Famous Alumni Torquay Boys’ Grammar School has some fascinating and well-known alumni; James Hunt, Deputy Head Teacher takes up the story.
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orquay Boys’ Grammar School has long had a reputation for providing a great education for students, but it is merely a springboard to some amazing life-long achievements. The school recently called out to alumni to get in touch with news and photos of what they were up to, to discover that past students were working in all sectors and across the globe. Their stories have formed a new corridor display to inspire current students with a message that future success can come in all shapes and sizes. There are too many to share, but here are a few snapshots of past alumni:
The Sky's the Limit As a centre of academic Chris excellence, it is Lintott inevitable that many alumni have pursued academic careers. The most famous former student must be Chris Lintott, professor of Astrophysics at Oxford University, and Citizen Science Lead. He’s recognisable as the host of the BBC astronomy programme The Sky at Night, first starring alongside Patrick Moore in 2000. He has published numerous books, including collaborations with Patrick Moore and Brian May. His love of the night sky was inspired at TBGS, not least because of the school observatory, opened in 1989. englishrivieramagazine.co.uk
Sporting Stars The school prides itself on developing academic success alongside the whole person, hence a strong focus on pastoral, extracurricular and sporting endeavours. Hopefully, Chris Read students leave the school with life-long healthy and active lifestyles. Many former students push the limits conquering mountain climbs, marathons, and expeditions. Numerous alumni have taken sport to a professional level, most notably Chris Read Tom (England Cricketer), Whittle and Sam Skinner (Exeter Chiefs and Scotland Rugby Union player). Tom Whittle, following a charity cycle ride through South America, discovered the energy power of tea, and so founded Mission Tea, offering hot and cold brews as healthy alternatives to coffee and energy drinks.
And Action! Many have also pursued the arts and film. Roger Deakins, Oscar-winning cinematographer is well-known for work on a host of films including The Shawshank Redemption April/May 2022 | 19
