We were delighted to hear recently from Old Suttonian Ian Jones (1992 M), now the owner of Hill House Farm in Dorking. Through his company's newsletter, he paid homage to the School and recognised a personal highlight from his time at SVS, some 30 years later. Whilst the awarding of the Lower Sixth Home Economics prize may not hold the greatest value to many recipients, for Ian it set in motion his aspirations in the hospitality industry which have ultimately led to where he is today.

He adds, "I was fortunate to have two amazing Home Economics teachers in Mrs Kay Jackson (later Andersen) and Mrs Annie Wilkinson, who fostered my keen interest in food which ultimately led to where I am today. They were, and still are, an inspiration to me."

Today, his company, Hill House Farm, produces 'farm to fork' products centred on the Gloucester Old Spot pigs, Southdown sheep and free-range bronze turkeys he rears at his family farm. Ian also uses his 20 years' worth of experience in professional catering to create outstanding event menus with his produce.

We regularly hear of similar positive stories from Old Suttonians equally inspired by the School's Home Economics provision during its boom in the 1980s and 1990s. Many of them went on to study event management or catering and now work in high level hospitality jobs around the world. Although the School no longer offers the subject as part of its GCSE curriculum, we are proud of the positive impact and inspiration it had on many Old Suttonians like Ian.

If you would like more information about Hill House Farm, please go to https://www.hill-house-farm.com/.