Oxford University Success for Lipson Co-operative

Academy Student

Lipson Co-operative Academy could not be prouder of their recent Alumni, David Howard Baker who, following his foundation degree, has been accepted to read Music at Oxford University in September 2017. 

David was one of the first students to have benefited directly from Lipson’s specialist tutor groups alongside free tuition on several instruments as part of their outstanding music provision at Lipson. His assiduous approach to music has assisted in him securing a place to read music at Oxford after his foundation year at Lady Margaret's Hall.  His music teacher, Peter Twyman, was invited to a guest night at Oxford University last week in order to celebrate with David.

Mr Twyman said, “It gave me great pleasure to receive an invitation to attend a guest night at Oxford University with ex-student David-Howard Baker last week. The passion and enthusiasm to embrace challenge was evident when I met up with David and I felt so proud to have played a small part as his teacher in the pathway David has chosen.”

David began his musical journey studying flute, sax and keyboard at Lipson and playing lead alto sax in the College’s ‘Co-operative Big Band’.  These musical opportunities beyond the school context gave David real drive and ambition to read music at post 16 level.  It was whilst studying A Level composition with Pete Twyman, that he developed a natural talent for composing, leading to his selection to attend the Purcell School of Music Summer School in advance composition for two consecutive years.  Here, as well as with the continued opportunities facilitated by his composition teacher Pete, he gained an A* in music at A level.  This abetted him in securing his place at Oxford where he is now embracing new musical horizons.

Principal, Lynda Budd, said that, “this is a clear testament to the quality of music provision here at Lipson Co-operative Academy.” We watch with excitement to see what the future holds for such a talented musician.