- Work Hard
- 6th Nov 2024
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From Olympians to TV producers – Meet the trailblazing former Royal Grammar School Newcastle pupils
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As one of Newcastle’s most prestigious educational institutions, the Royal Grammar School has always been a beacon of excellence.
With its Quincentenary celebrations approaching in 2025, the school is taking the opportunity to reflect on 500 years of shaping remarkable individuals who have gone on to achieve remarkable things and celebrate five modern day key figures who now inspire RGS students.
From Olympians to influential figures in business, entertainment and public service, RGS’s alumni continue to blaze trails across the globe.
CELEBRATING A HISTORIC 500 LEGACY
Next year marks an extraordinary milestone in the school’s history: 500 years since the founding legacy of Thomas Horsley, Mayor of Newcastle, who generously bequeathed his estate to establish a grammar school. RGS will honour this legacy with a year-long celebration, starting in spring 2025 and running through to spring 2026.
Through a series of events and themes – spanning topics such as academic excellence, arts, sports and community impact – RGS will explore its journey over five centuries.
Kicking off the celebrations is a special RGS 500 Choir and Orchestra Concert at The Glasshouse International Centre for Music on 19th March 2025, featuring everything from Tudor-era compositions to a brand-new school anthem.
Known as the Old Novocastrian, the RGS’s alumni network boasts nearly 10,000 members who provide support, guidance and inspiration to current students.
MEET RGS’S MODERN TRAIL BLAZERS
Kate Waugh
RGS’s first female Olympian, Kate recently competed in the Paris 2024 Olympics, proudly representing Great Britain in the Women’s Triathlon. She follows in the footsteps of fellow RGS alumni Olympians Boda Gallon, who competed in Judo at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, and Roger F. Brown, a Team GB rower in the 1992 and 1996 Olympics.
Image credit: VSP Images
Varun Chandra
Currently serving as Keir Starmer’s special adviser on business and investment, Varun is the managing partner at Hakluyt, a consultancy founded by former MI6 officers. His influential role in advising global leaders reflects the calibre of RGS graduates in shaping policy and business on a global scale.
Image credit: Sky News
Leo Pearlman
With over 18 years in the entertainment industry, Leo Pearlman is a managing partner at Fulwell 73, the powerhouse behind popular shows like Sunderland ‘Til I Die and The Kardashians. Whether producing award-winning documentaries or collaborating with top music artists, Leo’s creative flair has left a lasting mark on the industry.
Image credit: RGS
Abigail Thorn
The creator of the popular YouTube channel Philosophy Tube, Abigail has become an influential voice in online education. Combining philosophy with creativity, she has inspired millions worldwide – giving credit to her RGS philosophy teacher for sparking her passion.
Image credit: IMDb
Max Hill QC
A legal heavyweight, Max Hill QC currently serves as the Director of Public Prosecutions for the Crown Prosecution Service. Throughout his career, Max has been involved in some of the most high-profile cases in the UK, including the London bombings of 2005, showcasing the impact RGS alumni have in the legal world.
Paul WS Anderson
Paul W.S. Anderson is an English director known for science fiction films and video game adaptations. After his debut with Shopping (1994), he found success with Mortal Kombat (1995). He’s most celebrated for directing several Resident Evil films (2002–2016), starring his wife, Milla Jovovich, collectively grossing over £1 billion.
Image credit: Film Stories
Scarlett Millican
Scarlett Milligan is a skilled barrister at 39 Essex Chambers, specializing in public and regulatory law, including healthcare and environmental law. Recognized for her expertise and effective advocacy, she handles complex cases involving judicial reviews and statutory appeals, representing both public bodies and private clients in high-profile legal matters.
LOOKING AHEAD
Want to be a part of this legacy? Don’t miss the chance to experience RGS for yourself at the upcoming Open Morning on Saturday 16th November 2024 from 9:30am – 12:30pm. Discover why “There’s More to Life at RGS” and learn how this historic school continues to inspire the next generation of leaders.
Royal Grammar School, Eskdale Terrace, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4DX
Rachael Ellis
Creative Solutions Manager
After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…
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