22nd Oct 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 list of thoughtful questions that we ask our alumni focusing on their lives, successes, and the school’s influence.
Name: Josh Walton BSc PhD
Time period as a pupil at Belmont House: 2002 – 2011
Current Occupation: Mathematical Modeller
In what ways did your experience at Belmont House School help to shape your personal and professional development?
My time at Belmont House School played a crucial role in shaping my career path. The strong academic foundation I gained, particularly in mathematics, physics, and chemistry, laid the groundwork for my future as an engineer and private tutor. The motivation and training I received from my teachers – especially in critical thinking, problem-solving, and mental discipline—were instrumental in helping me develop the skills essential for my career, where logical thinking, technical knowledge, and communication are key.
Could you tell us about the path you have taken since leaving Belmont, and how your time at the school prepared you for those next steps?
After leaving Belmont House School, I studied Mathematics and Physics at the University of Strathclyde from 2011-2015, graduating with First Class Honours. My interest in applied mathematics and physics led me to pursue a PhD in the mathematical modelling of liquid crystals – a multidisciplinary field combining physics, mathematics, and engineering. After completing my PhD in 2020, I worked in a range of research roles, continuing in the field of liquid crystals in collaboration with experimental scientists. Since 2021, I have been employed as a Mathematical Modeller at Xi Engineering Consultants in Edinburgh, where I develop advanced simulations and undertake high-precision measurements, mainly in noise and vibrations, to support both engineering and environmental projects. Belmont was instrumental in laying the groundwork for my career, providing a strong academic foundation and the encouragement of dedicated, inspiring teachers.
Are there particular teachers, subjects, or experiences at Belmont that you feel made a lasting impact on you?
I was very fortunate to be taught by many outstanding teachers during my time at Belmont, even in subjects that didn’t come naturally to me. Given my natural interest in science, I was especially inspired by my teachers in mathematics, physics, and chemistry. They consistently challenged and supported me, encouraging a balance of critical thinking and logical problem-solving that has stayed with me ever since. I also greatly valued Belmont’s emphasis on academic discipline, which equipped me well for the challenges of university and beyond. The school’s structured yet supportive environment helped me build confidence and take responsibility for my own learning.
What guidance would you offer to current Belmont pupils as they look ahead to their future studies and careers?
Focus on building a solid foundation in your subjects, while also prioritising the development of your problem-solving and communication skills – these are critical in any career. Take the initiative to seek out opportunities, whether through work experience, summer programmes, or simply exploring topics that interest you through independent research. Don’t hesitate to reach out and have conversations with people working in fields you’re curious about – even one brief discussion can open doors to valuable insights or opportunities you might not have considered. Career paths can be unpredictable, so stay open-minded, keep learning, and take full advantage of the support and networks around you. And finally, if you’re unsure about your exact direction after school life, that’s completely normal. Becoming a noise and vibrations engineer wasn’t something I had planned when I left school and university, yet has been the perfect career fit for me. I would be happy to discuss my journey and experience to anyone interested – my e-mail is josh_walton_7@hotmail.co.uk
What does being part of the Belmont House School alumni community mean to you today?
Being part of the Belmont House School alumni community reminds me of where my journey started. The school gave me a solid foundation and helped me build and develop the skills I use in my career. It’s also a way to stay connected and support current students as they prepare for their own futures. Without the help and support of the staff during my time at Belmont, I would not be where I am today.
Our thanks to Josh 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
