North Tyneside teenager hits gold standard for music

Kings Priory School pupil Izzie Thorneycroft, 14, has been presented with a gold award by the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music following her grade-seven flute exam last year.

Her result of 147 was the highest in the region.

Izzie said: “I received the board’s Sir William Bigge Memorial Prize last term for my grade-seven flute, and I was overwhelmed enough by that.

“To now receive a gold award from the board is both humbling and inspiring. It has come as a total surprise.”

Elizabeth Johnston, deputy curriculum leader for music at the Huntingdon Place school, said: “Izzie is an outstanding student in every respect.

“She is talented, diligent and conscientious in her studies, but manages to maintain a very natural, friendly and warm personality that subtly hides her considerable abilities.”

Izzie was also recently given a place in the National Children’s Orchestra of Great Britain.

Mrs Johnston added: “This is an outstanding achievement as competition for places is exceptionally high, and only the very best performers from across the country are accepted to join.

“The competition for flautists is even greater as there are only four flute places available.

“Izzie is an absolute joy to teach, and we are immensely proud of her.

“She thoroughly deserves the award and all of this amazing recognition.”

Izzie will be joining the national orchestra on their next residential and concert series early this year.

The teenager added: “The music department at Kings Priory School have really supported my flute studies, and they have helped to encourage me every step of the way.”