Arts and Creative Industries Reception

On December 1st 2014, the Development and Alumni Relations Office and the OMT Society held their inaugural Arts and Creative Industries Networking event at the Oriental Club, Stratford Place. The event provided an opportunity for Old Merchant Taylors, parents and parents of OMTs working within these industries to come together to socialise, network and catch up with old friends and teachers. 

With 70 people in attendance, the event was a huge success. Before the event had got into full swing, third year architecture student Mikhil Haria (OMT 2012), had already secured a placement year with Julian Seabrook (OMT 1988) at his firm Seabrook Architects LLP; just one example of how productive these evenings can be. 

The Head Master, Simon Everson, spoke about the importance of nurturing creativity at the School, allowing each boy’s individual talent to come to the fore, rather than just focussing on academia. He also highlighted My Merchant Taylors, which amongst other things, hosts an online careers directory that over 550 OMTs and parents have signed up for, and many more did on the evening. This is an example of the opportunities that Merchant Taylors’ provides its OMTs long after they have left the School. 

Our guest speaker for the evening, Philip Simon (OMT 1997) – a stand-up comedian and actor – spoke about his experiences both at Merchant Taylors’ School and beyond. He cited how much he enjoyed his time at School, and the confidence it gave him to take risks in his career in order to find what he truly enjoyed doing. He also told a very amusing story about his english teacher, Mr Green, who inspired him a great deal, while also challenging him on whether he should continue the subject at a-level. He also echoed Simon Everson’s sentiments about the School allowing him to immerse himself in drama; something he enjoyed far more than academia and rugby.

If you missed the Arts and Creative Industries event this year and would like to attend in future, please do get in touch. Whether you work in these industries or not, if you let us know what your current role is, it will enable us to shape future sector-specific networking and social opportunities. Please contact the Development Director, Nick Latham, by email (nlatham@mtsn.org.uk) or telephone (01923 845 545) who will be delighted to hear from you.

Back to list of previous events.