A refugee who arrived in the UK with very little English is now hoping to go on to a career in music.

William Ellis School and LaSWAP sixth former Elya Ghasempour arrived in the UK from Iran in 2017.

The 18-year-old gained a B in A-level music technology, a C in physics, a B at AS level maths and an extended project qualification in the relationship between music and language. 

He has applied through clearing to study recording, mixing and music production at Westminster University.

He has a confirmed university offer outside London as a back-up if he changes his mind.

LaSWAP is a sixth form consortium made up of four Camden schools - La Sainte Union, William Ellis, Acland Burghley and Parliament Hill.

Former Camden mayor Cllr Sabrina Francis, cabinet member for young people and culture, attended the LaSWAP hub in Highgate Road on Thursday (August 17) to congratulate students.

She said: “It was fantastic to be able to celebrate these wonderful results alongside students and staff at LaSWAP and hear about students’ future plans and goals.

"Good luck to all students in the future - and remember, we have so many fantastic opportunities available for young people in the borough if you aren’t sure of what to do next – from apprenticeships and work experience programmes to further and higher education opportunities, we are here to support you.”

Izzy Jones, headteacher of William Ellis School, said: “Congratulations to all the students for the amazing resilience and strength of character they have shown over the last four years.”