King's Ely NEWS
Robert secures Gap Year Choral Scholar opportunity at Norwich Cathedral
August 2026
August 2026
Robert achieved the A-Level grades that he needed to study Maths at Imperial College London. However, he has decided to take a gap year and to apply to the University of Cambridge to study Maths in 2027.
During his gap year, Robert will be a Choral Scholar at Norwich Cathedral. He also hopes to squeeze in plenty of Maths, Badminton, and Bouldering.
Robert joined King's Ely Acremont Nursery in 2010 and journeyed the whole way through the school.
He studied Maths, Further Maths, Physics, and Chemistry for his A-Levels.
We caught up with Robert after he received his A-Level results to find out more about his King's experience and what his next steps are...
Robert, what career path do you plan on pursuing?
I would love to pursue an academic career, either in research or professorship. I plan to spend a few years in quantitative finance, either before or after a PhD, to help support my academic pursuits.
What is the quality and style of teaching like at King’s?
My teachers were outstanding. Their ability to explain difficult concepts, far beyond what is asked for in the syllabus, allowed me to understand the content in a deeper way, to genuinely push myself academically, and to extend my super curricular learning to the fullest. Their endless support and belief in me all helped me attain my exceptional grades in A-Level Maths, Further Maths, Chemistry and Physics, and STEP papers. Special thanks to Dr Skeels, who marked more STEP papers than I can count and helped me achieve 1,1 in STEP in Year 12!
What else did you participate in during your time at King’s?
I was a Music Scholar, an Academic Scholar, a Choral Scholar, and a King’s Scholar, so I had quite a full plate! The Music Department at King’s was especially spectacular. I cannot remember how long I spent in the Recital Hall on the Steinway practising for various incredible concerts organised by the Department. I also loved being part of productions in the Drama Department in various roles - I acted in two productions, was Musical Director in one, and played in the pit band for another. They were all fantastic experiences and I do not think many schools have such great facilities for the Arts!
Do you feel that you have been well supported pastorally at King’s?
Yes, I was well supported. People in the Maths and Music Departments helped me through some challenging times, and I am very grateful for their support. Mr Porter-Thaw was particularly supportive throughout my time at King’s, especially before the Concerto Concert when I was struggling with performance anxiety!
What will you miss most about King’s and what did you enjoy most during your time here?
I will miss the wide range of extra-curricular activities that King’s offers. There really is something for everyone and all the communities in the different departments and areas of school are incredibly welcoming.
In what ways do you think King’s is unique or special compared to other schools?
King’s puts a particular focus on helping people become well-rounded members of society by not just focusing on Academics - the Art, Music, Drama, and Sports at King's are all stellar.
Describe King’s in three words!
Beautiful, supportive, spectacular.
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