As university applications, interviews, and apprenticeship opportunities begin to take shape, Michaelmas term can feel daunting for many sixth formers. To provide encouragement and practical insight, the School welcomed back recent alumni for the third Employability and Entrepreneurism Networking Dinner.

While teachers and the careers team are always available to guide students, nothing compares to hearing first-hand experiences from those who were in the same position just a few years ago.

The night opened with drinks and conversation as sixth formers, OBs and staff mingled. Students wasted no time in seeking guidance.

Once seated, each table included at least one or two OBs, eager to share their insights. As introductions flowed and starters were enjoyed, students embraced Mr Cale’s advice to “ask as many open questions as you possibly can.”

Over a three-course meal, conversations turned to career challenges, interview strategies and entrepreneurship opportunities. Throughout the evening, alumni delivered motivating talks. Students heard from:

Jed Thirkettle - 2018. After an Economics & Politics degree at Nottingham University and 3 years in corporate sales, Jed Thirkettle took the leap and opened his own business, JUCED in 2024.  JUCED is a can of high protein natural fruit-based drinks, with no added sugar whatsoever! 

Becca Easterbrook - 2022. Attended Durham University, studying Liberal Arts and Sciences before attending Law School. She is a Future Trainee Solicitor with Stephenson Harwood.

Jo Lucas  - 2016. Attended Newcastle University. He now works for IFF Social and Market Research Agency.  Market and Social Research involves collecting and analyzing data to determine profit, customer satisfaction while addressing social issues. 

Amy Baxter - 2022. Amy studied Geography at Durham University. She is currently a postgraduate student, completing a Sustainability Internship at London St Pancras Highspeed while doing a Masters’s at Kings on Climate Change. 

Tom Castellani - 2020. Studied Modern and Medieval Languages at Cambridge University.  He is now at Law School. 

A heartfelt thank you goes to all the OBs who attended this year’s dinner: 

Tyler Edwards (2022), Will Barnes (2020), Charlie Doe (2022), Becca Easterbrook (2022), Amy Baxter (2022), Jed Thirkettle (2018), Bradley Hucker (2019), Tom Castellani (2020), Joe Lucas (2016).