Five Minutes With... Matthew Chippington, Co-Head of School for 2025-26 | News | King's Ely | Private Co-educational School in Cambridgeshire

Five Minutes With... Matthew Chippington, Co-Head of School for 2025-26

King's Ely NEWS

Five Minutes With... Matthew Chippington, Co-Head of School for 2025-26

September 2025

In which year group did you join King’s?

I joined King's Ely Senior in Year 9.

What A-Level subjects are you studying?

I am studying History, Politics, and Music.

What is your favourite subject and why?

I would have to say Music is my favourite subject, mainly because I find listening to and learning new pieces of Music really interesting.

What extra-curricular activities are you involved in at King’s?

I am Head of the Barbers this year, which is the school's a capella group. I am also involved in Chapel Choir and Chamber Choir, and I was able to do a tour to Sicily two years ago and sing in some iconic Cathedrals around the UK. I also play the double bass in Orchestra and KESSO, which is the school's String Orchestra, and yet another opportunity for me to do something that I truly love. Aside from all of the Music, I really like my Sport as well. I am a keen Hockey player, and I enjoy playing it when it comes around in the Lent Term. I also like to play Cricket in the summer - although I am not the best, I find it really entertaining and sociable.

Describe King’s in three words:

Unique, welcoming, supportive.

What do you think makes King’s a unique place to study?

The amount of different opportunities available to students. The plethora of co-curricular activities, whether it be in Music, Sport, Drama, Art, or any other passion - it is all on offer at King's. 

How do you feel to have been appointed Co-Head of School?

Over the moon! I must say I was not expecting to be put forward for the position, let alone be appointed. I do not think that I will ever be able to process the level of importance the role holds. I would also say I am very fortunate to be in this role alongside a great team of individuals. 

What do you hope to achieve in your capacity as Co-Head of School?

I hope to achieve even greater student involvement. I feel like there are so many ways for pupils to put themselves out there at King's. I would also like to continue the strong connection between the Upper Sixth and the rest of the school.

What are your plans for after Sixth Form? Do you know what career you would like to pursue yet?

After Sixth Form I am looking to do a degree apprenticeship in Law. Hopefully at the end of the apprenticeship I will be a fully qualified solicitor and be able to work as a lawyer.

Hobbies/interests outside of school:

Mostly Music, both in and outside of school. I used to be into mountain biking, but now I struggle to find the time to go.

Any pets?

Yes, I have a Cocker Spaniel named Kip!

What is your favourite meal/food at King’s?

Specifically in the Old Palace, I must admit the Wednesday roasts are a highlight of my week. It is a close second with the BBQ pulled pork wraps though.

If you could have a superpower, what would it be?

It would be flight. Just the versatility it offers of getting to places easily and quickly. 

Who is your hero?

I would have to say my future self. I say I push myself and drive myself the most to chase what the best version of me could be like.

What is your proudest accomplishment?

Being appointed Co-Head of School.

What was the last book you read?

'The Courage to be Disliked' - a great book to change the way you view the world.

What song are you most likely to sing at a karaoke?

‘Careless Whispers’.

What is your favourite film?

'Hangover' - the first one is the best one out of the three.

Do you have any phobias or fears?

No not really, nothing of major interest, but old dolls creep me out!

If you could share a meal with any four individuals, living or dead, who would they be?

Jeremy Clarkson, Jesus, Stan Lee, and Michael Schumacher. A bit of a random mix of people but it would be an interesting conversation.

Name three things you would want with you if you were stranded on a desert island for a week:

Probably my phone, a boat, and some food, just so that I do not starve!