AGS Alumni | Victoria Armstrong
Name: Victoria Armstrong
Left Acklam Grange: 1997
Current position: Chief Executive Officer
Current Employer: Community Transport Association
What was your experience at Acklam Grange like?
Overall, and looking back, on the whole I enjoyed it. I was one of those people who quite likes/liked studying so at that time, it suited me well.
Do you have a fond memory that you would like to share?
There are probably quite a few, but I do remember Mr White (then deputy head teacher) who was also my geography teacher, recognising the work I was doing and writing me a letter of commendation.
What person, class or experience most influenced you?
At the time I probably didn’t think this, because I wasn’t much of a sporty person. But the grit of Miss Wareing (my form teacher and PE teacher) I often think about. I have thought more about her much more recently as I have gotten more into running and sport, but there was a good mental toughness there I now appreciate more than ever.
How did your education at AGS prepare you for your career?
The variety of subjects, projects with deadlines, learning to work with others, and learning to knuckle down and just get on!
What has your career path been like? How did you get to where you are?
Degree in Law
Graduate recruiter for Nissan
Legal aid advisor on debt, benefits and housing
Supervisor status in the above advice areas
Team Manager for Shelter in multiple areas of law
Second tier legal advisor to Council
MA in research and sociology
Project lead in volunteering and mental health
PhD (fully funded on scholarship) Sociology and social research
Consultant to voluntary sector and freelance bid writer and module lead at various universities for disability studies
Chief Exec of Disability North
Chief Exec CTA
What do you enjoy about your job?
The variety and the fact I indirectly support the cause for accessible transport across the UK
What skills have served you well in your career?
Being able to process large pieces of information and cut to the important parts. But also, be able to present the relevant elements to whichever audience is listening.
What advice would you give to current Acklam Grange students about their future?
Whilst it is always good to have a plan, and plans are great, don’t be so rigid that you don’t enjoy the journey. Work hard at what it is you are doing, and enjoy it!
If you’re a former student of Acklam Grange School and want to share your story, get in touch via the details below.
Miss S Winter
Careers Advisor
01642 277700
winter.s@acklamgrange.org.uk