The Arts Council recently took the opportunity to catch up with Year 11 student Irene to find out why the Arts are such a big part of her life. As a dedicated member of PJE (Patana Jazz Ensemble) and an IGCSE Music and GCSE Fine Art student, Irene’s passion for creativity is clear both in and out of the classroom.

For Irene, music and art are more than just subjects, they are ways to express herself and grow as a person. Reflecting on her journey, she explains that performing has been key to her development. “Performing in school events has significantly boosted my confidence and growth as a musician. It’s allowed me to fully express my love for singing and music.” Through composing, rehearsing and creating, Irene has discovered her artistic voice and the confidence to share it with others.

Being part of PJE has been a major turning point. When Irene was younger, the thought of going on stage made her nervous “I deeply struggled with stage fright and found it difficult to perform in front of a large group of people,” she says. However, weekly rehearsals in such a supportive group changed everything. “Contributing to the Patana jazz ensemble every week has made a huge difference in my life, it’s taught me the value of teamwork, helped me overcome my fear, and taught me not to let fear take over what I love most.” Each performance helped shape her, “not just as a solo singer, but in learning how to work together as a band.” As a House Captain, Irene has taken the initiative to organise the House Band alongside a few students, while also taking on the role of lead vocalist. Her involvement reflects her genuine passion for music and her commitment to sharing this passion with others through musical performances.

Looking ahead, Irene is determined to keep the Arts in her life beyond IGCSE. “I definitely plan to keep singing and performing after IGCSEs,” she says. She hopes to perform for sick patients, sing for both charity and special events, and take part in countless competitions. Inspired by the wonderful experience she has had with events that she has already taken part in like the 170th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Thailand and the United Kingdom, First Prize Winner at Grand Prize Virtuoso with an invitation to person in Vienna, First Place Winner at Golden Classical Award Music International Competition with an invitation to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York, First Place Winner in The World’s Best Musicians Competition 2026 and performing in many hospitals. Irene has also completed her Grade 8 ABRSM singing exam for both musical and classical and is aiming to complete her Grade 8 Trinity Pop exam. Music IGCSE has supported this ambition, as she shares “IGCSE has developed my compositional skills, allowing me to create my own songs, which has motivated me to keep experimenting with songwriting.”

Alongside Music, Fine Art gives Irene a sense of calm. “Painting allows me to express emotions and deeper thoughts,” she explains, adding that art gives her “a different kind of calmness” and a break from fast-paced academic life.

When asked for advice for students considering taking a GCSE Arts subject, Irene keeps it real. “Choose Art, Music or Drama because you enjoy the subject.” She believes passion matters just as much as talent and encourages students to experiment, stay organised, and start coursework early. Through the Arts, Irene has found confidence, balance, and a strong sense of who she is. Proof that creativity shapes more than just skills.

Arts Council Press

Meet the Student Arts Council!

Hello from the Student Arts Council! We are a group of students who share a passion for Visual Arts, Drama and Music, and we’re excited to help shape the creative life of Bangkok Patana School.

Our aim is to represent student voices, celebrate the talent in our community and encourage more people to get involved in the Arts. We want to bring students together, share ideas and help create opportunities to try something new.

Whether you love performing, creating behind the scenes or picking up a paintbrush, we’d love to hear your ideas. We look forward to a creative year together!