For our Alumna of the Month interview, we spoke to Natalie Falshaw, Health Researcher, Writer, and Coach.
Natalie joined Bromley High School in 2003 and left in 2015. She studied A level Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics. She then went on to study a degree in Neuroscience at University of Leeds and a Masters in Microbiome Research at King’s College London.
Please can you briefly describe your current role?
I currently work as a Health Coach for the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme, delivering group educational sessions to individuals diagnosed with prediabetes. My role involves providing tailored nutrition and lifestyle advice to support their health, prevent progression to Type 2 diabetes, and help reverse their prediabetes. Alongside this, I act as a freelance health and longevity consultant for executives and start-ups, following a two-year tenure as a private health researcher. I also write blogs on health topics and am pursuing my third degree, an MSc in Human Nutrition at St Mary’s University, Twickenham, with the goal of becoming a qualified nutritionist.
How did Bromley High School help shape your career?
I was fortunate to spend 12 years at Bromley High School in a nurturing and supportive environment, which instilled in me both confidence and ambition. This strong foundation encouraged me to pursue a career path that, while unconventional, is deeply aligned with my passions and desire to help others. During my final years at Bromley High School, I faced a challenging period due to a serious autoimmune condition, which resulted in frequent hospital visits and missed lessons. The incredible support from my teachers, who provided me with work, guidance, and understanding, ensured I didn’t fall behind. Their empathy and encouragement during this difficult time were pivotal in maintaining my academic progress and overall wellbeing, for which I remain deeply grateful.
What aspects of Bromley High School did you most enjoy, and find most rewarding?
As a Year 7 Sports Scholar, I loved representing Bromley High School in various sports and appreciated the fantastic support from the PE department, both in extracurricular activities and beyond. Coaching younger students in hockey and gymnastics was particularly rewarding, as it gave me the opportunity to give back and help nurture the next generation of athletes.
What is your favourite memory of being at Bromley High School?
My favourite memories are from away fixtures and sports trips. Whether it was winning gymnastics trust rallies, competing in regional or national cross-country and hockey tournaments, or enjoying hockey tours to Holland, these moments were all about camaraderie, teamwork, and having so much fun. Being part of a team, usually with my sister (also a Bromley High School Alumna) and my best friends, working hard, cheering each other on, and celebrating together created memories I’ll always cherish.
What value do you get out of your connections with your fellow alumnae?
The shared experiences, amazing memories, and common interests I have with close friends from Bromley High School have built bonds that I know will last a lifetime. These friendships are still such a source of understanding and support, just like they were back in school, and they continue to be just as meaningful through our twenties and beyond.