Alumni

1. Kirsty O'Brien (1996-2001)
Teacher & Parent

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
I gained good GCSEs from Regents Park that set me up to complete further education - I also had a really positive experience throughout my school life at Regents Park.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
I went to Richard Taunton Sixth Form College and completed 4 A Levels and then onto the University of Winchester to do a history degree.  I then went onto do a bit of travelling before doing my PGCE at Sussex University.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
To not worry as much - it always works out in the end!

 

2. Greta Birch (2006-2011)

Maths Teacher

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
My time at Regents Park improved my ability and passion for a subject I had previously not liked, Maths.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
I went on to attain a Mathematics degree and I am going to be training to become a Maths teacher.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
I would tell myself not to get so worked up about exams, as long as you have revised and done your best, that is all you can do.

 

3. Francesca Lovato (2008-2013)

Website & Social Media Lead

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
Regents Park helped me to pass all of my exams with C’s and above, so that I was able to go to college for further education.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
After Regents Park I went to Richard Taunton Sixth Form College, university did not really interest me and I wanted to start working as soon as possible.  I completed the two years and then started my job here doing an apprenticeship in Business Administration.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
As long as you try and do your best, that’s all that matters.

 

4. Kate Heath (1985-1989)

SIMS & OFFICE MANAGER

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?

It enabled me to gain a good education and meet some lifelong friends.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
I went straight out to work whilst going to college on a day release basis to gain further qualifications within my chosen field.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
Relax, you can only do your best – everything will work out in the end.

 

5. Whitney Giles (2005-2010)

NHS

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
I was able to get good enough grades to go on into college.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
When I left Regents park I went straight into college, and studied on a 3 year course in hairdressing.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
As long as you stay focused and do your best, you can do anything -  never give up.

 

6. Ami Smallwood (2002-2007)

NHS

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
The education and support from teachers helped me to achieve high GCSE grades, which has led me to be successful in many job applications.  I also made great friends, that 10 years down the line I am still close with.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
I worked part time while attending college, then after a year I went into full time work within the NHS where I have continued to progress.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
To be confident and make the most of time with friends at school and always keep on top of art coursework!

 

7. Chrissy Channing (2002-2007)

NURSE & PARENT

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
The grades I got at Regents Park helped me to go on to an access course and then onto university to become a nurse - which I now juggle with being a parent.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
I tell myself not to worry so much about everything, it’ll all be ok.

 

8. Anisha Khan (2008-2013)

STUDENT

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
Gave me the confidence and a love for the sciences that pushed me into studying at higher education.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
I went on to study at Richard Taunton Sixth Form College, taking Maths, Biology, Chemistry and Psychology.  Originally I planned to go into Forensic Science but fell in love with Psychology and that became my career path.

Took Psychology at University of Winchester and am now planning to study Computer Science so I am prepared to specialise in Cyberpsychology.  During my degree I worked as both a Research Assistant but also a Statistics Demonstrator for my professors which helped me gain experience and contacts needed for the future.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
Don't be afraid to ask for help, for anything!  Whether it's grades, physical health or mental health - especially that last one!
Take care of your friends and of yourself - try not to take everything too seriously and enjoy yourself!

 

9. Victoria Popoola (2008-2013)

NHS

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
The teachers inspired and encouraged me with my studies to reach my potential.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
After I left Regents Park, I went to college at Peter Symonds and after my A-levels I was accepted to University of Portsmouth for BSc course in Human Physiology.  I am planning on starting my Masters degree soon.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
Be you and continue being you. Stay true to yourself.

 

10. Steph Bayliss (2002-2007)

PHARMACY TECHNICIAN

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
Gaining 11 GCSEs B-C, has allowed me to go further into careers which is obviously important.  However, being a part of after school activities such as Rock Challenge / Sport really helped me develop in confidence and mould me as an individual but also develop team skills which I could use in all aspects of life i.e. working in America for 3 months, travelling, putting required skills into any job situation.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
When I left school I’ve experienced a variety of education/careers.  I firstly went to Richard Taunton Sixth Form College to study Sports Coaching for two years.  I then had a gap year where I worked full time in retail to fund a trip to Australia.  I decided to go to University of Winchester to further my career in Sport Coaching.  During one of the summers I spent 3 months in Boston, America, at a Summer Camp as an Athletics Coach, which was the best experience I could have asked for.  After this I had a complete change around where I worked at Marwell Activity Centre for a season.  A complete different opportunity arose to work in a pharmacy at the hospital where I am now going into my second year of training to become a Pharmacy Technician.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self 
GCSEs are important even if they don’t feel like it at the time!  But embrace every good opportunity, work hard and be ambitious with what you want in life.

 

11. Jack Dazley (2008-2013)

STUDENT & EXAM INVIGILATOR

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
My studies at Regents Park have given me great confidence in everyday things including public speaking and writing. From taught content and my work experience placement at NOCS, I had found my keen interest in the life sciences and have since pursued this further.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
After leaving Regents Park I continued my studies at Richard Taunton Sixth Form College, studying Maths, Geography, Chemistry and Biology.  Afterwards, I then went on to study Biological Sciences at Bournemouth University, specialising in Biodiversity and Aquatic Microbial Ecology.

Alongside my studies, I have been working as a research assistant at the university, and have been involved in several projects including public engagement events such as the Bournemouth air festival and festival of learning (working with both the university and the Royal Society of Biology) and also a conservation and education outreach project in a school in Mathare, Kenya.  In addition I have been involved in lab research, lab demonstrations and teaching.

After I graduate this year I will be pursuing a Masters by Research at Bournemouth University.

What advice would you give your former 14-year old self?
The best I would give to a younger self would be to grab any and every opportunity for extra - curricular activities and to pursue your passion.

 

12. Pelumi Popoola (2008-2012)

STUDENT

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
Studying at Regents Park was rewarding because the teachers were great in supporting me with my GCSEs which allowed me to go to college.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
After I left, I went on to Peter Symonds college to do my A-levels and I am currently studying medicine at Brighton and Sussex Medical School.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
GCSEs is not the be all ... there’s a lot more studying to come. Enjoy the experience, don’t stress out too much and make good memories.

 

13. Paula Simmons

STUDENT WELFARE OFFICER

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
Have pride in myself and respect for others.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
After gaining good GCSE’s I went on to study at Totton college, from there I got my first full time job and worked my way up to become a stock control manager, due to the location of the job and family life I decided to leave and try something new.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
Always try your best no one can ask for anymore, listen to your teachers they are trying to get the best out of you.

 

14. Becky Taylor

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST & TEAM LEADER MENTAL HEALTH

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
School encouraged me to try harder to focus on my future.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
After school I went to college for a few years, improved my GCSEs and went on to study health and social care.  Then on to university to complete my BSc hons in Occupational Therapy.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
I'd tell my 14 year old self to do my best to be kind to everyone.  Do what I really believe is right and don't follow the crowd, they don't hang around for long after school unless they are true friends!

 

15. Michelle Clarke

HGV TRUCK COORDINATOR 

How has your time at regents park helped you with your life after education?
To grow up maturely in a safe environment and the ability to interact with all types of different people.

What did you do when you left regents park?
College for 3 years then leisure club fitness instructor and receptionist within a hotel.  I have been doing my current job for 15 years, which is a HGV Truck Coordinator.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
Socialising with all types of different pupils and interacting with different teachers.  All this helps you develop good social skills which I think I have benefited from most.



16. Sarah Jane Banks nee Terrey

SALES MANAGER AT JURY'S INN SOUTHAMPTON

How has your time at regents park helped you with your life after education?
My time at Regents Park cemented the foundations for my future.  From Year 9 onward I was taught to work hard for what I wanted and needed to achieve to work towards the next stage of my life and be successful.

What did you do when you left regents park?
I went onto study at Southampton City College and completed a BTEC National Diploma in Fashion and Textiles, completing this course with a Distinction. Following this I completed a BA Honours Degree at Winchester School of Art in Womenswear fashion, English and Spanish and gained a 2:2 in 2003.
From here, I worked within the hospitality and events industry at some prestigious venues within the city such at the De Vere Grand Harbour and Southampton Football Club.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
To listen to those adults who I thought were nagging me, to work hard and strive to achieve the GCSE’s that’s I was capable of and to be kind.  I wasn’t always kind as a teenager but as I’ve gone through my journey into adulthood it’s one of the most important things to be and that’s what I’ve cemented into my own two children.  Always be kind and work hard.

 

17. Karianne Jordan nee Drake

PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER IN SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM

How has your time at regents park helped you with your life after education?
My GCSE’s enabled me to go to college, gain A levels, go to university and then gain my teaching degree.

What did you do when you left regents park?
I went to college and then I went to university and now I teach.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
You don’t have all the answers yet, continue to learn from your mistakes as they will happen!

 

18. Gemma Sidney nee Kinch

CAFE ASSISTANT

How has your time at regents park helped you with your life after education?
Gave me good morals.

What did you do when you left regents park?
Went to college to train as a chef.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
Have more confidence and believe in yourself, Don't try to be like everyone else.

 

19. Ellen Belcher

STUDENT

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
Regent’s Park helped me gain confidence in myself which allowed me to achieve the grades I needed to move onto further education.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
After leaving Regents Park I went onto study Law, Psychology, Sociology and Media at Richard Taunton’s Sixth Form College. These A-levels allowed me to secure a place on the forensic investigation course at Staffordshire University, which I will soon graduate from in July.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
Don’t take everything too seriously, try your best but also remember to have fun.

 

20. Pamela Reynolds nee Banks

HR & RECRUITMENT CO-ORDINATOR

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
Being at Regents Park helped me learn respect from having great teachers and I think being an all girls school helped me concentrate on my education rather than get distracted by boys!

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
I went to Richard Taunton Sixth Form College and got two A Levels in Psychology and English Language.  Had a variety of jobs but have now been in HR for 16 years and have a post graduate degree.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
I would advise myself to continue to work hard and not get distracted by petty arguments with friends as you will only hold on to a handful of those friends in future life and education sets you up for life.

 

21. Michelle Vinter (1993-1997)

DENTAL PRACTICE OWNER - HYGIENIST

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
Regents Park helped me keep up with deadlines, be respectful and nice to others. 

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
I went to Taunton's College for a year and I left as needed a job and became a qualified dental nurse.  I then went to Newcastle University and became a qualified hygienist. I recently went into business and bought my own Dental practice which is just across the road from the school! Back to the beginning!

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
Never let anyone dampen your ambitions or dreams, you can be anyone and do anything. Confidence wasn’t a strong point!

 

22. Hannah Parker

DOCTOR AT UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL SOUTHAMPTON

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
I had some great opportunities to improve my confidence in public speaking and presenting. As well as extra-curricular activities and brilliant teachers who encouraged me to pursue my interests.  This has definitely helped me get through medical school and beyond!

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
I went to Richard Taunton Sixth Form College to study Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Psychology, French and English.  I then moved to London to study medicine at Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry.  As well as completing a BSc in medical education. Having now finished my degrees, I’ve returned to Southampton to work as a doctor.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self? 
Work hard and do your best at school and in exams, but don’t forget to have fun with your family and friends too.  Make the most of the opportunities you are offered, you never know when those skills and experiences will be useful in later life.

 

23. Pamanjit Kahlon

SOLICITOR

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
It has been the platform for me to carry on with education and obtain professional qualifications, as well as developing my character.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
I am a qualified solicitor working for a corporate / commercial law firm in the City of London.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
Make the most of all the opportunities available and throw yourself into the deep end – challenges are a great way of learning what you are truly capable of achieving and you’re never too old / young to learn something new.

 

24. Elaine Williams (1981 - 1985)

RESEARCH DIRECTOR BASED WITHIN THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHAMPTON

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
Without a doubt, it was being part of a diverse comprehensive school community, and appreciating the different backgrounds, personalities and skills we all have. I believe strongly in being friendly, flexible and fair, and treating others how you would want to be treated. I have carried this from school and throughout my working life and I even learned to cook in home economics!

What did you go on to do when you left Regents Park?
I went to college for 2 years, and then started work as there were lots of opportunities for school and college leavers.  I worked in a large and growing financial services company and was fortunate to rapidly move up the career ladder into a senior management position.  But I always had this desire to work in health, so I took the plunge after 17 years and did a full-time degree in occupational therapy at the University of Southampton, and then worked at University Hospital Southampton.  I now work for the National Institute for Health Research which is funded by the Department of Health and Social Care to commission health and care research to benefit patients and the public.  My role is Research Director, based within the University of Southampton, leading a number of teams delivering research programmes.  It’s fantastic to know you’re making a difference to people’s lives in what you do.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
If I could turn the clock back I would study a bit harder rather than do ‘just enough’, kept playing team sports, and not had my hair permed!

 

25. Sarah Hodgkinson nee Price (1987 – 1993)

LSA AT A PRIMARY SCHOOL

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
My time at Regents Park taught me to try my hardest, that I can do it even if I think I can’t and also it’s not just about the education and what can be learnt but also about friendships.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
When I left Regents Park, I went to Eastleigh College and did my NNEB. I then worked with children in various roles - nanny, nursery, childminder until my current job.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
Try harder!!!!

 

26. Lorraine Jarvis nee Jacobs (1977 – 1981)

HEAD OF YEAR SUPPORT

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
It prepared me for getting a full time job without the need for further education.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
I went to work full time in Woolworths in Shirley, having had a Saturday job there previously. I continued there and became a supervisor until I left to become a Mum, I then returned on a part time basis.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
Work harder in school, to concentrate more in lessons and appreciate the education that Regents Park gave.



27. Kim Nott (1990 – 1994)

FULL TIME MUM

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
I remember one teacher telling me to always believe in myself and the things I find extra hard is just a little extra challenge for me.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
I left school and completed a course in child care and have been working in child care since then.  I am currently not working as I am supporting my son while settling into secondary school.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
I would tell myself at 14 to always hold your head up high, go for what you want, believe in yourself and to the all the people that may put you down, rise above it and prove them all wrong.

 

28. Marie Cross nee Thomas (1985-1989)

FACULTY EXECUTIVE OFFICER AT UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHAMPTON

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
School helps hone writing, speaking and teamworking skills.  Build relationships and learn to get along with all types of personalities.  All these qualities will help you in your future endeavours whatever you choose to do.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
I went to work as a Medical Secretary at Southampton General Hospital.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
Cherish everyday as you don’t know what life has in store for you, and remember school is only a small part of your journey.

 

29. Toni Walker nee Chafe (1985-1989)

SENIOR ADMINISTRATOR 

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
Despite not being the most academic of students, I feel the social and relationship skills that I learnt at school have helped mould me into the person I am today.  One of my proudest achievements being that I still have regular contact with two of the very best friends I met age 12!

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
I left school after my exams and went straight into an administrative environment as an office junior.  I still work in admin in senior role within an estate agency.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
My advice would be to take one day at a time and just do the very best you can and that will be good enough.

 

30. Kelly Moore (1989 – 1993)

HEAD OF YEAR SUPPORT AT A SENIOR SCHOOL

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
It’s given me the tools to make my job a success.  It made me confident and gave me the courage to do what I wanted to do in life.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
I started working as soon as I left school at a local primary school.  I then trained to be a French polisher, after which I went on to work in a pharmacy.  I had various jobs over the years until I found my niche at a senior school working with young people.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
Pay attention, take the advice that you are given and study hard.  Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Follow your dreams!

 

31. Casey Williams (2006 – 2011)

TRAINEE NURSING ASSOCIATE

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
I had a really positive experience and was supported through some difficult times by incredible teachers which enabled me to gain 11 GCSE’s all C and above.  I also gained many friends that I still remain close with.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
When I left I studied at Richard Taunton Sixth Form College where I gained 3 A Levels and travelled to Africa to help build a school.  I then started work at the hospital where I am now training to be a Nursing Associate in Paediatric Intensive Care, something I am truly passionate about.  I have also travelled to many places and hope to continue to do so.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
Everything takes time, and that’s completely ok but push yourself because the rewards will be worth it.

 

32. Gillian Donovan (1992-1996)

ENGLISH TEACHER

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
It helped me develop my personal relationship and organisational skills. As well as communication and respect for others.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
I have been a Paraplanner, Personal Assistant and Regional Services Manager. However, my greatest achievement to date is qualifying as a English Teacher.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
Believe in yourself, there is no such thing as ‘I can’t do it...’ It is ‘I can't do it YET!’

 

33. Agata Kupczak

POLICE OFFICER

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education?
I first learned how to speak English at the school, I had lovely teachers who assisted me every step of the way and school’s support system was in place for me to be able to participate in school life and succeed in the future, my friends were also my key support system during that time.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?
When I left Regents Park, I enrolled myself onto a uniformed public services course at Richard Taunton Sixth Form College, where I spent 2 years before going to University of Portsmouth to study Criminology and Psychology.  Throughout my time at university I volunteered with the police firstly as a shadow with CSI officers, then in year 2 I decided to take a gap year to volunteer full time for a year within the forensic department at Southampton Central Police Station.  There I spent about a year volunteering and a job opportunity came up to join the police as a PCSO, I have been in the job for 2.5 years and due to become a Police Officer in January 2019.

What advice would you give your former 14 year old self?
I would tell my 14 year old self to not give up on my dreams, I believe we can become whatever we want to become with enough effort and If we want something enough.  When I first arrived into the country I did not speak any English and with some hard work and support I became fluent in just over a year, I would definitely tell myself to be consistent and persevere.  I wanted to be a police officer since I was very little, and I applied a number of times starting from age 18, for various roles and was unsuccessful for various reasons however I persevered and worked harder.  I went to university, I attended courses, I volunteered and did not give up my dream as I wanted to go to work and love what I do every day which is to serve the community I grew up in and assist any way that I can.

 

34. Lorna Rogue (1988 – 1992)

CLINICAL SKILLS LEAD FOR THE SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT ANGLIA RUSKIN UNIVERSITY (CHELMSFORD) 


How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education? 

Regents Park provided me with some really supportive friends and showed me that it’s important to have balance between work and fun.

What did you do when you left Regents Park?

I completed my A levels/AS levels: Chemistry, Mathematics (Pure, applied and statistics), Human Biology, Electronics and Physics, which allowed me to apply for my MBiolSci (Masters degree in Biomedical Science).  Since then, I have held various roles: Operating Department Practitioner, Health and Safety Inspector (where I represented The Crown in a prosecution case) and as a Health and Social care tutor.  Additionally, I have worked in London Ambulance Service (whilst completing my second Master’s degree and my Post Graduate Certificate in Education), as a Physician Associate in a GP Surgery, St Georges University Hospital Foundation Trust as a Physician Associate in Urology Surgery and then in Resuscitation Education and in a resuscitation response team.  Before becoming Clinical Skills Lead, I was a Physician Associate in Older Persons Medicine in Singleton Hospital where I co-led a multi-disciplinary team. 

What advice would you give to your former 14-year-old self?

This is tricky as there is so much I would say – Perhaps the most important things are: Stay for the journey – the ending is usually better than you think. You usually regret the things you DIDN’T do – take every opportunity that is presented.

 

Rachel Cranshaw (2000-2005)

Journalist

How has your time at Regents Park helped you with your life after education? 

I went on to study English Literature and French at the University of Manchester and English Literature was what really made me able to recognise good writing, hopefully (!) produce it myself and construct arguments.  It was totally indispensable in acquiring the skills I need for my current career - and Regents Park was where I first found that love of English; of reading texts and writing about them. Being very involved in the music department (I played the flute) also taught me valuable life lessons about the rewards of perseverance.


What did you do when you left Regents Park? 

Before I went to university, I did A Levels in English Literature, French and History at Richard Taunton Sixth Form College.  As part of my degree, I lived and worked in France for a year, which was an amazing experience.  After graduating, I did an internship programme in France for a few months and then I did an NCTJ; a vocational journalism qualification, at Highbury College in Portsmouth.  It only took six months and didn't cost that much; it's more geared towards news journalism but it enabled me to get my first job working on local magazines in London.  I did that for a year before moving to a national website for two years, and then got my job at the Daily Telegraph, where I work now as a Senior Commissioning Editor in Travel.


What advice would you give your former 14 year old self? 

Although your career will take a different path, don't lean into the narrative that you 'can't do' maths and science.  You'll get a B in them at GCSE so you can't be that bad, and you could learn more in STEM subjects by being more open-minded!

Rachel Cranshaw, ex student and Senior Commissioning Editor for Telegraph Travel, visited us today to give our students some insight into a career in journalism. They had a Q + A with her and did a creative travel guide challenge! Rachel is an ex-student at RPCC so it was wonderful to have her back to share her journey with current students and invite them to consider a potential future career pathway!

Creativity