Alan Laurent

Current Employer/Organisation Name

Retired.

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

I have been teaching for nearly 40 years the last 14 of which as a Headmaster of an independent prep school.

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

I have a natural love for supporting young people and I found that being in the classroom really suited me.

Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?

I represented the College (St Luke’s) at football and athletics and was an active member of the Hungarian exchange.

What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?

The practical “in school” experience which persuaded me that teaching was indeed the career for me. I also studied comparative education with the Hungarian exchange being a highlight.

What did you enjoy most about studying here?

The friends I made, the City itself, the experiences I gained.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

I wanted to get away from my home town but I didn’t want to go too far and wanted to stay in the South. Once I visited St Luke’s it was an obvious choice for someone with a passion for sport.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

Learning to listen and know that everyone has something interesting to say.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

Make sure that it is indeed what you want to do, if it is then you will never work a day in your life!

What are your plans for the future?

I am still doing a little consultancy and some volunteering.