GCSE Music

Studying at Ashbourne helped me to explore new horizons in art and discover the diverse culture of London. Two years of A-level program have provided me with a knowledge of various Textiles and Fine Art techniques which I hope would be taken further within my specialist area at the university. History of Art helped to develop analytical skills which are absolutely necessary in order to formulate my aesthetic. Now I hope to find my own way within the broad Fashion industry

Ashbourne was an amazing experience for me. My teachers were always on hand to help with any of my problems and ensure I achieved my maximum potential. The style of teaching was captivating and to such a high level that I believe it was key to my success at Ashbourne and for that I am unreservedly grateful

During my three-year ride as an Asher, new doors opened up for me to a new world in which I found my true passion. It is encouraging independent learning while providing students with sufficient support when needed, along with its active, lively and friendly atmosphere that give Ashbourne its uniqueness. The location is great and adds to the liveliness of the atmosphere. As far as academia is concerned, the necessary platform for success in most subject areas one might be interested in is provided. The rest is up to the individual

Ashbourne has provided me with the platform, the time and the space to grow intellectually. We are encouraged to read widely and since Ashbourne offers extra curricular critical theory, I have found my subjects being independently stimulated and motivated by cross disciplinary links. Aside from academic growth, Ashbourne has offered me a chance to feel a part of something. The opportunity to be the co-editor of Ashbourne Identity, the college’s student magazine, has given me a sense of responsibility, creative freedom and pride toward Ashbourne’s diversity. From Ashbourne’s Christmas Revue to its annual European trip, the college’s nurturing and collaborative atmosphere will remain a highlight of my time at Ashbourne

Choosing to study at Ashbourne College is one of the best decisions that I have made. All the academic tutors gave me a lot of assistance when I prepared for the exams and interviews, especially the Director of Studies, John Wilson and Principal, Mike Kirby, who pushed me a lot when I prepared for the Cambridge University interview

My time at Ashbourne was everything I hoped it would be and more. In the space of just two years my technical understanding and appreciation of music have rocketed higher than I ever thought possible. Thanks to Piers’ outstanding and engaging teaching, I’ve fallen in love with opera and have now, since leaving Ashbourne, written my own, incorporating all the musical devices and tricks we learned about in lesson. So thanks to Ashbourne, I now have the confidence and knowledge to not only apply to my own shows but to the musical developing company called ‘Wishful Thinking’ I now work with as a creative development assistant. I cannot recommend Ashbourne enough for anyone with a drive and a passion to succeed. You will thrive.

Choosing to study at Ashbourne was one of my best decisions because I was so well cared for both academically and personally. This was especially true in preparing for my interview at Cambridge, for which I received a lot of help from my Personal Tutor

My time at Ashbourne was a fun and exciting experience. It had a very relaxed atmosphere which helped me settle in very well. The College’s approach to teaching in the classrooms was very different to traditional 6th form Colleges and a lot more informal which I believe was a great aid in developing my skills in independent study. During my time as a student at Ashbourne, I was passionate about physics and maths as well as music. My teachers and other staff members were very supportive of this and were an incredible assistance in helping me find an ideal course at university which catered to my interest. Thanks to Ashbourne I went on to do a joint degree in Physics and Music at Cardiff University. I graduated in 2018 and have remained at Cardiff to do a masters in Astrophysics.

Ashbourne has broadened my academic and personal horizons beyond any expectation I may have had when I first arrived here. I think a good school gets you where you want to go, but an outstanding school takes you to a place beyond what you would ever have envisaged for yourself, and therefore I can only describe Ashbourne as an outstanding and incredible place to study. As planned, having finished my A levels, I am now entering into my gap year in order to pursue my entrepreneurial ambitions. I intend to gain work experience in the business sector im entering into, in hope to build a strong foundation of authentic understanding and knowledge of the industry, on which I hope to build a successful business in the near future

Honestly, I had the best two years of my life as an A level student at Ashbourne. While attending music classes at Royal College of Music Junior Department on Saturdays, the flexibility of the time-table each of us gets from Ashbourne gave me plenty of time to practise on violin/harp. Not only did Ashbourne prepare me extremely well for the A level exams, the music opportunities I was exposed to during my time here really helped to develop myself into a better musician. We had at least one music concert every term, plenty of opportunities to play in ensembles as well as having our compositions performed by professional musicians! Ashbourne really focuses on bringing out the individuality and independence of its students. I am currently studying Instrumental Performance at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, and am loving every second!