Joey’s Story

Joey, who left in 2016 told us how Ratcliffe helped to shape him into the person he is today:

What was it like studying at Ratcliffe?

The different opportunities that were made available to the students with the support and encouragement of the staff were second to none. While I was at Ratcliffe, I had the chance to play every sport under the sun whilst being able to utilise some of the best facilities on a daily basis, I performed in drama productions, sang in concerts, competed in national public speaking competitions, took part in CCF and completed Bronze, Silver and Gold DofE. I was also severely dyslexic when I was younger, to the extent that my mum thought I would scrape through GCSE’s and chance my arm at something more vocational. With the support of the School, I managed to achieve some of the top grades at A-Level in my year group.

What did you do after Ratcliffe?

Since leaving Ratcliffe I went to Exeter University where I studied Politics and was Chairman of the men’s hockey club amongst other things. I secured a grad job with KPMG and worked there for just over a year before moving across to BNP Paribas Real Estate where I now work. All of which would not have been possible without the grounding, education and opportunities that Ratcliffe provided me.

Would you say there’s anything which you learnt at Ratcliffe which you still carry with you today?

To take every opportunity, to be thankful for those opportunities and where possible, help people.

What would you say to others to encourage them to give money to support the Bursary Fund at Ratcliffe?

I was fortunate enough to meet the donor who supported me on one occasion when he travelled over from his residence in the US; during an incredibly genuine meeting, where he clearly cared for all in the room we had a lovely discussion about both our lives and his. He finished by saying “All I ask is that when you are older, please give back. It does not matter whether it is a small or a large amount, please just give whatever you can afford.” I am completely indebted to this stranger who enabled me to go to Ratcliffe, which had an unquantifiable impact on shaping me as a person.

For anyone who is in a position to do so or is considering giving to the Fund, I cannot encourage you enough. It is a piece of generosity that I will remember for the rest of my life.