Hale Independent Issue 191

13 MAY 2026 Visit our website: www.independentnewspapers.co.uk Independent EDUCATION www.kingsmac.co.uk | 01625 260000 The King’s School in Macclesfield Charity No. 1137204 • A Top 10 School in the NorthWest for academic results • One of the UK’s Top Sports Schools • Outstanding wellbeing programme • Small classes and year groups • Unrivalled enrichment & co-curricular programme • Award-winning outdoor learning programme • Large network of school coaches BOOK ONLINE: www.kingsmac.co.uk Friday 3 July Find out more at our... Taster Day for Year 5 s ONE of the most influen- tial figures in television today flew in from New York to address teach- ers and pupils at the King’s School’s Founders’ Day service. Former pupil Michael Jack- son, who left the Macclesfield school in 1976, attended the event, which marked King’s 524-year anniversary. Michael attending the school alongside Ian Curtis, lead singer of Joy Division and Stephen Morris, who formed the band, New Order. He has made huge impact on UK and American tele- vision, with a remarkable career including controller of BBC1 and BBC2, chief executive of Channel 4, presi- dent 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 experi- ences and influences of great story-telling teachers that spurred his interests and longer-term success. He said: “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 fur- ther studies and career paths, saying: “There is so much media that our attention is a scarce and valuable com- modity. 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 fromKing’s – curiosity and critical think- ing. Both of these have never been more valuable.” After leaving King’s, Michael studied at the Pol- ytechnic of Central London, now the University of West- minster, graduating with hon- ours in media studies. Hel was the first media YOUNGSTERS at Beech Hall School took the plunge and braved the ‘Icebreaker Challenge’ for charity. The efforts of 55 pupils at the Tytherington school raised more than £755 for homelessness charity Crisis. With water at just 9°C in the school’s outdoor swim- ming pool, the challenge aimed to imitate the harsh conditions faced by those sleeping rough during the winter months. Headmaster James Allen said: “We are incredibly proud of our pupils for showing such resilience and empathy. “Taking a dip in 9°C water is no small feat, but the chil- dren were motivated by the knowledge that their efforts would provide warmth and support for those who need it most through the incredible work of Crisis. “We are incredibly proud of our swimming heritage at the school, and our pupils are determined to leverage their training to benefit social causes.” TV legend’s King’s appearance Former pupils: Peter Aiers, master and chief executive of the Charterhouse and Michael Jackson with Jason Slack studies graduate to reach a senior level in the Brit- ish media. Michael said: “Essentially my career has been in the storytelling business. And King’s played a part in form- ing 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 nur- ture 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.” Taking an icy dip