We were very fortunate to welcome Richmond House alumni Flo and Talia back to school, where they delivered a wonderful and inspiring assembly to pupils in Years 3 to 6. Both spoke warmly about their time at Richmond House, sharing memories of the subjects and experiences that first sparked their interest in the creative arts. They reflected on how recognising their strengths at a young age helped shape the paths they later chose.
Talia spoke about her passion for performing arts, which began at school and led her to professional training, performances at the Edinburgh Fringe, and the founding of her business One Step Ahead. Through this work, she teaches singing and performing arts, leads workshops, and supports children and young people, including those with SEND, using music as a powerful tool for confidence and expression.
Flo shared how her love of art and design at school developed into further study at university and a career in costume design. She has since worked on a range of film and television productions, demonstrating the wide variety of career opportunities available within the creative industries.
Both alumni encouraged pupils to pursue what they love, believe in themselves, and understand that a subject they enjoy at school can become a meaningful and successful career. Their visit provided pupils with relatable role models who once sat in the same classrooms and are now thriving in creative professions.
Pupils were particularly delighted to see Mr Heaton, who taught both Flo and Talia during their time at Richmond House, wearing a fox head that Flo had created as part of a costume design project. This playful moment brought their stories to life and highlighted the lasting relationships between pupils and staff, as well as the creativity and craftsmanship behind Flo’s work.
Commenting on the visit, Mrs Young, Headteacher, said: “It was a joy to welcome Flo and Talia back to Richmond House. They were highly academic pupils who could have chosen many paths, but followed their passions, and it was wonderful to see how happy and fulfilled they are as a result. Talia is already having a hugely positive impact on young people through music, and Flo is a fantastic example of the breadth of opportunities available through art and design. Their visit was truly inspiring for our pupils.”
