Willink-Alumni (ID 1039)

• Verity Lemm | Class of 2016
  Clinical Nurse Specialist | Community Palliative Care
  Verity Lemm | Class of 2016

  At The Willink Sixth Form, Verity studied Biology, Geography, Philosophy and Physics. She went on to study Biology at the University of Plymouth, followed by postgraduate Adult Nursing at the University of Southampton. After working in community nursing and Hospice at Home, she progressed to community palliative care.

  Verity credits The Willink’s supportive teachers and the opportunities it provided to build confidence in the subjects she enjoyed.

  Work hard at what you enjoy and ask questions about what careers are out there!

• Sam Cother | Class of 2016
  Senior Lighting Technician | Creative & Technical
  Sam Cother | Class of 2016

  After studying Music, Technology and Media Studies at The Willink Sixth Form, Sam went on to Bath Spa University, building a career in recording, live sound and lighting alongside performing as a session drummer. He is now Senior Lighting Technician at the University of Oxford’s Schwarzman Centre, working on productions featuring leading artists.

  Sam credits The Willink’s Music Department with encouraging his passion for the arts.

  Take each day as it comes and don’t stress if you don’t know what you want to do right away. Being patient sucks, but it’s worth it.

• Abigail Spoor | Class of 2016
  Dentist | Healthcare
  Abigail Spoor | Class of 2016

  At The Willink Sixth Form, Abigail studied Maths, Chemistry, Biology and French, before going on to study Dentistry at the University of Leeds. After graduating with distinction, she completed dental foundation training in London and has since worked as an associate dentist across various practices.

  In 2025, Abigail began a postgraduate diploma in Restorative and Aesthetic Dentistry, alongside her clinical work.

  Abigail credits her Willink A-Level teachers with supporting her to achieve the grades she needed to secure a place at dental school, as well as the encouragement of friends with similarly high ambitions.

  Enjoy this time because it is one of the best times in your life.

• Emily Wood | Class of 2018
  Product Performance Manager | Technology & AI
  Emily Wood | Class of 2018

  After studying Maths, English Literature, Spanish and Physics at The Willink Sixth Form, Emily took Linguistics and Psychology at the University of Southampton, followed by an MPhil in Forensic and Computational Linguistics at University of Cambridge. Her career has taken her from tech sales and forensic linguistics with the Ministry of Defence to behavioural analysis and AI.

  Emily credits The Willink's supportive environment and extracurricular opportunities with helping her develop confidence and collaboration skills.

  Take every opportunity and have fun. Pursue what you enjoy.

• Millaina Kemp | Class of 2021
  Production Coordinator | Film & Video
  Millaina Kemp | Class of 2021

  After leaving The Willink, Millaina studied Media Production at Reading College, followed by Film Production at the University of Winchester. She moved straight into the industry after graduating, joining NRG Studios as a Production Coordinator.

  Millaina credits The Willink with sparking her interest in the creative industry and inspiring her to pursue a career in film and video. She is proud to have secured a full-time role in the industry straight after university.

  Always put 100% into everything you do, because someone will notice and they will give you a chance.

• Emily Rees | Class of 2021
  Digital Marketing Account Manager | Marketing & Digital
  Emily Rees | Class of 2021

  After leaving The Willink Sixth Form, Emily completed a Level 3 Apprenticeship in Digital Marketing and now works full-time at a Digital Marketing and Web Development agency in Wokingham. She manages projects and campaigns for a range of businesses, building client relationships and helping businesses grow.

  Emily credits scenario-based work and real-life advice from teachers with helping prepare her for the world of work. She is proud of building the confidence to manage her own projects and work with new people.

  You don’t have to follow what everyone else is doing. Take the leap and enjoy.

• John Children | Class of 2009
  Principal Software Engineer | Technology
  John Children | Class of 2009

  At The Willink Sixth Form, John studied Maths, Further Maths, Physics, History and English Literature, before studying Physics with Philosophy at the University of York and completing a Master’s in Quantum Technologies at the University of Leeds. His career has taken him from web development and an indie game development venture in Vancouver to technology start-ups in the UK. He joined CQC in Cambridge, combining his interests in quantum computing.

  John credits his maths Willink teacher, Mr John, with inspiring his passion for mathematics and providing a strong foundation for his career.

  Don’t be afraid to ask ‘why?’ and ask for things to be fully explained to you.

• Katie Hannawin | Class of 2015
  Assistant Librarian | Education & Heritage
  Katie Hannawin | Class of 2015

  At The Willink Sixth Form, Katie studied History, English Literature, French and Psychology AS, before studying History and Modern Languages at the University of Oxford. After graduating, she discovered librarianship through a graduate traineeship at St John’s College, Cambridge, later completing an MA in Library and Information Studies at UCL. She now works as Assistant Librarian (Reader Services) at All Souls College, Oxford, working with readers and the College’s special collections, including rare books and medieval manuscripts.

  Katie credits several key members of The Willink staff with having a lasting impact on her education and career.

  You don’t have to know exactly what you want to do before you leave school.

  It’s okay to figure it out as you go along.

• Jessica Smith | Class of 2018
  PhD Researcher | Psychology & Mental Health
  Jessica Smith | Class of 2018

  At The Willink Sixth Form, Jessica studied Psychology, Sociology, English Literature, AS Biology and General Studies, before studying Psychology with Sociology at Nottingham Trent University. A placement year at Northern Arizona University sparked her interest in international study, followed by a Master’s in Mental Health and Psychological Well-being at NTU.

  Jessica is now in the final year of a PhD in Psychology at Swansea University, researching gambling-related harm among military personnel. Alongside her PhD, she works as a Research Assistant investigating gambling advertising policies and presents her research at conferences in the UK and internationally.

  Jessica credits her Psychology and Sociology teachers with inspiring her academic journey, while the school’s Outlook Expedition to Madagascar helped build her confidence, independence and love of travel.

  Say yes to as many opportunities as possible. All the little experiences add up.

• Evie Edwards | Class of 2018
  Midwife | Healthcare
  Evie Edwards | Class of 2018

  At The Willink Sixth Form, Evie studied Biology, Drama and History, before going on to study Midwifery at London South Bank University. After graduating, she completed her preceptorship year, rotating across different areas of midwifery. She now works full-time on a labour ward, caring for women with both low- and high-risk pregnancies and supporting them through childbirth and the early postnatal period.

  Evie credits her Willink teacher, Dr Kellaway, with helping her develop the confidence and study skills she needed to succeed in Biology and progress to university. She hopes to become a labour ward manager, combining clinical experience with leadership.

  Believe in yourself. You can do anything you set your mind to. The hard work will pay off.

• Eleanor Warkup | Class of 2018
  Quality Engineer | Construction
  Eleanor Warkup | Class of 2018

  At The Willink Sixth Form, Eleanor studied History, Media and Sociology, before going on to study at the University of Bedfordshire. Her career has taken her from childcare and hospitality to construction, where she now works as a Quality Engineer for an American company in the UK. She is proud to be working in an industry where there are fewer women and hopes to return to university to further her knowledge of civil engineering.

  Eleanor credits the support and guidance of teachers at The Willink with preparing her for both further education and the world of work.

  “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Teachers, friends, family and carers are all there to support you. Don’t feel you have to do it all on your own.”

• Naomi Tomkins Wekesa | Class of 2003
  Deputy Head | Education & Pastoral Leadership
  Naomi Tomkins Wekesa | Class of 2003

  At The Willink Sixth Form, Naomi studied English Literature, Theatre Studies, Mathematics, Chemistry and Biology, before studying English Literature and Theatre Studies at the University of Leeds. She went on to complete a PGCE in Secondary Drama and English at the University of Reading, including a placement at The Willink where she directed a 24-hour musical.

  Her career has taken her from teaching in Leeds and an international school in Kenya, where she held roles including SENDCO and Head of Faculty, to senior leadership in the UK. She is now Deputy Head at a 2–18 school, with responsibility for pastoral care, culture, careers, DEIB, CPD and outdoor education.

  Naomi credits the care and attention of teachers who knew her well, alongside opportunities to travel and volunteer, with helping prepare her for her career.

  Embrace every opportunity, keep your mind and heart open, and be prepared to listen more than you speak.

• Michali Swainston-Harrison | Class of 2019
  Actor | Performing Arts
  Michali Swainston-Harrison | Class of 2019

  At The Willink Sixth Form, Michael studied Drama, Computer Science and English Literature, before training at The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Since graduating, he has worked as a stage actor in the UK and internationally, including performances in Jesus Christ Superstar at The Watermill Theatre and Yentl, which transferred from the Sydney Opera House. Most recently, Michael performed Off-Broadway in New York in Cable Street, following its successful London run.

  Michael credits studying Drama and performing in school productions at The Willink with helping him build the confidence to pursue a career on stage.

  Find what brings you joy and pursue that. It’s not always easy, but if you do something you love, you will pull through!

• Ben Marett | Class of 2023
  Parliamentary Intern | Politics & Government
  Ben Marett | Class of 2023

  At The Willink Sixth Form, Ben studied History, Politics and Drama, before going on to study British Politics and Legislative Studies at the University of Hull. Since September 2025, he has been spending his placement year working as a Parliamentary Intern for a Member of Parliament, where he has had the opportunity to write speeches.

  Ben credits The Willink’s great teaching, particularly in History and Politics, with developing his work ethic and sparking a passion he has continued to pursue.

  Whatever you do after school, do what you enjoy the most. Doing a placement year or getting some experience in work is a great way to find out what you might want to do long-term.

• Michael Hopkins | Class of 2002
  Professional Bubbleologist | Entertainment
  Michael Hopkins | Class of 2002

  After leaving The Willink, Michael explored several different paths, studying art subjects at college, resitting his GCSEs and later gaining a plumbing qualification. After working in baking and landscaping, he began building a reputation as a professional bubble performer.

  Today, Michael performs internationally and is a committee member of the Association of International Bubble Artists (AOIBA). He recently helped organise the world’s first international bubble convention and counts performing for one of the world’s wealthiest families and outside Battersea during the King’s Coronation among his proudest achievements.

  Michael’s advice to current students reflects his own journey:

  I’m proof that you can be whatever you want to be! Focus on what you’re good at and reach your goals!

• Jamie Clapham | Class of 2016
  Senior Client Operations Specialist | Business & Technology
  Jamie Clapham | Class of 2016

  After leaving The Willink, Jamie chose a Microsoft Sales Apprenticeship rather than university, reflecting a preference for hands-on learning. This led to a role as a Microsoft Partner Programme Manager, followed by positions in AR/VR business consultancy and supplier onboarding. Jamie now works as a Senior Client Operations Specialist, managing supplier operations across the platform for all clients.

  Jamie credits The Willink teachers with recognising that university was not the right route and encouraging an apprenticeship instead – a decision that kick-started their career.

  Try everything and anything. If you want to do something, go for it. Don’t let anything hold you back from chasing your dreams and doing what interests you

• Leah Maidment | Class of 2016
  Influencer Marketing Manager | Digital & Media
  Leah Maidment | Class of 2016

  At The Willink Sixth Form, Leah studied Sociology, English Literature and History, before going on to study at the University of Winchester. Her career began as a virtual assistant during COVID, before moving into marketing roles at a fintech start-up and Reach PLC. She then moved into the creator economy, where she now manages business enquiries, PR and promotional partnerships, alongside creating social media content for a music creator.

  Leah is particularly proud of launching a TikTok account that has grown to almost 400,000 followers in a year, with more than 84 million views.

  You don’t need to have everything figured out when you leave The Willink. You don’t need to have everything figured out when you graduate. You don’t have to love your first job. It’ll all come in time – be patient with yourself!

• Jane Goodey | Class of 1993
  Regional Workplace Services Manager | Facilities Management
  Jane Goodey | Class of 1993

  Jane left The Willink at 16 and was determined to pursue a career as a chef. After gaining a catering apprenticeship, she progressed from Commis Chef to Catering Manager at Prudential by the age of 24. She later returned to education, studying towards an MBA, before moving into HR, training and ultimately Facilities Management, where she has worked for almost 20 years.

  Today, Jane manages workplace services, from ensuring staff have safe and well-equipped workplaces to overseeing major office refurbishments.

  Jane credits The Willink with giving her a strong all-round education and remembers teachers who invested time in helping her succeed.

  Don’t put yourself under any pressure to make firm choices about what you are going to do post-school.

• Rachel Kowald | Class of 2002
  SEND Teacher | Education
  Rachel Kowald | Class of 2002

  At The Willink Sixth Form, Rachel studied Spanish, History, Music and Maths, before going on to study at Lancaster University. She has since built a 22-year career in education, initially teaching History in mainstream schools before specialising in SEND. She has worked across both mainstream and specialist settings, including running alternative provision bases and providing respite care for students with a wide range of needs.

  Rachel is particularly proud of setting up and running a successful resource base, enabling students with significant learning difficulties to remain in mainstream education while accessing appropriate support and opportunities.

  Rachel credits The Willink with giving her confidence, resilience, knowledge, qualifications and lifelong friendships.

  Don’t let one exam result or difficult lesson demotivate you – keep going!

• Abi Glover | Class of 2019
  Trainee Clinical Scientist | Medical Physics
  Abi Glover | Class of 2019

  At The Willink Sixth Form, Abi studied Maths, Physics and Economics, before studying Physics with Medical Physics at Cardiff University. She then secured a place on the highly competitive Scientist Training Programme (STP), specialising in Medical Physics, while completing a Master’s degree at King’s College London.

  Abi specialised in Nuclear Medicine, working with radioactive materials to support the diagnosis and treatment of disease. Her role includes radiation safety, managing radioactive materials, quality control of specialist equipment and supporting radionuclide therapies.

  By pursuing my interests, I discovered a career that I had never even heard of while I was at school, and it has turned out to be my dream job.

  Abi credits the support she received at The Willink with helping her keep going when things did not go to plan.

  Don’t worry if you do not have everything figured out yet. Be open to opportunities, keep exploring what interests you, and trust that your path will develop over time.

• Izziiee Jewell | Class of 2016
  Broadcast Audio Engineer | Music & Media
  Izziiee Jewell | Class of 2016

  At The Willink Sixth Form, Izziiee studied Maths, Physics and Music Technology, before studying at the University of Surrey. She began her career at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, working as a recording engineer in its studio and broadcasting performances across the Barbican. Her freelance work led to opportunities to work with major artists and tour internationally, before she moved into teaching and helped develop the technical side of a new short film module.

  Izziiee is now working as a Broadcast Audio Engineer at Apple Music Radio, recording and broadcasting music for a range of radio shows.

  A career highlight was recording an album that received a Grammy nomination in 2021. She is also passionate about tackling the gender imbalance in technical audio roles through outreach and mentoring.

  The music teachers at The Willink were so supportive and definitely made me want to pursue a career in music.

• Paul Tuson | Class of 1985
  Chief Financial Officer & Non-Executive Director | Finance & Business
  Paul Tuson | Class of 1985

  At The Willink Sixth Form, Paul studied Pure Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry, before going on to study at the University of Southampton. He qualified as a Chartered Accountant with KPMG, gaining experience in Reading, Boston and London, before moving into senior finance leadership roles across a range of industries, primarily with companies listed on, or seeking admission to, the London Stock Exchange’s AIM market.

  Paul’s career highlight has been leading his first Initial Public Offering (IPO).

  Paul credits The Willink’s diverse student population and its emphasis on attitude alongside aptitude with helping prepare him for the world of work.

  Embrace teamwork, try experiences outside your comfort zone, be spot on with your attitude and use your initiative.

• James Absolom | Class of 2020
  Lecturer in Robotics & Automation | Engineering & Technology
  James Absolom | Class of 2020

  At The Willink Sixth Form, James studied Maths, Drama and Computer Science. After leaving during the COVID-19 pandemic, he took a gap year before studying Robotics at Falmouth University. While at university, he co-founded an agricultural robotics company, developing robots for the farming industry.

  After graduating, James joined York College as a Lecturer in Robotics and Automation Engineering, where he teaches engineering and leads Higher Education programmes. He is currently working towards his PGCE, with ambitions to launch another robotics company focused on satellite construction.

  James credits The Willink with developing his programming, problem-solving and presentation skills, which have proved invaluable throughout his studies, entrepreneurial journey and teaching career.

  Keep going, keep working at it and have confidence in yourself. You are capable of far more than you think.

• Natalie Mears | Class of 2006
  Events Manager | Education & Charity
  Natalie Mears | Class of 2006

  At The Willink Sixth Form, Natalie studied Biology, Sociology, Maths and Spanish AS, before going on to study Psychology at UWE and a Master’s in Public Health at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. She spent around a decade working in Public Health before deciding to take a different direction, training in counselling and hypnotherapy and exploring a more spiritual path.

  Natalie now works as an Events Manager for an educational charity focused on science, spirituality and consciousness. Her career journey has taught her to embrace the unexpected and remain open to new opportunities.

  Natalie’s advice to current students is to believe in themselves and not allow grades to define their worth, potential or future.

  The world needs your ideas, your talents and your authentic self.