These lectures are a wonderful addition to our programme of stretch and challenge and also serve a dual purpose of exposing our senior pupil community to a wider range of career options than they might otherwise see. This week, we were delighted to welcome former pupil, Théa Deacon, to speak to us about her journey into professional music since leaving us after A levels. Théa described herself as a typical ‘average’ student when she was at the high school. Staff who knew her and worked with her during her time here might challenge that self perception, but it is certainly true to say that she is no average musician, and her career path has been anything but ‘average’.

Following successfully gaining her A levels at the High School, Théa opted for a route into Music via a Conservatoire rather than a traditional University route. She had been heavily involved in the music department here and we fondly remember her contribution to a variety of musical performances during her time at the school. Théa will be most remembered, I am sure, for her beautiful singing voice and her forward thinking approach to composition. Both of which are skills she utilised on a daily basis for many aspects of her work. Her hard work and dedication to her music has given her multiple opportunities to develop her skills through study, completing her masters degree in 2024 and embarking on the first stages of a PHD over the last few months.

Théa spoke to our senior pupils this week about how her career is now forming. Not from a single vocation, but from a portfolio of different pursuits that build a varied and exciting set of opportunities to engage with over time. In an ever-changing professional landscape, the concept of a “portfolio career” has emerged as an appealing alternative to the traditional vocational career. A portfolio career refers to a career path where individuals engage in multiple streams of work simultaneously, rather than committing to a single, long-term job. This approach often combines freelancing, part-time roles, passion projects, and entrepreneurial ventures. In contrast, a traditional vocational career typically involves following a linear progression within one profession or organisation. While both paths have their merits, a portfolio career offers distinct advantages in flexibility, skill development, and resilience to economic changes.

It gives me great pleasure to share a small clip, linked here, of her performing recently in China as part of a Choral Celebration. I’m sure you will agree that the quality of music here is just outstanding and we are so proud of all she has accomplished, both at the High School and beyond in her new and exciting portfolio career. Huge thanks to Théa for her lecture this week and we look forward to continuing to work with her in the future. 

To read more, please see here.

Miss Kneen
Deputy Head Pastoral