LAST week we welcomed Vice Admiral Duncan Potts, formally of the Royal Navy, to Everest Community Academy.

He spoke to the whole school focusing on aspiration, the wider world and about his experience in the Royal Navy. 

From an early age he did not know what to do with his life.

He had originally considered becoming an architect, but a five-year course did not appeal to him.

So he decided that the Navy was the best option for him, saying: “Something about the sea and seeing new places sounded really exciting.”

During his 39 years in the Royal Navy, Duncan has undertaken many roles, including seeing active service and leading counter piracy whilst being in command on three ships.

Some of his favourite memories are when he and his crew would be on the flight deck in the evenings, watching the latest movie under the stars or playing football or hockey.

The favourite place he visited was Chile, as it was cut off from the rest of the world and has amazing agriculture. He would also like to take his family back to Kenya.

It was a pleasure to have Vice Admiral Duncan Potts come to Everest and we wish him luck in his new adventure.

By Courtney Little and Henry Welldon