We recently caught up with ex-student Danny Ord who left our school in 2010 and has since enjoyed a brilliant career in the TV industry.
Born and bred in Chester le Street, Danny now lives in busy London and works as the Series Director for 'Young MasterChef' on BBC3 as well as a Producer across 'MasterChef,' 'MasterChef: The Professionals' and 'Celebrity MasterChef.'
He is also a Camera Operator for ITV Sport, regularly filming internationally for football and rugby world cups.
Danny believes that he partly owes his career to his media teacher, Mr Duggan, who encouraged him to pursue a passion for television, resulting in a degree in Film & TV Production from The University of York which led Danny to London to get his first job as a runner at Endemol. In 8 years, Danny has managed to grow through the ranks from making teas to directing an entire studio, and says that he has 'never looked back.'
Looking back at school, Danny remembers media lessons being some of the best times in his school life but recalls his favourite memory of Hermitage Academy as becoming County Champions at Rugby Union! He said: "The whole team was made up almost entirely of close friends, many of whom are still some of my best friends today. Some of my fondest memories are of being soaked in mud on the Hermitage field after a gruelling game."
When we asked if Danny had any advice for our current students, he said: "Think about what your passions truly are. You may excel in a particular subject but it's your interests and what you really love to do that will ultimately make your future career a joyous one. I'd say don't aspire to be the person that says "I wished I'd paid more attention at school" someday. Focus now, soak it all in and the rewards will speak for themselves."
Looking to the future, Danny hopes to keep directing or producing exciting and engaging shows for people to enjoy. He thinks becoming an Executive Producer or making a feature length documentary would also be a great achievement.
We wish Danny all the best for the future and are very proud of his steps since leaving school.