Oynisa achieved the A-Level grades that she needed to study International Relations with Spanish and Arabic at the University of St Andrews.

Oynisa, who is from Uzbekistan, joined King's Ely Senior in Year 10 as a full-time boarder from an independent school near London.

Oynisa studied Politics, English Literature, and Spanish for her A-Levels. She also completed an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), titled: 'Does the “Women, Life, Freedom” movement in Iran have the potential to bring about political change?'

Oynisa was appointed Deputy Co-Head of School and a Queen's Scholar.

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

Oynisa, what career path do you plan on pursuing?

I hope to build a career in Diplomacy.

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

The decisive move to King’s from my previous school was primarily academic. The quality of teaching at King's is truly outstanding. The teachers are experts in their field who are passionate about their subject. The drive that all of the teachers have for their subjects is very admirable and contagious, which is what inspired me to settle on my A-Level choices. My teachers have done an amazing job in teaching me to be just as passionate about my own interests. The results that I achieved in my A-Levels seemed impossible when I first started Sixth Form. However, their support and belief in me has helped me to excel at my studies and achieve my goals. Their support, knowledge, and care never went unnoticed by me; always admired, appreciated, and respected.

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

The best thing about King’s is that there are so many opportunities that really allow every student to find themselves and their pursuits. I very much tried to get involved in as much as possible and these experiences were incredibly rewarding. I was very lucky to be appointed Deputy Co-Head of School, School Prefect, Girls' Football Vice Captain, Hill House Prefect, a Queen's Scholar, and a Pupil Instructor for Ely Scheme.

I also took part in our enrichment sessions which allowed me to participate in Model UN Conferences and contribute to our online school magazine, KEStrel. As a boarder, I got involved in the boarding community across the different year groups, visiting Priory House as a part of Prefect work, and visiting Wendreda House and Etheldreda House to help with Ely Scheme Challenge preparation. I also participated actively in our inter-house debating competitions, being appointed the Debating Captain for Hill House, and hosted our famous International Concert alongside Ceci twice! 

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

King’s has provided me with the most loyal and caring support throughout my years at the school. As a boarder, I always had Mrs Jackson, Miss Armstrong, and our lovely Matron, Hailey, by my side. They have become a family to all the girls in Hill House, which we all will miss so much. Furthermore, I always felt that all my teachers truly cared for me and were always there for me when they would notice that my performance in class was not the usual. What is important is that all my teachers took the time to get to know me, not only as a student, but also as an individual, which is something I will cherish for life.

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

I will miss the boarding community the most. Boarding at King’s has been life changing. My friends have become my sisters for life. Growing up in such a multicultural and diverse environment has been the most rewarding experience because your boarding house ultimately becomes your home. Leaving boarding this year feels like leaving home all over again.

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

The community at King’s is what makes it stand out the most. When I first arrived, I remember thinking how massive the school was and how easily I got lost. At first, King's feels like such a big place, but what makes it feel small is the community. Everyone is so tightly bonded with each other in classes, amongst and between the year groups, between and in boarding houses, which builds one big family. This big family unites in Ely Cathedral which also makes King’s so special. We are very lucky to be able to go into the Cathedral twice a week in which the atmosphere is surreal, especially during special services when the whole school becomes one voice whilst singing our favourites, such as “Shine Jesus shine” and “Coe Fen”.

Describe King’s in three words!

Loyal, passionate, humble.