Holly Humphrey OQ (2013) has forged a fascinating career in the world of education HR, and recently founded her own startup company, Beyond Expectations.

Queenswood for me was not an easy ride from Years 7 to 11: I struggled academically and I found GCSEs exceptionally difficult. I honestly considered leaving for Year 12; however, Sixth Form at Queenswood changed everything for me.

Firstly, I had teachers that were passionate, dedicated and at the top of their field teaching me in small groups, so I got the bespoke, quality teaching I needed. In addition, the school helped get me diagnosed as dyslexic and helped me emotionally overcome the idea that I was struggling academically and unlock my true potential.

I went from a B student to an A* student within a year, achieving top grades in my AS History and then getting A*AA at A-Level, which got me into Bristol to read English Literature.

Although Queenswood prepared me academically, in my career I’ve found the soft skills to be most useful. We were given opportunities in the Sixth Form to attend city networking events and this really helped me to learn the skills I now use to close clients and build the relationships that have made my business successful. In addition, the independent study skills I learnt at Queenswood better prepared me for university, and since then I’ve also studied independently for a professional qualification.

I have now become an HR specialist in the education field and have founded a small startup, and I can honestly say that without Queenswood Sixth Form I would not be here today.