Former music student earns global BTEC Award

Lillie Gregory has received a Silver Award for BTEC Music Learner of the Year at the annual BTEC Awards. This award recognises her dedication and commitment to her Music studies.

Pictured: (L) Curriculum Leader for Music Ellen Barlow, Lillie Gregory and Principal Frances Green.

The BTEC Awards is an event that is produced yearly, that recognises and celebrates all of the hard work and dedication of BTEC leaners, educators and providers from all around the globe.

Lillie, who completed her studies at Somercotes Academy earlier this year, was nominated for this award by her Music teacher, Miss Barlow. Miss Barlow said: “I nominated Lillie for the BTEC Music Learner of the Year Award as she is an extremely hard-working and dedicated student, who strives to achieve her best at all times. Lillie is a dedicated musician who takes pride in developing her talent by practicing regularly and being prepared for her performances. I am extremely proud of Lillie and her achievements; I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this award.”

Throughout her time at Somercotes Academy, Lillie has been an active member in the Music Department. She has participated in extra-curricular clubs such as Somercotes Singers and French Choir, performed as a solo pianist in Showcases and accompanied the choir on the piano too. She took part in the 2021 Winter Showcase by playing Beethoven’s ‘Moonlight Sonata’ on piano and singing with her fellow Somercotes Singers, Treble Makers and band, The Swirls.

Pictured: (L) The Swirls perform ‘Chasing Cars’ by Snow Patrol. (R) Lillie Gregory with Curriculum Leader for Music Ellen Barlow.

Lillie was extremely committed to her BTEC Music course and worked incredibly hard, achieving a Level 2 Merit overall. Lillie has said: “Music is very calming and something that you cane take into every subject. It is Science. It is English. It combines every single skill that you have and I find that it really relaxes me if I’m feeling stressed or have had a bad day.”

Lillie’s grandad encouraged her to play when she was 9 years old. He wanted someone in the family to play a musical instrument, so she took up the challenge and found something that she was skilled at and loved to do. Sadly, Lillie’s grandad has passed away, however she continues to play the piano and play the pieces that he wanted her to play.

Lillie achieved fantastic results this year with grades 7, 8 and 9 across all subjects. Lillie is now attending college studying French, Biology and Chemistry A Levels and has the aim of becoming a doctor. Although she is not perusing her Music studies further, Lillie is currently studying for her Grade 5 ABRSM Music Theory Exam and preparing for her Grade 6 ABRSM piano exam.

Pictured: Parents Andrew and Carla celebrate their daughter Lillie Gregory’s amazing results.

Lillie believes that everyone should be encouraged to get involved in Music. She has previously said that “the facilities at Somercotes Academy are great, with the access to pianos and sheet music making a huge difference. When you’re playing an instrument, you’re making it sing with just your hands, voice or breath and it’s such an important thing to remember.”