On January 30th, Old Peterite Gareth Barlow came to give a talk for Sixth Formers at St Peter’s. Gareth game to the school back in 2008 and has since done a great deal to make St Peter’s proud. He shared with us his story of how he came to be a presenter at BBC from 2017-2023, and now a host of Sky News’ breakfast show.
After leaving St Peter’s, Gareth went to Durham University and realized that it was not the right place for him. He left university and worked hard at his dream of becoming a farmer, quickly learning and developing agricultural skills and knowledge and growing his farm from six sheep to hundreds. Gareth became a successful farmer and supplied meat to over 20 Michelin star restaurants across the UK, and even for one of the King’s estates. From there, he continued to follow his dreams in a different direction: television.
He started at the bottom and through perseverance and advocating for himself he rose through the ranks and attracted the attention of the right people. He emphasized hard work and a willingness to use your mistakes to your advantage, being unafraid to go for what you truly want.
The Sixth Formers were completely engaged in his talk and listened to his useful advice to try and become successful by confidently being yourself. He also touched on his past struggles with mental health and how he relied on those around him for support. It was a greatly motivating talk, hosted by his former Biology teacher Mrs. McKie, and afterwards pupils queued to ask questions and get advice from Gareth for their own futures.
Thank you to Gareth for coming to speak and for everyone who helped arrange the event.
