Years of Preparation (Part 3)- A Passion For Making A Difference

We were very honoured that former pupil Mr Angus Russell, CEO of Shire Plc, accepted our invitation to return to Bablake as our guest of honour at the 2012 Prize-Giving.

Mr Russell left Bablake in 1974 with an initial desire to study architecture or pharmacy. His path took him into accountancy via Coventry University and a number of leading firms before he was asked to be Chief Financial Officer of Shire Plc. Five years ago he took on the role of Chief Executive Officer and Shire Plc is now firmly in the top 40 companies in the UK with an impressive portfolio across the globe.

Before Prize-Giving, Mr Russell led a twilight session with 6th formers interested in business, management and science which was very well received. He spoke with passion about his work at Shire, talking openly about the challenges and ethics involved.

Mr Russell's years of preparation and dedication to his professional career have been driven by a passion for making a difference. He explained in his speech to our prize winners that money, popularity and fame do not bring success and happiness.

Doing the right thing in life, having a clear sense of responsibility, being brave and loving what you do however give you every chance of making a difference and this leads to happiness. He urged everyone to follow the Confucius adage that if you choose a job you love, you'll never work another day in your life!

Mr Russell praised Bablake for making him feel he was an achiever but instilling in him the sense that he could make a difference in society through his self-confidence. He also praised the quality of the teaching received.

One of our school captains Maneesha Sehgal thanked Mr Russell for his inspiring words and correctly referred to him as a fine role model for the next generation of Bablake pupils.

Earlier in the Headmaster's report on 2012, Maneesha's fellow captain Ben Evans had been one of a small group of pupils who were asked to describe some of their highlights of the year.

The whole evening was opened by Richard Atkins QC, Chairman of the Governors, and a number of our top musicians entertained everyone before the proceedings and during the interval.