01 June 2026

Clarendon Sixth Form College student achieves lifelong dream to study at prestigious fashion and design university.

Katie Leigh-Roberts, a level three fashion and textiles student, has been accepted into Parsons School of Design in New York, to study a BFA in Fashion Design.

Parsons School of Design is one of the world’s most prestigious creative universities; its alumni includes famous designers such as Marc Jacobs and Tom Ford. It has strong links to major fashion brands and is located at the heart of the global industry.

After submitting her application to the university and being asked to provide a portfolio of her work, Katie was overjoyed to learn she had offered a place to begin her studies in September.

As a child, Katie dreamed of studying fashion in the United States, after being inspired by magazines and television shows she used fashion as a way of expressing her creative spark.

After completing her studies with Parsons School of Design, Katie hopes to find an internship in the industry and eventually start a career in fashion journalism with a well known industry magazine.

Katie said: “It was such a shock that my application had been accepted. It took me a long time to realise this is actually happening and it still doesn’t quite seem real yet. My family and friends were so happy for me. Growing up I liked to have control over what I was wearing and I would always pick something to express myself with and explain my identity. Now that I get to do this for real is amazing.”

Niahm Clarke, fashion and textiles teacher at Clarendon Sixth Form College, said: “We are exceptionally proud of Katie’s acceptance into Parsons School of Design. This is a fantastic achievement and a real reflection of her talent, dedication and creative vision. Parsons is a world renowned institution for aspiring fashion students and I have no doubt that she will thrive in such an inspiring environment. We are excited to see how she continues to grow as a designer and make the most of this incredible opportunity.”

To find out more about creative courses at Clarendon Sixth Form College, visit the college website or call 0161 908 6600.