my time at King's, I participated in a number of Textiles and Photography Competitions. The stand-outs for me were being shortlisted in the Ilford UK Student Photography Competition and walking on the catwalk for the designer, Drew Kent, at Alexandra Palace’s Knit and Stitch Festival.

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

Yes, I felt very well supported at King's. Mr Longo and Mrs Rhodes in particular really took care of me, for which I am so grateful.

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

I think what I will miss most about King’s are my Textiles and Photography lessons, which were always so much fun. I will also miss popping into town with my friends for another Gail’s trip!

The Sixth Form Socials were great fun too. I found myself speaking to people who I was never really that close to in Year 11 and below, but who are people I would now call good friends. My favourite social had to be the Christmas Ball. The atmosphere was amazing, everyone looked fantastic, the awards were so much fun, and the disco was always entertaining! 

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

I think King's is unique compared to other schools in the way that it does genuinely inspire students, especially when it comes to trying something new. I was never nervous to get involved or worried I would not be cool if I joined a new club, which I do not think is the case at all schools.

Describe King’s in three words!

Fun, encouraging, unique.