9th Sep 2025
As we approach our centenary year at Belmont House School, we wanted to look back, and reconnect with former pupils, near and far. Here we have seven thoughtful questions that we ask our alumni focusing on their lives, successes, and the school’s influence.
Name: Christopher Paterson
Time period as a pupil at Belmont House: (1989 – 1992 / 1994 – 2001)
Current Occupation: Digital Lead – Programme Manager
How did your time at Belmont House School shape your career path?
Belmont House School gave me a strong foundation in confidence, communication, and creativity. It helped shape my ability to build relationships, think critically, and explore new ideas. Skills that have been central to my career in digital innovation and leadership.
Can you share a key moment or memory from your time at Belmont that had a lasting impact on you?
There’s that many to choose; from Sports Days, Prize Giving, School Plays, and School trips etc. A few standout memories from my time at Belmont House School was doing the Duke of Edinburgh Award as it really pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me a lot about resilience and teamwork. Being House Captain gave me my first real taste of leadership, and the Senior 6 trip to France was a brilliant experience that helped me build lasting friendships and broaden my outlook. All of these moments played a part in shaping who I am today and how I approach my career.
What skills or lessons learned at Belmont have been most valuable in your professional life?
Belmont taught me to lead by example, communicate effectively, and work as part of a team. I learned to solve problems, adapt to change, and stay resilient when faced with challenges beyond my control.
In what ways did Belmont House School’s community or culture contribute to your personal growth?
Belmont’s culture really helped me grow. The small class sizes meant you were never just a number, and the teachers were always approachable, doors were always open if you needed help or just have a chat. That kind of support gave me the confidence to speak up, ask questions, and believe in myself. It also pushed me to aim high and stay motivated, which has definitely carried through into how I work today. Being part of that community helped me become a strong communicator, and that’s been one of the most important skills in my career.
Can you describe how Belmont’s teachers or extracurricular activities helped shape your future ambitions?
Belmont played a huge role in shaping who I am today. Every teacher I had contributed in some way, offering guidance, encouragement, and support that helped me grow both academically and personally. Their influence has stayed with me throughout my life and career.
I’ve always been open to new ideas and opportunities, and that mindset was nurtured at Belmont. I threw myself into as many extracurricular activities as I could, from various sports such as rugby and cricket to the Duke of Edinburgh Award, and I was always encouraged and supported by the staff.
What advice would you give to current Belmont students who want to follow a similar path to yours?
My advice to current Belmont students would be to stay curious and open to learning. Engage with your teachers and classmates, take part in extra-curricular activities, and never hesitate to ask questions. The relationships you build and the experiences you gain during your time at Belmont can open doors you might not even see yet.
I’ve chosen to send my two boys to Belmont because I wanted them to have the same opportunities, I had a strong foundation and the best possible start in life. Belmont was more than just a school for me; it was the launchpad that helped shape my journey. Even though careers can take many different directions, the skills and values you develop here are transferable and will serve you well wherever you go.
Looking back, how do you feel Belmont House School prepared you for the challenges and opportunities you’ve faced in life?
The School always pushed me in the right ways, it challenged me, kept me engaged, and helped me build resilience. I learned to take on things that felt uncomfortable, adapt to change, and keep going even when things got tough. That mindset has stuck with me to this very day. I never thought for a moment that I would be working in the Nuclear, Energy, Defence and Space Industry. I know Mr Shanks and Mr Doak would never have thought that back in the 90’s.
At school, I was always encouraged to grab every opportunity, and now I find myself saying the same thing to my own boys. I’m constantly telling them to give things a go, even if they’re not sure or don’t think they’ll enjoy it, because you never know where it might lead.
Belmont also taught me to be self-sufficient and believe in myself. I learned to focus on what I’m good at, work on the things I can improve, and adapt to change.
Our thanks to Chris for sharing their experiences – would you like to feature as part of our Alumni of Belmont House School?
Please feel free to get in touch with Richard Doak via email: RDoak@belmontschool.co.uk
