Former King's Lynn student receives royal recognition of achievements with book signed by the Queen

A former Lynn student has received royal recognition of her achievements, after being presented with a signed book from the Queen.

Ellie Chen achieved Springwood High School Sixth Form's top A-level grades last year, and her hard work was rewarded with the formal presentation at Sandringham on Sunday.

Ellie, who is now studying English Language and Literature at the University of Oxford, said: “It felt like the past two years of work had been worthwhile.”

In an audience with the Queen, following the Sunday morning service at St Mary Magdalene Church, the former Springwood pupil received a signed edition of the Complete Works of William Shakespeare.

“It was way more friendly and casual than I expected – we even saw George and Charlotte running around," Ellie added.

“Meeting the Queen was really nice, she was very friendly and very lively.”

Ellie, who achieved an A* in English Literature, an A* in Sociology and an A in History, was not the only Springwood pupil to receive the school's top marks, as her best friend also achieved two A*s and one A.

It was the first time in the 10 years that Andy Johnson has been Springwood head teacher that two people had both achieved the highest marks – meaning the decision on who attended the presentation at Sandringham had to be based on previous achievements.

"When you have equal scores, then we go to the next tier down, which was GCSEs," Mr Johnson said.

Mr Johnson, who accompanied Ellie and her family at the presentation, added: "This was a wonderful accolade for Ellie, recognising her outstanding achievements.

"We are very proud that she's now studying at Oxford – one of the most prestigious universities in the world.

"It's a privilege for the school to have the opportunity to present a student to Her Majesty, and a privilege that she gives up her time for the presentation."