Tom Cross
Age: 21
When were you at Princethorpe - years from and to: 2003 – 2010
Student at University of Portsmouth, studying Television and Broadcasting (BSc). As well as learning key skills for the Television and Broadcast Industry including Film and Video Editing, Camera and Sound training, TV and Radio Studio training and Scripting and Animation, I am a presenter for the CCi TV Channel, hosting a number of television shows produced by third year students as well as presenting an award winning radio show on Pure FM, ‘Lunch with Tom Cross’.
I also still continue my career as a live host, compere and Jazz Swing Singer.
What was the school like in your day?
Princethorpe in my day was a friendly, fun and inspiring place to be. There was never a boring day, something different was always going on. I looked forward to going in to school every day and enjoyed seeing friends and staff. As well as focussing on my studies…..of course, I loved a catch up with everyone that I bumped in to!
How did Princethorpe affect the person you are today?
Princethorpe is responsible for making me the person I am today. After struggling a lot at primary school, Princethorpe gave me the confidence and assurance that I was allowed to be myself. Every student that goes to Princethorpe can be guaranteed to leave with a talent! Whether it is being sporty, academic, musical, theatrical etc, Princethorpe draws that talent out of you and is interested in what you have to offer. Something I learnt that was very important to me, was that I didn’t have to be super clever to get on in life, I had other qualities.
What advice would you give to your teenage self?
Everything happens for a reason. If things don’t go the way you expected; take it and embrace it. The fact that plans/situations change is for a reason to develop you as a person.
Who or what has been the greatest influence on your life?
My great grandmother, Phoebe Darbishire.
What keeps you awake at night?
If I’m nervous or excited.
What has been your proudest moment/greatest achievement so far?
Achieving ‘Best Entertainment Show’ for my Radio Show, ‘Lunch with Tom Cross’ on Pure FM.
Being awarded ‘The Old Princethorpians Cup’ and
‘The Princethorpe Shield’ at Prize Giving 2010.
What’s your biggest indulgence?
Parties.
If you had to have one last meal, what would it be?
Garlic mushrooms with melted brie, Beef Wellington, dauphinoise potatoes and veg, followed by apple pie and custard.
What is your favourite TV Show and why?
Mr Bean, because since I was a young child every time I watch it, it makes me howl with laughter! I know a man just like him and needless to say, I can’t take that man seriously!
If you could be anywhere right now, where would it be and who would be with you?
I’d be having lunch with my sunglasses on, warm sunny weather but with a gentle constant breeze, sat in a restaurant on a river in Venice drinking a large Gin and Tonic, watching Frank Sinatra perform with all my best friends and a real life Patsy Stone sat opposite me to make us cry with laughter.
Lasting memories of Princethorpe:
I am still very good friends with people from Princethorpe and still have a great time with them, reminiscing and discussing all the hilarious things that we used to get up to during our school days. I’d go back to Princethorpe tomorrow….if they’d take me back.
