For our Alumna of the Month interview, we spoke to Katharine Howard, PR & Communications Consultant at Katharine Howard Style.
Katharine joined Bromley High School in 1988 and left in 1993. She read History of Design at Camberwell College of Arts.
Please can you briefly describe your current role?
I work for myself as a PR & Communications Consultant for some of the most well-respected interior designers and design brands in the industry. My company is called Katharine Howard Style. I also recently embarked on a new project CHL, which represents the finest country locations in Kent and Sussex for photoshoots and film.
How did Bromley High School help shape your future career?
During my years at Bromley High School, we were instilled with a sense of optimism for our future. A positive energy radiated throughout the school resonating in an overwhelming belief that if you were determined and applied yourself, anything was possible. This was the late 1980’s and early 1990’s when in-fact many challenges and boundaries still lay ahead for women.
We were encouraged to work hard and to pursue traditional careers in professional industries. The ethos of the school was very much centred around the belief that hard work got results and results meant success. As a 46-year-old mother, today I measure success differently, to me it reflects balance, and the luxury of time and freedom to be able to enjoy a rewarding and fun career, whilst also being present and connected to my children.
What aspects of Bromley High School did you most enjoy, and find most rewarding?
I loved Speech and Drama and the musical productions we put on as a school were always an uplifting experience and a joy to perform in. We also took part in the Beckenham Festival, and my group of friends and I won the Morrisby Award for Group improvisation for two consecutive years. I rely on those improvisation skills every day to respond to ever changing circumstances at work and with my children. I also enjoyed representing the school in swimming.
What is your favourite memory of being at Bromley High School?
Favourite memories are giggling and laughing in the corridors with friends, the infamous ‘squidgy’ known today as a millionaire’s shortbread, and assemblies. I loved coming together with the older girls, singing hymns, and admiring the inspiring works of art that were often displayed around the hall.
What value do you get out of your connections with your fellow alumnae?
I’ve only just re-connected with my fellow alumnae, through Instagram, but I am looking forward to being a part of the Bromley High School and GDST alumnae community.
How have you benefited from being part of the wider GDST community?
During the years since leaving school, I’ve come across and made friends with others who were at GDST schools, namely Putney, Wimbledon, and Sydenham High. They all share a positive attitude, appetite for fun and resilience and there is a collective gratitude for our experiences. Now that we are at the stage of looking for the next school for our girls, I look back with huge appreciation at the opportunities we were presented with at Bromley High School, that perhaps I underestimated at the time.