Legendary TV producer inspires pupils to study Classics

Last Friday we welcomed one of the UK’s leading TV producers to the Vaughan to give an inspirational speech urging pupils to study Classics at University.

Jimmy Mulville is the Managing Director of Hat Trick Productions, one of the UK’s most successful TV production companies, responsible for shows including Have I Got News For You. He is also Chairman of Classics for All, an organisation established to promote the teaching of Classics in UK state schools. Cardinal Vaughan is one of only 3% of state schools in the UK to offer Classics.

After attending his local comprehensive school in Liverpool, Jimmy read French and Classics at Jesus College, Cambridge. A stint as the President of the famous Cambridge Footlights helped lead to a successful careers as a comedian and later, setting up Hat Trick Productions. He passionately believes in Classics as an ‘engine for social mobility’ and credits studying it at University as having a major impact on his life and career. 

In a session chaired by Head of Classics Ms Davies-Evitt, Jimmy shared his story with pupils currently studying Classics at GCSE and A Level, followed by a lively and engaging Q&A with a panel made up of Sixth Formers Oliver, Francesca G, Francesca K and Patrick. Following the session, dozens of pupils stayed behind to speak more with Jimmy.

Mr Stubbings, Headmaster, says: “Jimmy’s passion for Classics is infectious, and you could see how much he inspired pupils with his story about the impact it has had on his life. It’s fantastic that the Vaughan can attract speakers of his calibre and our pupils are fortunate to be able to learn from his insights. Thank you to Ms Davies-Evitt for making it happen and chairing the session.” 

Thank you to Classics for All and Jimmy’s team at Hat Trick Productions for making the session possible.