Talented singer triumphs over loss to secure Cambridge place

A TALENTED singer has triumphed over loss to achieve the top A-level grades she needed to win a place at the University of Cambridge.

Ripon Grammar School student Tassy Bell, renowned for her standout performances in school concerts, struggled with the death of her beloved grandfather in October, during her crucial final exam year.

Despite this, Tassy achieved an A* in religious education and three As in politics, chemistry and German. She also achieved her grade 8 in singing and completed an extended project qualification on the development of sacred music in the West.

Now looking forward to studying theology at Newnham College Cambridge she told how she was heartbroken when her grandfather Michael Rowley, who lived just a five-minute walk away from her family home and played a major role in the family floristry business, died.

Tassy, a member of the National Youth Choir of Great Britain, said her mum also had to take on a lot more work as a result: “We were very close and it was a struggle and extremely challenging after he died, making the balance of school and home life very difficult.”

Tassy juggled her studies with music and performing, playing a leading role in the school musical production of Sweeney Todd in addition to singing in RGS’s senior girls’ and chamber choirs.

She also completed her gold Duke of Edinburgh award and took up judo training outside school.

“I have really enjoyed my time in sixth form and I look forward to all the things that lie ahead. I can't wait to catch up with everyone at the reunions over the coming years,” she said.

She hopes to take part in the civil service fast stream programme after university and work in foreign affairs or the department for education.