On Thursday evening, pupils from Years 6 to 8 were privileged to attend a presentation given by parent and highly successful businessperson, James Murray. The talk focussed on what it takes to achieve one’s goals, kindness in dealing with others, hard work and overcoming challenges, like dyslexia.
Mr Murray was ably introduced by Seb as a highly accomplished and influential businessperson, and a leading UK IT/telco entrepreneur with a proven track record of business start-ups. He founded Alternative Networks, which went on to become a key partner to many of the main tech brands. He is a former winner of the prestigious Ernst & Young ‘Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award’ and he remains a keen advocate of entrepreneurism and the development and progress of business start-ups. He is also a passionate sponsor of special needs education and learning support.
Mr Murray shared much of his life stories with the students, starting with how challenging it was for him as a boy with dyslexia at a time when it was little understood or catered for. Many doors were shut to him because of this, but after trying his hand at several jobs, he eventually found what he enjoyed and what he was good at, and even began his own successful IT company.
The messages here were about optimism, hard work, overcoming challenges, kindness and learning how to deal with others who have a range of differing abilities. Mr Murray was extremely patient and fielded a wave of questions from the pupils, who were completely engaged by his story.
The talk was closed by Bobby who thanked Mr Murray for his time and for sharing so openly. She noted that the talk was both entertaining and inspiring and that students would take away much of what was said on leadership and think about how they could make an impact on those around them, as well as striving for their own fulfilment. This really was an incredibly special talk, and we are grateful to Mr Murray for this inspirational presentation.
03 Feb 2025 
