27th Jan 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: Graeme Howie
Time period as a pupil at Belmont House: 1975 – 1981
Current Occupation: Network Analysis & Design & Infrastructure within Public Transport
How did your time at Belmont House School shape your career path?
I did not really apply myself at school to be honest and in turn did not achieve the grades I should’ve and as a result took a short-term work experience right after highers which then turned out to be a 25+ year career within Retail Management which I absolutely flourished in. Pure fate rather than shaping as I had no ambition or direction in which I wished to travel at that time.
Can you share a key moment or memory from your time at Belmont that had a lasting impact on you?
The pride at getting picked for both 1st teams in Rugby & Cricket & winning highly commended certificates 2 years running in The Royal Commonwealth Society Essay Competitions.
What skills or lessons learned at Belmont have been most valuable in your professional life?
Able to communicate effectively across levels of society and all ranks. Able to walk into any room and converse with anyone.
In what ways did Belmont House School’s community or culture contribute to your personal growth?
Personal confidence and social interaction and vitally. Plus, manners which are in short supply in the world today.
Can you describe how Belmont’s teachers or extracurricular activities helped shape your future ambitions?
In my time period it was career guidance was not really discussed.
What advice would you give to current Belmont students who want to follow a similar path to yours.
Screw the nut, respect your elders & apply yourselves fully – do not tolerate fools.
Looking back, how do you feel Belmont House School prepared you for the challenges and opportunities you’ve faced in life?
To a certain extent, yes, I am a strong believer in fate and if I had taken a different path, I do not think I would have the wonderful family I do now.
Our thanks to Graeme for sharing his 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
