Congratulations to King's Ely Sixth Form pupil, Lucy Wright, for her outstanding achievements in this year's ILFORD PHOTO 'International Student Photographer of the Year' competition!

Lucy, who is in Year 13, was one of eight photography students at King's to be shortlisted in the contest this year. As if being shortlisted is not a fantastic accomplishment, Lucy has now been awarded the 'International Runner-up' prize.

The theme of the 2024-25 competition was 'Pride and Prejudice'. ILFORD PHOTO wanted to see how students interpreted its central themes, and how they felt they are reflected in today's society. Hundreds of photography students from around the world entered.

Lucy joined King's Ely Prep in Year 6. She is now studying Photography, Textiles, and Film Studies for her A-Levels. Lucy's poignant image of a fellow Sixth Form student was shot on ILFORD FP4 Plus film, and was printed on ILFORD MULTIGRADE RC Deluxe Pearl Paper.

Lucy said: "I took this photograph to highlight the casual and often overlooked discrimination in football, particularly regarding gender and race. My model, being both female and Indian, represents groups that frequently face sexism and racism within the sport. Discrimination is still prevalent in the football community and is often weaponised against players, which I find inexcusable."

King's photography students shortlisted alongside Lucy this year were: Finnian Stroud, Evie Boughton, Iris Warriner, Meilin Wu, Jialin Wang, Anna Platt, and Alexia Rojas.

Mr Antonio Longo, who is Head of Photography at King's, said: "I think the theme of this year's competition was one of the most challenging ones to date, as it evokes so many different opinions. I am extremely proud of Lucy and all of our students who were shortlisted."

Many King's students have enjoyed success in this competition over the years, including Elly Hakansson-Harvey (2022), Lucas Edevane (2021), Paige Newell (2020), Luna Guo (2019), and Orla Simpson (2018).

Bravo to Lucy, kudos to all of our students who were shortlisted, and thank you to Mr Longo for his ever-present support and guidance!