Dave Swanton

Left Wellfield: 1973

Current job role: Media Consultant to Wigan Warriors, Manchester Originals and Jason Robinson OBE 

What was your favourite thing about school? 

Making lifelong friends and learning so much from a great set of teachers. I worked hard throughout my five years at Wellfield. The disciplines, advice and knowledge I picked up have helped me throughout my working life. When talking to students in lectures and when they are on work experience, I still relay some of the timeless advice I was given here.

What was your post-16 choice once leaving Wellfield? 

I went to work for a bank but my real ambition was to work in sport and broadcasting. It took a while but we got there through hard work and always being able to seek opportunities. The confidence my education gave me here, gave me communication skills I still practice today.

What was the biggest transitional issue you faced when you started college/work? 

Banking was still in some ways in the dark ages and we had to address our superiors as 'Sir' and 'Maam'. It was a strict regime but enjoyable and like school I made lifelong friends and contacts.

How did school prepare you for the workforce and the real world? 

Disciplines like time keeping, manners and common sense were big factors. The teachers we had were excellent in explaining things and those disciplines eventually came naturally. Being encouraged to be unique and use skills was something I will always remember. My old sports teacher Alan Spence who died recently once said to me, 'If you believe you can, you will'. Believe me that rolls around my head regularly. 

What was your career pathway? 

Banking, Insurance, Broadcasting, Sports Management. I want to keep going as long as I can. Passing advice and life skills on to students gives me a good feeling. My media skills have evolved down the years from typewriters to PC's, Tablets, Social Media and now AI is coming quickly.