Alumna Interview with Jane Quinn ARAM, singer, actor and founder of The Speakers’ Toolkit

For our Alumna of the Month interview, we spoke to Jane Quinn ARAM, Singer, actor and founder of The Speakers’ Toolkit.  Jane recently appeared in ‘Private Lives’ at The Ambassadors Theatre with Patricia Hodge and Nigel Havers.

Jane joined Bromley High School in 1993 and left in 1997. She read Management Studies with German at Royal Holloway, University of London.  Jane subsequently trained at The Royal Academy of Music, where she was elected Associate (ARAM) by the Honours Committee this year.

Please can you briefly describe your current role?

I am a freelance singer and actor represented by Rossmore Management.  I am also the founder of The Speakers’ Toolkit which offers clients public speaking and professional communication training.

How did Bromley High School help shape your future career?

You wouldn’t believe it now, but when I joined BHS, I was actually quite shy. However, the school gave me so many varied opportunities to perform and experience how it felt to be on stage, it sparked something in me that has enabled me to pursue a career I absolutely love. My performing at Bromley High School started with a small, improvised contribution to a year group production where I played a devil. Years later, my role as Linda in Stags & Hens as part of GSCE Drama was something I shall never forget. We had an amazing purpose-built set, and I remember practising my escape out of its bathroom window in wedge heels!

I managed to find my old school shirt which everybody had signed at the end of the year, and you can still see the gentle words of encouragement from my drama teacher who told me to keep up the drama!

By complete contrast, reading the notices in assembly as deputy head girl provided me with a regular public speaking platform where I gained valuable experience in performing with little preparation time.

Playing the French horn in the concert band got me involved with the music department, and I was subsequently invited to be the singer of the newly-formed jazz band. I remember being so chuffed that I was given my own handheld mic – equipment was a bit rarer in the 90s than the amazing tech the school has now. I think it surprised a lot of people as I wasn’t particularly one of the most extroverted girls, and of course, it was a tremendous confidence boost.

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

I joined the school at the age of fourteen, not the usual transition year but my previous school Stratford House (which was next to Bickley Park) had just announced it was closing. It was a challenging time, but Bromley High helped me settle in quickly. Even then pastoral care was a top priority, and I loved the emphasis they put on music, drama, and other endorphin-releasing activities.

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

Being given permission to recreate a scene from “Absolutely Fabulous” in assembly. It was very daring at the time!

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

I find it inspiring to read people’s stories and feel part of a network of people who make things happen. In recent years, sharing skills has been a real asset, and when an opportunity to work together arises, it’s rather special. Last year, a particular highlight was collaborating with fellow musician Hazel Ross to perform our show on board a luxury yacht.

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