Connecting Art and Science: Meet Sophie who is pursuing both passions

Art lover. Future medic. Redmaids’ High Alumna - class 2025.

Sophie is a brilliant example of how creativity can open doors beyond the studio. During her gap year, she is thriving on a Art Foundation at the Royal West of England Academy in Bristol (RWA), building her artistic practice while preparing to begin her medical degree next year.

Her journey is a reminder of something we see often at Redmaids’ High: the way the Art can build confidence, curiosity and independence that carry into every part of life. Whether students go on to study science, medicine, business or something entirely different, the skills they gain through creative work stay with them. Our Art Department - with its supportive teachers, well-equipped studios, and wide range of opportunities - gives students the space to try new things, take risks and grow in ways that shape their futures.

In this conversation, Sophie talks about how her time in the Art Department helped her find her voice, the experiences that inspired her, and how creativity continues to guide her as she prepares to study medicine.

Question: Can you tell us a bit about your time at Redmaids’ High and how you got involved with the Art Department?

Sophie: I really enjoyed my time at Redmaids’, studying Art, Biology and Chemistry at A Level. Art is my favourite hobby and when I didn’t have a lesson, I’d often go up to the studios to work on my sketchbook. The Art teachers helped me to explore new, exciting materials and techniques throughout my time there.

Q: You’re planning to study medicine next year (congratulations!)  -  how has your background in art helped you in preparing for that path?

S: There have been countless times in art when I’ve gone out of my comfort zone, and this has given me confidence to tackle problems outside of the classroom as well.

Q: You’re currently pursuing an Art Foundation in Bristol - what does that involve?

S: Recently, I’ve been exploring different art disciplines, for example, printmaking and ceramics, as well as doing skills workshops, such as enamelling. It’s been a lot of fun and I’m about to start my chosen pathway.

Q: You’re also volunteering in our school’s Art Department -  what kind of work are you doing there?

S: I’ve been helping the Art Technicians and drawing and decorating trees for the School production, which has been really exciting!

Q: Were there any particular opportunities, workshops, or experiences that helped you build your portfolio or confidence?

S: Art trips to London, I could see lots of artwork that inspired me in my own studies. I also really enjoyed AS Photography, learning about shutter speed, aperture and interesting compositions.

Q: What are you most looking forward to in your gap year and your upcoming studies in medicine?

S: I’m looking forward to experimenting with printing processes, drawing and painting in ways I might not have thought. As for studying medicine, I’m looking forward to learning about anatomy, but above all meeting and helping patients.

To find out more about our Sixth Form Centre, click HERE.