Alumna Interview with Harriet Goodwin, award-winning author

For our Alumna of the Month interview, we spoke to Harriet Goodwin, award-winning author.

Harriet joined Bromley High School in 1976 and left in 1988, after studying A level English Literature, History and Mathematics. She read BA (Hons) English Language and Literature at the University of Oxford.

Please can you briefly describe your current role?

In recent years I have enjoyed a varied career: writing children’s fantasy novels (my first book, The Boy Who Fell Down Exit 43, was shortlisted for the Blue Peter Book Award in 2010); visiting schools to deliver presentations and creative writing workshops; and performing and touring as a singer.

I also teach creative writing one-to-one online to all ages, and work with schools, trusts and individuals on the clear expression of English.

How did Bromley High School help shape your future career?

I had excellent tuition throughout my time at Bromley High School, along with huge encouragement along the way. I wrote for the yearly drama festivals, and even produced a couple of books while I was there (they never saw the light of day, thank goodness!)

What aspects of Bromley High School did you most enjoy, and find most rewarding?

I loved almost all of it.  Not the sport so much, because I was so terrible at it!

There was always something to interest me: drama; music; pottery lessons; film club; the debating society. I struggled to choose what to do at A level because everything was taught so well.

What is your favourite memory of being at Bromley High School?

I have so many. I remember the fantastic drama festivals, the Christmas entertainment performed by the staff, countless concerts and the honour and excitement of being chosen as one of the two Head Girls.

What value do you get out of your connections with your fellow alumnae?

That’s an easy question, friendship. Several of my best friends are from my class at school, and two I have known since the age of seven! We meet up regularly for lunch and walks and general putting-the-world-to-rights sessions. There is nothing we don’t share, and I would be lost without them.

How have you benefited from being part of the wider GDST community?