The focus was on talent, when our young photographers joined others to showcase their work at Chequers House Gallery in King’s Lynn.

Around fifty GCSE and A-Level students exhibited their photography at the Focus event, with participating high schools including Springwood, St Clement’s, and Marshland – all of which are members of the West Norfolk Academies Trust.

“The photography explored a wide variety of concepts from landscape to fashion, identity to street photography,” said Lee Eveson, who is Head of Art and Photography at Springwood, and co-curated and organised the exhibition with Phil Bennell, his counterpart at St Clement’s.

“Phil Bennell and I have been working together for many years now,” he continued. “He is a brilliant and inspiring teacher, and this really helps push the students to be more professional in their learning, and gives a chance to celebrate their work."

“I thought the exploration of portraiture and meaning was very powerful in the exhibition. Students explored themes and subcultures, and showed how they feel about the world and the society we live in."

“It’s also really great for families to see the students’ work in such a professional gallery as Chequers House, which hosts work from some of the best artists from across Norfolk."

The free exhibition takes place annually, and regularly attracts hundreds of visitors, with this year’s private viewing full to capacity.

“For us, it’s the highlight of the year,” added Mr Eveson. “It’s not only a chance to celebrate the work of the students, but we get to work with galleries like Chequers House and their amazing team, who I can’t thank enough for their support this year."

“Students getting to exhibit in a public gallery plays a powerful role in students’ learning, because they turn education into a real-world, interactive experience."

“It builds a connection between teachers and parents, and also gives the community a chance to see what extraordinary work our students produce.”