What I REALLY Learnt at School - Alfredian Voices

In this episode over a Zoom call, Tamlyn Worrall speaks with Wendy Jago, a psychotherapist, teacher, and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) practitioner. Wendy shares insights from her career, discussing the practical applications of NLP and her long-standing desire to create NLP resources for children. She reflects on her time at King Alfred School, recounting vivid memories of influential teachers, unique projects, and the school’s philosophy that emphasized independence, trust, and community. Wendy also delves into her family's educational values, particularly her father's belief in progressive education, which led her to attend King Alfred. Throughout the episode, Wendy offers anecdotes from her professional journey, including her experiences teaching English and training new teachers, as well as stories from her student days, such as writing a 90-page essay on Shakespearean kingship. This reflective conversation sheds light on the lasting impact of King Alfred School on its students and highlights the importance of nurturing individual growth through education.

How does a "painfully shy" student who struggled with O-Level English end up leading global communications for Coca-Cola? In this episode, Development Director Tamlyn Worrall sits down with Carol Essex (OA 1986) to trace a journey that spans from the pottery classroom of North London to the boardrooms of Bahrain and the communities of central Africa.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of creativity, business, and social impact.The Power of Curiosity: How the "King Alfred’s spirit" gave Carol the confidence to skip university and dive straight into the London advertising scene of the 80s.The Global Nomad: Life in Saudi Arabia, Los Angeles, and Casablanca—and why a KAS background makes you "unphasable" in any culture.The "Physics" Moment: A tribute to the legendary John Peisley and the day science finally clicked.Redefining Success: Why Carol’s school reports didn’t define her, and why she values "the art of argument" over prescriptive testing.The "Happy Place" Memory: > "I can still feel the warmth and smell the ink of the lino print room. It’s a comforting thought to think back to those rooms—isn’t that what every parent wants for their kid?"

In this episode, Old Alfredian Ali Kazimi sits down with Tamlyn Worrall to reflect on a transformative journey through King Alfred School.Arriving with limited English and navigating a completely new cultural landscape, Ali shares how the school’s ethos of respect, individuality, and open discussion helped him find his voice. From lively debates to unexpected moments of encouragement, these formative years shaped his confidence, values, and global perspective.Ali explores:The power of being heard—even when you’re still finding the wordsWhy diversity of thought matters more than “right answers”How a holistic education builds confidence beyond academicsThe lasting impact of feeling included rather than judgedA thoughtful and often nostalgic conversation about identity, belonging, and the kind of education that stays with you for life.

In this episode of What I Learned at School - Alfredian Voices, Heather Roberts has an informal conversation with Old Alfredian Dana Karic, Class of 2003, about her enduring memories and experiences at King Alfred School. Dana reminisces about building the first treehouse with her peers and constructing a boat, highlighting both the physical scars and the pride these projects brought.She delves into the invaluable lesson of critical thinking and checking sources, imparted by her teachers. Dana expresses concern for today's youth who might be swayed by false information on social media. She also recalls her involvement in various school activities, from the Phoenix Theatre opening to participating in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Dana's anecdotes paint a vivid picture of a unique and supportive educational environment that nurtured independent thought and creativity.Lastly, she shares how her family's move to England and their initial interactions with King Alfred School left a lasting positive impression, leading to the creation of a similarly inspired school in Serbia.

In episode 17 of Alfredian Voices, Stephen Brandes (OA 1971) speaks with Tamlyn about his profound experiences at the King Alfred School. Stephen recounts his late entry into the School at age 12, navigating the tightly knit KAS community, but still being warmly welcomed and forming lasting friendships with fellow Alfredians. As a former council member and past parent as well, Stephen is an Alfredian through and through. He shares cherished memories of the school's buildings and grounds, highlighting his involvement with council and the Grounds and Building Committee. As a career architect, Stephen astutely reflects on the aesthetic and environmental importance of the School's architecture and open spaces. Later in life, Stephen sent his own children, Humfrey and Bertie, to KAS. Like Stephen, they too love KAS to this day. This episode paints a vivid picture of the KAS legacy and the vision for its future.Stephen and Tamlyn recorded this episode outside in the gardens of the King Alfred School, during the school day. The voices of children, the School and indeed London itself are audible throughout.