28th 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 a series of thoughtful questions that we ask our alumni focusing on their lives, successes, and the school’s influence.
Name: Holly McLelland
Time period as a pupil at Belmont House: 2014 – 2016
Current Occupation: English as a Foreign Language Teacher in Palma, Mallorca
How did your time at Belmont House School shape your career path?
Even though I was only at Belmont for two years, the school played a key role in helping me shape my future. The support I received during my application process for further education helped me think clearly about what I wanted to pursue next. It wasn’t just about the academics — Belmont gave me the space and guidance to explore my interests, which helped me make confident decisions about my next steps after school. I went on to study Spanish at university and later moved out to Spain to pursue a career as an EFL teacher
Can you share a key moment or memory from your time at Belmont that had a lasting impact on you?
One of my fondest memories is the close-knit atmosphere of the school. Everyone knew each other, and that made the environment feel like a second family. I particularly remember how approachable the teachers were—they always made time for you and genuinely cared about your progress. It’s a sense of connection and support I’ll never forget. A specific moment that stands out is a conversation I had with Mr. Doak. He told me that I would make a great teacher one day, and at the time, I completely dismissed the idea—I had no intention of becoming a teacher. It is amazing to know how well the teachers at Belmont really knew us as individuals.
What skills or lessons learned at Belmont have been most valuable in your professional life?
Belmont’s friendly, family-like atmosphere made me feel so comfortable and supported. It helped me grow in confidence and just be myself, which is something I really value to this day.
In what ways did Belmont House School’s community or culture contribute to your personal growth?Belmont taught me to believe in myself, to work with people from all walks of life, and to never judge a book by its cover. The school’s inclusiveness and supportive environment left a lasting impact on me.
Can you describe how Belmont’s teachers or extracurricular activities helped shape your future ambitions?The teachers at Belmont were incredibly approachable and supportive. During the final years, they really helped me stay focused and gave me the encouragement I needed to push myself, which made all the difference.
What advice would you give to current Belmont students who want to follow a similar path to yours?
Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone! Learning a new language or moving to a new country can seem daunting, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Take advantage of Belmont’s supportive community — ask questions, seek advice, and make the most of the opportunities around you. Building strong relationships and developing good communication skills will take you far, no matter where life leads you.
Looking back, how do you feel Belmont House School prepared you for the challenges and opportunities you’ve faced in life?
Looking back, Belmont gave me the confidence to believe in myself and take on challenges I might have otherwise shied away from. The support from both teachers and school friends helped me grow into someone who’s not afraid to step out of my comfort zone. Looking back, Belmont gave me the confidence to believe in myself and take on challenges I might have otherwise shied away from. The support from both teachers and school friends helped me grow into someone who’s not afraid to step out of my comfort zone.
Our thanks to Holly for sharing her 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
