I’m Lucy Baker and I left QE in 2014. I took a gap year to live and work in the Dominican Republic teaching English in a primary school supported by Scottish charity, Project Trust. Upon my return to the UK I got a place at Nottingham Trent University (NTU) to study BA (Hons) Spanish and International Development, a four year course including one year living and working in Spain, again teaching English, but this time to adults in a language academy. I graduated from NTU in summer 2019 with 2:1. In winter 2019/2020 I moved to France to work for a ski company as a chalet host and I’m now volunteering for Project Trust again with plans to spend a year working in Myanmar (as soon as government guidelines permit). After this I hope to begin a masters degree at the University of Leeds studying Global Development and International Political Economy!

My name’s Malcolm Glennie and I left QE in 2014, after which I went on to study History at Oxford University. I’m now working in London in executive search for the financial services sector but will soon be starting a new job in banking.

Emma Raine - BA Hons in Human Geography followed by MA in Town Planning. Now a planning officer at Newark and Sherwood district council. Left QE in 2012.

My name is Emily-Jane Ryde and I left QE in 2016. I then went on to university at the University of South Wales to study Geography with Geology from which I graduated in July 2019 with first class honours. In November 2019, I started working for Northumbrian Water as an apprentice water engineer and that is where I am currently!

I'm Elizabeth Lees and I left QE in 2017. I'm now studying Geography at University College London. I've just come back from my year abroad studying at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver and now will be going on to study my final year at UCL come September.

Amy Rutter - In my final year at QE, I wasn't sure if University was the right choice for me despite already applying and receiving 5 conditional offers. Instead I started an Apprenticeship at GSK as a Business Systems Analyst Support. After a year there, I decided that University was the right choice for me and reapplied for University with the help of the QE career advisers. I started studying BSc Geography and the University of Hull in 2016 and graduated in Summer 2019 with a first class honors degree. This summer I landed myself a job as an Outreach Facilitator at the Humber Outreach Programme which is partnership within the Uni Connect Scheme ran by the OfS. Pre Covid-19, I went into schools and colleges helping raise aspirations to consider Higher Education, focusing on those students from under-represented groups. I hope to go onto do my PGCE in Geography in the future.

Zoe Thompson, I left QE in 2014. I completed my BA in Politics and now I’m doing my MA in International Relations at University of Manchester.

My name is Hannah Wintle and I was a former geography student at QE ( I also studied geology and the two work hand in hand). I left the college in 2017. In the same year I moved to Newcastle to study architecture at university. I am currently finishing the year and still have a few to go as it is a 7 year course. I also work in a brewery part time and have had other jobs in the time too.

Oliver Rogers - I did Geography, Geology and ICT at QE, leaving in 2016. After leaving, I went onto to the University of Liverpool to gain a first class (Hons) degree in Geology & Physical Geography, then training as a Geography Teacher at Edge Hill University, and now having gained a job in September as a member of the geography department on the Isle of Man! I loved the Geography and Geology departments in QE!

I'm Ryan Baker and was a former Geography student who left QE in 2014. I've gone on to do an MSc in Disaster Management & Sustainable Development at Northumbria University. I am currently now employed by a company based just outside of Durham named RAB Consultants who work in Flood Resilience and Emergency Planning, in both the private and public sector. I am currently on secondment to Hackney Borough Council supporting their response to Covid-19.

Daniel Hawkswell - I left QE in 2019 and have since been successful in my application to Northumbria University to study Children's nursing. I am looking forward to starting my second year in September 2020. Geography has given me skills. The coursework and 20 mark essays have been particularly helpful in giving me a framework and structure for assignments at University.

Joshua Wolstenholme - I left QE in 2014 and went on to do my BSc in Geological Sciences at the University of Leeds. I graduated in 2017 with a 2.1 and started my Masters by Research also at the University of Leeds, graduating in 2018. The project revolved around better characterisation of surface runoff and infiltration in dryland environments and I now have a paper published from that work. After finishing my Masters, I started my PhD at the University of Hull where I am looking at how more sustainable forms of flood management (called natural flood management or working with natural processes) influences geomorphology and what that might mean for the efficacy of the flood management methods. I do this using high resolution survey equipment (terrestrial laser scanner/LiDAR and drones) which then gets put into a numerical model. I am assessing the model’s capability of simulating these structures and looking at what different catchment characteristics might mean for them in the future. While doing my PhD I have also been working on other projects including going to Peru to conduct fieldwork on high altitude glaciers. I am also employed at the University of Hull as a research assistant on the THYME project, a consortium between the Universities of Hull, York and Teesside looking at the bioeconomy in the region.

Chloe Nelson - I studied A level geography at QE (I left in 2016) and went on to Newcastle University to study BSc Geography graduating last summer. I now still study at Newcastle University doing MSc Hydrology/Hydrogeology and Water Management.

Lee Johnstone - Since leaving QE, I have gone on to complete a BSc Geography degree at Sheffield Hallam University and am currently in the process of completing a Teaching Assistant course - working at Hurworth School. I would just like to thank both Ian and Mark for their support during my dissertation, without them allowing me to come into QE to collect my data I have no idea what I would have done.

My name is Bethan Hacker, I left QE in 2015. I went on to study Geography Bsc at Durham University. I then took a gap year volunteering, and 6 months ago I began a graduate job as a Public Rights of Way Officer for North Yorkshire County Council’s Countryside Access Service. I am really enjoying it, it gets me out and about in the countryside as much or little as I want, I build bridges, mend stiles, use GIS based systems and deal with customer reports, calls and enquiries. I still live in Darlington and I love all things geography!

Jack Collishaw - Completed Bachelors in Geology and Physical Geography at Edge Hill University. Currently completing a Masters in Engineering Geology at Newcastle University.

I'm Tom Hague, I left QE in 2016 after getting an A in Geography A-Level (as well as Bs in History and Geology) and went on to do a Geography degree in Sheffield Hallam for the following 3 years. I graduated in 2019 with a 2:1 degree in BSc (Hons) Geography, and after a hard job search I'm working as a Production Operator at Horsley Water Treatment Works for Northumbrian Water, working a job whereby I help to provide the water to the Tyne and Wear area. I loved my time as a student at QE, and always credit the Geography staff (Simon, Mark and Ian at the time) as the best staff I had in my education!

Katie Hunter - I finished QE in 2013 and went on to study Human Geography at Newcastle University. I graduated in 2016 with First Class Honours and was awarded the Ed Sawyer Memorial Prize for best overseas dissertation following funding to visit Hong Kong and conduct dissertation research about the Yellow Umbrella Movement. Since uni I went travelling for 10 months and then started the M&S graduate scheme where I completed a years training and I’m currently a Store Manager for M&S.

My name is Georgia Broadbent and I left QE in 2016. I am currently studying a Masters in Leadership for Sustainable Development at Queen's University Belfast in Northern Ireland and am completing the current placement aspect of my course looking into industrial symbiosis. My undergraduate degree was in International Studies and Politics also at Queen's University Belfast. I am also looking for graduate employment currently.

My name is Lucy Gray, I left QE in 2015 and went to the University of Edinburgh to study joint honours Social & Architectural History (four year course). I'm now studying an MSc in Architectural Conservation also at Edinburgh whilst working for the Cockburn Association (Edinburgh Civic Trust), one of the oldest conservation and civic amenity societies in the world. We campaign for the conservation and enhancement of the city of Edinburgh, which includes the protection of green spaces and promotion of high quality urban design, sustainable urban infrastructure and transport systems and improved collaboration and consultation between developers, council and citizens. We also organise Doors Open Days (Heritage Open Day) for Edinburgh and East Lothian. My A Level in Geography definitely helps out working here - I love seeing how heritage issues intersect with other urban requirements and problems. I'm currently working on my master's dissertation on the adaptive reuse of railway goods sheds in North East England. When I finish in August, I'll be moving to Cambridge to start a new job as a Graduate Heritage Consultant for Mott Macdonald, an international development and engineering consultancy. I'm excited to see how heritage and historic buildings are approached in a global, commercial environment. I had such a lovely time at QE and geography definitely set me up well to think about the world the way I do.

I’m Ethan Capenhurst and I left in 2018. Currently working at Gestamp which is a tier 1 automotive supplier and I work as an assistant buyer. It is an apprenticeship and I’m studying towards a degree in management and in my second year! Currently planning my dissertation on sustainable sourcing.

Luke Hewitson - I attended the college between 2013-2015. I then pursued an undergraduate degree in Geography at Durham University, graduating with a 1^st Class degree in 2018. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Durham, including field trips to Nepal to study earthquake and landslide impacts on Kathmandu and a rural mountainous district (Sindhupalchowk). My research project in Nepal involved investigating the factors controlling landslide hazards along the Arniko Highway, the main (and only) road connecting Kathmandu to the Tibetan border and aimed to support the research that the Geography department have and are continuing to conduct since the 2015 7.8 Mw earthquake, which has severely damaged large parts of the country. Following graduation from Durham, I travelled to New Zealand and Australia. My time in New Zealand included a four month internship with the University of Canterbury (Christchurch), working on a variety of projects within the Geology department relating to natural hazards. These included investigating tsunami evacuation dynamics of populations in Christchurch and Kaikoura following the 2016 Kaikoura earthquakes, as well as testing the impact of volcanic ballistics on various roof structures using a pneumatic cannon. I am currently studying for a Masters degree in ‘Risk’ at Durham University, run by the Institute of Hazard, Risk and Resilience within the Geography department. My dissertation plans include working with Egger (global leader in chipboard manufacturing) in Hexham to develop and implement an in-house flood early-warning system, following devastating flooding in 2015 (Storm Desmond). I have fond memories of my time at QE in Geography.

Ashleigh Burton - I studied at QE between 2014 and 2016 with Mark and Simon as my teachers. I went on to do Environmental Geography at the University of Northumbria and achieved a first class degree. I’m now working and living in London as a Transport Planner.

My name is Jenni Douglas. I left QE in 2015 after studying Geography, Biology, Chemistry and Extended Project at A level. After leaving QE I spent 8 months in Australia from January-August 2016 where I volunteered at the Australian reptile park and completed my WIRES (wildlife rescue course). I spent time travelling the east coast and was lucky enough to visit Ayers Rock. In September of 2016 I started university at the University of South Wales where I studied International Wildlife Biology. I attended field courses in South Africa where we studied Big Game tracking and African Biodiversity, and Mexico where we studied Tropical Ecology. Geography was a pivotal part of my course throughout. I graduated in 2019 with a first class honours degree. From September 2019 until present I am volunteering and conducting research on a private game reserve in South Africa called Selati Game reserve. I am involved in Wildlife operations, game reserve management and monitoring of key species. I would recommend the reserve whole heartedly and would love to maybe set up a programme for individuals who want to get some field experience before heading into further education!

I'm Sebastian Reichel, I left QE in 2014 with my A levels, including an A level in Geography and had a fantastic time. I went on to study Environmental Science (Geography A level was a requirement) at Northumbria University, graduating with a 1st class honours. I worked abroad in Germany for half a year as an environmental project management assistant as part of my work placement to get my degree. This placement formed the backbone to the 'Experience' part of my CV, enabling me to land my graduate job at the University of Southampton, where I work as International Stakeholder Coordinator for an international sustainability project. I'm very grateful to QE for setting me up for my so far successful geographical career!

My name is Lucy Anderson and I left QE in June 2013. I achieved an A Grade in A Level Geography. I also gained A Levels in Biology and Maths. In September 2013, I enrolled on the Environmental Science (BSc) course at Sheffield Hallam University. This was a 4 year course including a Year in Industry Placement. My time at Sheffield was the best time of my life! I achieved a First Class Honours degree and met friends for life. The course itself was brilliant - lots of interesting fieldwork (including field trips to Czech Republic, Tenerife and the Dorset Coast, England), varied modules and inspiring and engaging lecturers. Being right on the edge of the Peak District allowed for lots of field work opportunities as well. I undertook a paid Year in Industry placement at Card Geotechnics Limited (CGL) in Harrogate, who are a geotechnical and environmental consultancy providing solutions to clients to manage their ground risks. I worked closely with Engineering Development Trust (EDT) who provided me with lots of extra opportunities to get involved in whilst completing my placement. I was Year in Industry Ambassador for EDT and gained a Certificate of Appreciation for my efforts promoting STEM subjects across secondary schools in Harrogate. Also, I was awarded 'Young Construction Environmentalist' at the 2016 Construction Development Alliance Awards and 'Highly Commended' for 'Higher Education Student of the Year' at the 2016 Generation for Change Construction Excellence Awards. After graduating, I secured a place on the extremely competitive Aldi Area Manager Graduate Scheme. I successfully worked as part of a large team and was solely responsible for managing the personnel and training issues of eighty people across three sites. I consider my experience of ensuring optimum KPI performance, strict compliance to company policies and providing professional direction through mentoring and conducting performance reviews very transferable to all sectors, including the education sector, which leads me onto my next career focus. I am now completing my PGCE with York St John University and Schools Direct and am training to be a Primary School teacher. I have achieved First Class grades in all my assignments so far and have secured a teaching job at a lovely school starting September 2020. Another milestone includes travelling around Europe in Summer 2018 which was amazing. I travelled with my boyfriend who I met at Sheffield Hallam University and we visited Oslo (Norway), Stockholm (Sweden), Warsaw (Poland), Prague (Czech Republic), Milan (Italy), Sicily (Italy) and the South of France, including Monaco, Nice and Villefranche. An amazing time. I can confidently say Geography at QE was without a doubt my favourite subject. Mark and Simon - my teachers at the time - were brilliant, dedicated, fun and inspiring practitioners. Thank you for everything. Hopefully my story will help show other students what they could get up to!

Aidan Hodgson - I left QE in 2013. Since leaving I completed a degree in Environmental science: Landscape Ecology. After leaving university I worked for a national pest control company as an internal auditor and technical officer. I had always considered teaching but never pursued it until this year. I am in the final stages of my QTS and PGCE.

I'm Laura Devlin. I attended QE 2011-2013. Subjects studied: Geography - AS Level, Biology - A Level, Chemistry - A Level, Maths - A Level, Critical Thinking - AS Level. Straight after QE I went to Durham University to study BSc Biological Sciences, which I graduated in 2016. I then went onto complete a MRes in Medical Genetics at Newcastle University (2016-2017). I then went onto a PhD in Medical Genetics at Newcastle University, funded by the Medical Research Council, of which I am currently in my 3rd year (2017-current). During my PhD I completed a placement at GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage in their computational biology team.