As part of our ongoing Futures Programme, we run a series of Careers Conversations, with 3 to 4 experts of varying experience to share their career journey and advice with students.
Around 60 students from Years 9-13 enjoyed an inspiring start to the term at the latest Careers Conversation, part of the School’s Futures Programme, which this month shone a spotlight on the diverse and dynamic world of the creative industries.
We were delighted to welcome three accomplished professionals to the Senior Library: Emma Black, (GDST alumna) Head of Artistic Planning at the National Opera Studio; Camilla Morton (WHS alumna), journalist, author and editor; and artist Rose McGinn. Sharing their personal career journeys, the panellists offered practical advice, honest reflections and plenty of encouragement for students considering creative pathways.
A key message throughout the discussion was that careers are rarely linear. Camilla spoke about the value of “portfolio careers”, where multiple roles and interests can complement one another. She encouraged students to remain open-minded, explore different opportunities and embrace unexpected turns along the way. “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket,” she advised, highlighting the importance of resilience, curiosity and self-discovery.
Emma reflected on the role that university, travel and professional networks played in shaping her career. She reminded students that networking often begins with peers and contemporaries, not just established professionals, and emphasised the importance of organisation, authenticity and building a strong reputation.
Rose shared her experiences as a practising artist, encouraging students to take initiative and create opportunities for themselves. Recalling how a simple email to an artist she admired led to valuable work experience, she highlighted the importance of trusting your instincts, developing a broad range of skills and being someone others enjoy working with.
The session concluded with an engaging Q&A, during which students asked thoughtful questions about higher education, networking, balancing creative ambitions with practical considerations, and standing out in a competitive industry.
The conversation was a valuable reminder that there is no single route into a creative career. Instead, success often comes through embracing new opportunities, cultivating strong relationships and having the confidence to follow your own path.
A strong network
It’s all about connections – we were delighted that Emma Black, sister of Zoë who works at Wimbledon High School, was able to join us to share her insights about life as Head of Artistic Planning at the National Opera Studio. Both are alumnae of Nottingham Girls’ High School!
Independent School of the Year Awards 2026 - Student Careers
We’re delighted to share that Wimbledon High School GDST has been commended in the Independent Schools of the Year 2026 Awards in the Student Careers category.
This recognition reflects our commitment to preparing every student for life beyond school—empowering them to explore their ambitions, develop confidence, and make informed choices about their futures.
TE Awards for Innovation in Education 2026 - Support for life beyond school
Wimbledon High School is a FINALIST in the 2026 Talk Education Awards in the Support for life beyond school category:
Instead of telling us how many pupils got into their first-choice university, we want to know what schools are doing to help ensure pupils are fully prepared to bid goodbye to their school bubble and tackle an increasingly competitive further education market head on.