Our thanks to Mat Johnstone (KES 05-11) who gave an inspirational talk to our Sixth Formers last week.  Speaking candidly, Mat recalled how he contracted meningitus during his time in the Sixth Form at KES, and how he spent months in rehab just to be able to walk again.  Dropping out of his A Level courses at KES to concentrate on his health, Mat underlined that sometimes following a less traditional educational route can still allow you to achieve your goals.  Mat completed his A Levels on a part-time basis via night classes, and went on to study for his undergraduate degree and Master’s to qualify in clinical psychology. Today he works for Hampshire and IOW NHS as Associate Director of Strategy and System Development.

Alongside his career, for the past 3-4 years Mat has been competing in disability sport.  Beginning his journey playing tennis in a wheelchair, he has now progressed to parastanding tennis and has been competing in international tournaments, including travelling to Sweden, Budapest and Turin.  He is currently ranked amongst the Top 12 players in the UK with an ambition to compete at the Para Olympic Games.

It was great to hear Mat talk with such optimism and passion about his work and his sport.  His message was one of positivity, resilience and perseverence.