Alfredian Voices Podcast
We can all remember our school days – the highs, lows, achievements, and challenges. But what we learn and the experiences that shape us are different for everyone.
In our podcast series, we bring you the voices of former students here at The King Alfred School (known as Old Alfredians or OAs), a school that has stood out from the crowd for the past 125 years for delivering a deeper learning experience. Their stories show the positive impact schools can have when they are bold, innovative and – crucially – take a child-centred approach to education.
Below you’ll find a playlist containing every episode so far, along with profiles of the OAs featured in our three most recent episodes. You can also watch a video recording of each podcast on our YouTube channel.
We are grateful to the OAs who have shared their stories, allowing us to bring our school’s vibrant history alive. Our 125th anniversary book, full of photographs from our archive, complements the stories in this series.
All episodes
Episode 11: Richard Thomas
In this episode, Tamlyn sits down with alum Richard Thomas. Known for directing early instalments of Doctor Who, Richard shares vivid memories from his time at KAS, including learning calligraphy, his experiences with teachers like Renée Soskin and Miss Marsh, and how attending the school helped him flourish after struggling in earlier education. He also reflects on his career, including his role in the film Brief Encounter, his work with the BBC, and his adaptation of a Strindberg play.
This heartfelt conversation takes place in Richard’s home, offering a personal glimpse into his journey from student to successful director and the enduring influence of his school days.
Episode 10: Helen Craig
In this episode, Helen Craig (OA 1950), renowned for her work on the Angelina Ballerina children’s book series, reflects on her school days and the major influences that shaped her artistic career.
This detailed narrative offers a deeper dive into Craig’s educational experiences, the challenges she faced, and the inspirations she drew which set the foundation for her future work.
From her vivid memories of wartime education at Flint Hall Farm during evacuation to her later years at King Alfred School in Golders Green, Helen provides an evocative account of how these formative years contributed significantly to her becoming a celebrated children’s book illustrator.
Episode 9: Ian Lush OBE
Ian Lush OBE (OA 1978) reflects on his challenging but fulfilling time as CEO of Imperial Health Charity and Chair of NHS Charities Together in this episode, recorded on Zoom during the pandemic.
Ian shares his experiences managing a charity campaign amidst unprecedented circumstances. As Chair, Ian led the charity’s national fundraising campaign with the late Captain Sir Tom Moore and helped raise over £155 million for the NHS.
Ian reminisces about his 14 years at KAS, emphasising how the school taught him to be part of a community. “ It was very much about wanting to make a difference,” he shares.
