The recent 2020 leavers’ panel consisted of Katy Lyall (Guidance and Counselling, Northumbria University), Charlotte Stephenson (Veterinary Science, Edinburgh University) and Matthew Bell (Project A at the Theatre Royal). They spoke eloquently and gave some fantastic suggestions for how to best choose a course, write a personal statement and survive in Year 13 and beyond.

The second panel was led by Allanians with a presentation from Charlotte Wilkinson (Class of 1995) who spoke virtually from Singapore about her career all over the world and followed up excellently by Stephen Davies (Class of 1994), Louise Liddle (Class of 2002), Jenny Wilkes (Class of 2013) and Barry Hopper (Class of 1987). All speakers outlined their career and the steps they took to get to where they are now, what being an Allanian means to them, some keys to success and what equality and diversity looks like in their workplace. The common theme was lifelong learning, coupled with grabbing each and every opportunity.

The students found the presentations fascinating and many stayed behind to ask more questions. We are so grateful to all of the Allanians who spoke at the event, giving up their time to help to inspire a new generation of students to achieve great things.

Year 12  student Anna said:
“Return and Inspire Event worked really well as it was not only informative and inspiring but it truly highlighted the Dame Allan's community spirit. Many of the speakers talked about the value of the Dame Allan's as more than just a school for academic learning but as a place that deeply shaped their personal character. They also emphasised the importance and uniqueness of the Dame Allan's network, expressing how this continued to help them throughout their careers. 

It was reassuring to hear the 2020 leavers’ experiences throughout Sixth Form and their advice for UCAS applications, and the girls really enjoyed Charlotte Wilkinson’s talk as they found it very inspiring to hear about female successes in male-dominated fields. It was also very positive to learn about the companies she has established to promote female rights in advertising.”

If any Allanians would like to share their story with current students or help with HE/Careers events, please contact Bel Whitehouse here