Creativity

Isabella came to Woodhouse from St Michael's Catholic Grammar School and left us with A levels in Art & Design, English Literature, Drama & Theatre and an AS in Psychology. She went on to complete a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design and then a BA (Hons) Surface Design at the London College of Communication, UAL.

"I remember visiting Woodhouse when deciding on my A levels and really liking the energy and feel there.  The Head Teacher at the time gave a talk where he encouraged us to choose our A levels based on what we enjoyed and what we were good at - I really liked this approach and it's something that has stayed with me throughout my time in education and my career.  I remember being excited by the Art and Drama departments and finding these inspiring.  Woodhouse allowed me to take the subjects I was interested in and enjoyed.

I really loved the friendly and social atmosphere of Woodhouse - you would meet someone new every day in the social area!  The staff were brilliant, approachable and passionate.

The first time I experimented with screen printing was at Woodhouse; the Art technician had exposed one of my drawings of ballet shoes onto a small wooden and mesh frame, I absolutely loved the process and this played a big part in choosing to study at the London College of Communication (as they had a whole floor of studios dedicated to screen printing).  During my time at University screen printing was my passion and still is!

I went on to complete a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design at the London College of Communication, UAL, achieving a Distinction.  The course introduced me to a variety of different creative pathways, including Photography, Letterpress and Graphic Design - I absolutely loved the Surface Design pathway and knew this was what I wanted to continue with.  I applied to the BA (Hons) Surface Design course at LCC and was offered a place and went on to achieve a First. 

Where do you work now and what do you do?

I am currently a Senior Textile Designer for a Soft Furnishings Company, working closely with brands including Designers Guild, William Morris At Home, Orla Kiely and Laura Ashley, to develop seasonal homeware collections.  I've been at my current company for almost 9 years.  I also run my own small giftware business, designing bespoke stationery and turning my hand-painted illustrations into ceramic tableware and screen-printed textiles.  I have been very excited to have had my own pitch at market stalls and pop ups across London, including at King's Cross' Canopy Market and on Portobello Road.  

Woodhouse instilled a relaxed but independent way of learning which I found really helped prepare me for managing my workload whilst at University and in working for myself. Beyond studying, I made some great friends at Woodhouse and met and socialised with people across disciplines and courses. In the years since leaving, I have crossed paths with friends and peers from Woodhouse, in some cases we've ended up working together, or for the same people or in the same field!  You realise that your peers at this point in your life are your network."