A highlight of the recent Saint Paul’s Aspirations Day was a visit from renowned broadcaster and journalist Gamal Fahnbulleh, and this time it was Gamal who was put under the spotlight for a change when he was questioned by a student panel on his career and life.
During the session, Gamal shared his career journey and offered motivational advice. As the anchor for ITV Granada Reports and a regular presenter for ITV Network bulletins, including News at Ten, Fahnbulleh’s address gave students a powerful glimpse into the world of journalism and media.
Gamal commented: “I thoroughly enjoyed spending the day with the pupils at St Paul’s RC High School. The Year 11 students were engaged, curious, and demonstrated a genuine appetite to learn about the media industry. They are a real credit to the school.
The questions they asked during the afternoon session were thought-provoking and, at times, delightfully challenging. I have no doubt there are some future award-winning journalists among them!”
Gamal’s colleague, David Chisnall, commented: “It was great to be able to speak to Year 11 students from St Paul’s giving them an insight into our industry and the different roles that make up our ITV Granada Reports newsroom.
The students really engaged with the sessions we did and it was brilliant to see them so enthusiastic to take part in their own news ‘lives’ whether that be as the reporter, the camera operator or the interviewee.”
The event was designed to help the Year 11 students explore future career paths and raise their ambitions. During the day, students were invited to reflect on life beyond school and gain valuable insights from alumni and professionals representing a wide range of industries. Through a series of engaging workshops, students were introduced to careers in Entrepreneurship, Construction, Social Work, Aviation, Hospitality, Law Enforcement, Media, Sport, and Screen & Stage.
Reflecting on the event, Miss Fannon, Assistant Headteacher, said:
“Aspirations Day gave our students a real insight into the world beyond school. It was fantastic to see them so engaged, asking thoughtful questions, and beginning to visualise their future pathways.”
Mr Whiteside, Headteacher at Saint Paul’s, added:
“This event is all about opening doors and expanding horizons. By connecting with former students and industry professionals, our students were able to see what’s possible and feel inspired to aim high. The energy and motivation they brought back into school the next day was amazing.”
Feedback from our workshop speakers included:
‘Your aspirations day is one of the highlights out of all of the schools and colleges we attend’
‘It was brilliant to come back, staff were excellent and the pupils were a credit to the school.’
‘Engaged students and some really good ideas and teamwork. all very polite and welcoming. pleasure to work with.’
‘Such brilliant students, bright minds who should have every opportunity to learn more about entrepreneurship.’
Feedback from our students included:
‘I loved it – was really good and helped me understand what I want to do in the future.’
‘I liked the Granada News because they had interesting jobs i didn’t know of before.’
‘It was a nice experience and it was helpful.’
‘Made me have a good understanding on what I want to do when I leave school.’
‘I really enjoyed it and it was a inspirational day my favourite was law’
‘Entrepreneurship was my favourite it was so engaging and fun.’
Aspirations Day remains a cornerstone of Saint Paul’s commitment to preparing students for bright and successful futures—empowering them to dream big and take confident steps toward their goals.