Student Spotlight: Ellie’s Journey at Queen’s College Taunton

Ellie, a vibrant Sixth Form pupil at Queen’s College Taunton, brings a flair for the arts and a passion for personal growth to the campus. Originally from Streatham in South East London, Ellie’s chose Queen’s searching for a change of pace and a fervent passion for performing arts.

“I didn’t get to do much performing arts at my old school,” Ellie reminisces. “So, when my family decided to seek a new environment, we prioritised places with strong performing arts departments. Queen’s College stood out with its remarkable facilities, especially the Queen’s Hall, where even the organ caught my attention during the tour.”

Since her enrollment in September 2023, Ellie has seamlessly woven herself into the fabric of Queen’s College, embracing its sense of comfort, community, and encouragement. “It’s been an incredible journey,” she says, “The opportunities here are endless.”

In a whirlwind of accomplishments, Ellie has left an indelible mark within the Queen’s community. From commanding the stage as Scrooge in “A Christmas Carol” to her poignant portrayal in “Les Miserables,” Ellie’s talent shines brightly. Her dedication to the arts earned her half colours for Drama and Music within a single term, a testament to her unwavering commitment.

But Ellie’s contributions extend beyond the stage. As a wellbeing mentor and leader of house drama, she fosters a supportive environment where students thrive. “The Sixth Form here is like a close-knit family,” Ellie shares. “We’re encouraged to explore our interests, take on leadership roles, and engage with the broader college community.”

Looking ahead, Ellie’s enthusiasm is palpable. With upcoming ventures such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award, organising a monologue for her fellow pupils, and pursuing her Grade 8 in violin next year, her journey at Queen’s is far from over. “I’m excited for what’s to come,” she exclaims. “Particularly for the musical theatre productions next year, and the trip to Iceland for my Geography A Level, there are so many opportunities.”

The Queen’s Diploma is an exciting new initiative developed to prepare young adults for the future and strengthen their opportunities in early adulthood and beyond. For Ellie, the Queen’s Diploma heralds a new chapter brimming with promise. “It’s a game-changer,” she asserts. “The emphasis on life skills and recognition for achievements sets us up for success beyond Sixth Form.” With aspirations to study Creative Music Technology at renowned universities like Bristol, Manchester, Leeds, or Falmouth, Ellie is confident that her experiences at Queen’s will pave the way for a bright future.

As the curtains rise on each new day at Queen’s College Taunton, Ellie stands centre stage, poised to embrace every opportunity and carve her path in the world of performing arts and beyond.