School visit from star a surprise Twist
Singer-songwriter passes on tips to students
STUDENTS at the Global Academy were treated to a surprise visit from one of the world’s hottest male solo artists, Nathan Sykes.
Fresh from his performance on The X Factor, Nathan took time out from promoting his debut solo album, Unfinished Business, to meet students at the new state school in Hayes.
The Global Academy was set up by Ashley Tabor, founder of media and entertainment group, Global, and opened in September.
The school is preparing students for careers in the broadcast and digital media industries and provides academic and vocational training for 14 to 19-year-olds.
The big surprise came when special guest Mr Sykes walked into the
STAR MAN: school assembly hall and took part in a 60-minute question and answer session with students, hosted by school principal Simon Collins. TJG1ST
Students asked the singer songwriter a host of questions covering how he got into the industry, where he draws his inspiration and who is the most famous person among his contacts.
During the visit, Mr Sykes was given a tour of the Global Academy’s broadcast and digital media facilities, including TV, radio and mixing studios.
When asked what he would be doing if he wasn’t a singer-songwriter, Mr Sykes said: “I’d probably teach. I think it’s really inspiring to watch people go on their own journey. I’d love to help people identify what they’re into and develop their talents.
Nathan continued: “This morning has been great fun and brought back memories of my own school days. To see how passionate the students and teachers are THE GANG AND COOL: HEADLINERS: INSPIRING: about the industry is really inspiring. It was great to be able to share my experiences with the students and I hope my advice can go some way to helping the students realise their dreams.”
Principal Mr Collins said: “To see the excitement on the students’ faces when Nathan walked into our assembly was a reminder of why the Global Academy is just so incredibly special.
“Nathan kindly took the time to share his advice on working in the music industry and I know the students found it a hugely rewarding session and are grateful for his insights.”
Students learn the practical and technical skills needed to help them secure jobs in radio and TV production, broadcast engineering, app and web development, script writing, event management, radio production, broadcast journalism and other professions.
This year the Global Academy took 200 students and by 2020, it will reach its 800 capacity.
To find out more about the school and to attend an open day, visit: globalacademy.com.