Forging ahead in their careers, these independent-school alumni demonstrate how such an education primed them for success
Tia Nasir, 22, DLD College London: Analyst Goldman Sachs
I studied A-level computer science, mathematics and history, before progressing to the Royal Holloway University of London where obtained a first-class bachelor’s degree in computer science.
Attending DLD was an invaluable experience and pivotal step in my journey to becoming an analyst at Goldman Sachs. You’re treated as an adult there, and it introduced me to the all-important art of self-guided study. You’re supported on a personalised pathway in terms of careers and studying, but also personality-wise; you’re encouraged to become who you want to be when you’re at DLD. The diversity of DLD was very different to the traditional boarding school that I’d previously attended, and the central London location gave me independence like no other. The international community provided me with the opportunity to interact with people from all over the world, helping me now in my career in an international company. James Burns, 33, Giggleswick School: Head of North America, The Bright Agency, New Jersey

At 11 years old, I arrived at Giggleswick as a nervous, anxious boy with no real expectations of doing well academically, or otherwise. To everyone’s surprise, seven years later I departed with a core set of values and abilities that go far beyond anything that can b...