We were thrilled to welcome Patti Clare, a former St Gregory’s student, back to the school for a special Acting Career Talk with our Drama Club and musical theatre students, alongside visiting pupils from Southborough Primary School.

Best known for her role as Mary Taylor in ITV’s Coronation Street, Patti’s visit was a fantastic opportunity for students to hear first hand about the realities of working in the performing arts industry.

The session brought together members of Drama Club and students currently rehearsing for our major school musical production, Grease, which will take to the stage at the start of July.

As part of our #artsmark journey, opportunities like this highlight the importance of collaboration and enriching creative experiences, bringing together students from different year groups and our wider school community.

Patti shared candid insights into life as a professional actor, from theatre and television to auditions, agents and resilience in a changing industry. Students engaged brilliantly throughout, asking thoughtful and insightful questions, while Patti encouraged them to make bold choices, trust their instincts and always remember the audience.

Thank you, Patti, for coming back to St Gregory’s and inspiring the next generation with advice that truly resonated with our budding performers.