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"My experiences have taught me that it is the qualities that make you different that hold intrinsic value - far more than the pursuit of conformity."

Name: Sam Worthington

Time at Congleton High School: 2014-2021

Current role: Currently reading Philosophy, Politics and Economics at Durham University and on industrial placement year with HSBC. Also appointed as CHS School Governor in June 2023.

What Are Your Memories of Congleton High School?

During my tenure at Congleton High School, amidst periods of great transformation, my vivid recollections of exceptional education and dedicated academics remain consistent. Studying Government and Politics, History and Mathematics, as well as an Economics EPQ, at A Level, I was privileged to be taught by some of the very best teachers who, to this day, have had a profound impact upon my life. Their commitment breathed life into my subjects, providing tailored and effective support that culminated in me securing a place at a Russell Group University and on the trajectory which I find myself.

Yet, beyond the academic rigours, my most treasured moments were in the classroom with my peers - particularly during science lessons. Learning with such kind students and doing exciting experiments, with the occasional light-hearted mishap, remains a highlight etched in my memory. While these incidents may have been to the frustration of the teacher, they were the pinnacle of excitement for us, fostering an environment where laughter and learning seamlessly intertwined.

With great fondness, I remember our annual sports days. Although not particularly inclined to sports myself, I remember representing my form in the high jump amongst those from other forms and years. These occasions were a wonderful opportunity for people, who perhaps would not come together otherwise, to collectively support their team with fun and laughter.

Route After CHS:

Since departing Congleton High School in 2021, I began my degree reading Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) at John Snow College, Durham University, in addition to embarking on an Industrial Placement year with HSBC UK in the Agricultural Business Banking sector as an analyst.

Having always had a passion for community engagement, I am a founding committee member of Congleton Pride, represent youth, faith and LGBT+ peoples on Cheshire Constabulary’s Independent Advisory Group and have recently been appointed a School Governor at Congleton High School. My ardour for such community involvement continues to be a driving force in my personal and professional journey.

My foray into the political domain has been equally dynamic. I was afforded the unique opportunity to work with the Conservative Party in Westminster during the Summer of 2022, a highly turbulent and volatile period, where I subsequently secured a Leadership Officer position organising hustings and the Leadership Election. Although brief, I had the opportunity to work for the Rt Hon Liz Truss MP in her Tours and Operations Department during her tenure as Prime Minister. Most recently in the May 2023 local elections, I was a candidate in the Congleton Town Council and Cheshire East Borough Council elections where I cumulatively gained over 1000 votes.

Anticipating a return to Durham University in 2024 to conclude my degree, my aspirations extend towards postgraduate education, envisaging a Master’s in Philosophy. Whilst my exact career trajectory remains unclear, my ultimate ambition steadfastly remains: securing a seat in the House of Commons.  

What Advice Would You Give Your Younger Self?

Looking back, I wish that I embraced my individuality and diverse perspectives more, elements that set one apart in a sea of uniformity. Through university and work life, my experiences have taught me that it is the qualities that make you different that hold intrinsic value - far more than the pursuit of conformity. Being a leader, as opposed to a follower, who is unafraid of being different is one of the very best virtues that will afford many more unique experiences and insights.

Having the privilege of attended such an exceptional school, I wish that I had tapped into the wealth of knowledge and guidance my teachers offered. Engaging with them, whether to discuss lesson content on a deeper level, or to seek advice on important issues, I now realise, is such an invaluable opportunity. Now recognising the profound impact teachers have on students during their formative years, my advice to my younger self would me to pick their brains and engage with them more.

Another piece of advice I would give my younger self is to take advantage of the plethora of opportunities that are out there. Engaging in work experience, participating in youth groups or volunteering initiatives offer not only a tangible advantage in university and job application but, more significantly, an invaluable trove of insights gained from stepping beyond one’s comfort zone. It is these very experiences that provide the unique knowledge required for success!

Above all else, it is imperative to continually pursue personal and professional development. Whether that be via career changes, taking a risk or trying something new, it is important to keep the motivation of elevation going. Similarly, introspection is vital. Reflecting on your success but also, and more importantly, your failures serve to allow for such growth.

In embracing the thesis of continual growth, my Durham college’s motto encapsulates the ethos of aspiring to the pinnacle: Per Scientiam et Prudentiam Quaere Summam - to seek the highest through knowledge and wisdom.