Former pupil is VIP speaker to mark our 524-year history in Macclesfield
One of the most influential figures in television today, former pupil Michael Jackson, flew in from New York to address teachers and pupils at our Founders’ Day service on 27th March, marking our 524-year anniversary.
Michael, who left King’s in 1976, attending the school alongside Ian Curtis (lead singer of Joy Division) and Stephen Morris (formed the band, New Order), has made huge impact on UK and American television, with a remarkable career including Controller of BBC1 and BBC2, Chief Executive of Channel 4, President of Programming at USA Entertainment, Chairman of Universal Television and President of Programming for IAC.
By his own admission, Michael was not an academic over-achiever, nor did he enjoy playing rugby during his time at King’s, but it was the experiences and influences of great story-telling teachers that spurred his interests and longer-term success: “If you are curious, you make your own luck.”
In his address to Sixth Form pupils at St.Michael’s Parish Church and later to Year 7-11 pupils at King’s, Michael spoke of the contrast of his boredom in the 60s and 70s, to the wealth of media and choice today. He offered his advice to pupils embarking on their further studies and career paths. “There is so much media that our attention is a scarce and valuable commodity. But there are many rich and imaginative as well as entertaining things – if we are prepared to look for them.”
“I got the foundations of two crucial skills from King’s – curiosity and critical thinking. Both of these have never been more valuable.”
After leaving King’s, Michael studied at the Polytechnic of Central London (renamed the University of Westminster in 1992) and graduated with Honours in Media Studies. Michael was the first media studies graduate to reach a senior level in the British media.
“Essentially my career has been in the storytelling business. And King’s played a part in forming that interest.”
Head of King’s Foundation, Jason Slack, said: “Michael delivered an inspiring and alternative perspective in his speech to our students. He reassured pupils that one period of our lives does not define us, there is always a second chance for those that remain inquisitive, and our school’s history and values remain consistent, to nurture enquiry and problem solving and set students up for a rewarding future. We are so pleased Michael was able to join us to mark this important day with his engaging address.”
Pictured are former pupils, Peter Aiers, OBE, Master & Chief Executive of the Charterhouse and Michael Jackson with Head of Foundation, Mr Slack.