Former student returns to inspire our 2015 leavers

From recruitment consultant to science teacher… former student Conor Ferguson has had a rather varied career path so far, but he says he’s never forgotten his experience at Christ the King.

“After the inspiring teachers here, I decided to go into teaching,” Conor told attendees at our recent Evening of Celebration.

As a former student of Christ the King who’s now working at St Thomas More Catholic Comprehensive, one of our partner schools, we were delighted to invite Conor back to speak to current students as part of our annual awards ceremony.

He spoke to students about his career since leaving Christ the King back in 2011, imparting his wisdom on our 2015 leavers.

From CTK to university

Having graduated from Christ the King back in 2011, Conor went straight on to study at Queen Mary University of London.

“I wish I could tell you some stories of living away from home, and living in halls, but I stayed at home so unfortunately I can’t,” he told our students and staff.

“But I’m sure you will enjoy it. Remember that in some universities the first year isn’t worth much, but working in that first year certainly will make sure that you’re ready for years two and three.”

Staying at home during his university studies meant Conor was able to carry on his extensive extra-curricular activities, which eventually led him to his first graduate position.

University and beyond

During his time at Christ the King Conor undertook a number of volunteer positions and work placements, including one at Lewisham Hospital. Gaining hands-on experience in the Paediatric unit, A&E and Outpatients unit, amongst others.

Aside from giving him invaluable real-world experience, the placement led to a role within the recruitment team at the hospital – a role which Conor continued throughout university.

“After I finished my degree I continued within my role in medical recruitment at Lewisham hospital. They closed down our department when they merged with Woolwich hospital, so I went to work for a medical recruitment agency,” he said.

“Then it wasn’t until November that I had a phone call from Thomas More saying they need a science teacher.”

Returning to Christ the King

The rest, as they say, is history. Conor is now awaiting his final qualifications in order to obtain his Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), having trained on an assessment-only programme at Thomas More.

He used his speech to our 2015 leavers to show that there is more than one way into teaching, and that without work experience he wouldn’t be where he is today.

He said: “It is the work experience that I think is so important, to make sure you know the industry that you want to go into and to help you once you graduate. It is so competitive, so it is certainly one thing to consider.”

Well said, Conor!