WORLD championship Irish dancer Isabella Zibe is celebrating strong GCSE results today as she looks ahead to life in Dame Allan’s Sixth Form and a new advanced dance training programme.

The talented 16-year-old – who placed 10th in the solo category at this year’s Irish Dancing World Championships in Dublin and helped her céilí teams to third- and fourth-place finishes – achieved nine GCSEs graded 8–6, including a grade 8 in dance.

Isabella, from Gosforth, said: “Keeping on top of both my dance commitments and my exams was tough at times, but today makes it all feel worthwhile. It’s shown me what I’m capable of, and I feel ready for the challenge of Sixth Form and excited about what comes next.”

Isabella intends to study A Level biology, chemistry and psychology and take an Extended Project Qualification. She is considering a future in medicine or dentistry while continuing her passion for dance.

She has taken the decision to step back from the intensity of competitive Irish dance and successfully secured a place on Dance City’s prestigious Centre for Advanced Training (CAT) programme – a scheme that nurtures gifted young dancers across the North East.

“I had to audition and interview to secure a place on the CAT programme, and I’m really looking forward to developing my skills in a range of dance styles, meeting new people and being part of a new environment,” Isabella added.

Will Scott, Principal at Dame Allan’s Schools, said: “Isabella’s achievements on the international stage are remarkable in themselves, but what stands out is the way she has combined that dedication with her studies. The commitment and organisation she has shown will serve her well in the Sixth Form and beyond.”