Michael Kerrigan
I live in the West of England, my parents remain in the Midlands and I have two younger brothers and a sister living in London.
I joined the army in 2005 after university and a short spell working in recruitment in London. I spent a year at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst and commissioned into The Parachute Regiment.
Now a Captain, I've been lucky to travel across the world with my work - some places better than others! I split my time between where I work and Cardiff, where my girlfriend works as a doctor.
Age: 30
When were you at Princethorpe - years from and to? 1993-2000
What was the school like in your day?
I think the school had approximately 550 pupils when I was a pupil, and it felt as though you knew everyone. Fr Whelan was Headmaster, and Fr McManus used to talk to me about the old days, having seen my father and uncles through the school.
Having had a look around the school recently, the improvements and new developments are fantastic, but importantly haven't detracted from the intangible 'feel' of the College.
How did Princethorpe affect the person you are today?
The teachers at Princethorpe, particularly Moira Weir, Mick Kitterick & Ralph Moore, would place a great emphasis on developing your personal skills - attempting to turn out young adults who were good people, as well as attaining their academic potential. Needless to say, they failed on both counts with me!
Mr Pete Griffin was my GCSE & A Level Economics teacher, and drummed in a discipline I badly required! Easily the best teacher I had at Princethorpe.
What advice would you give to your teenage self?
Enjoy being young, and don't be so shy with girls, but please concentrate on your exams!
Who or what has been the greatest influence on your life?
A cliche, but my parents are right up there. My mother is one of the kindest and most generous spirited people you could ever hope to meet; so I try to emulate her in how I treat people.
My father has worked hard from the factory floor upwards and demonstrated that determination, combined with a sharp mind can take you places. My Godfather Kevin was in the army in his youth so he offered me guidance. More importantly, his unflappable, calm demeanour inspires respect and I try to remember that when I'm at work.
What keeps you awake at night?
Few things can keep me from my sleep!
What has been your proudest moment/greatest achievement so far?
There are several landmarks you hit as you go through life (School, graduation etc). You undoubtedly look back upon these with immense pride, and the structure of the army offers even more. Commanding soldiers in highly fluid and kinetic environments is a unique experience. Combine that with seeing those under your leadership develop and progress within the organisation, and the sense of achievement is immense.
What’s your biggest indulgence?
Last minute holidays booked on impulse.
If you had to have one last meal, what would it be?
I love my food so a tough question. I suppose my favourite meal of the year is Christmas dinner with the family.
What is your favourite TV Show and why?
I don't watch too much TV as it is difficult to be in a routine with my job. Boxsets, iPlayer and iTunes provide an opportunity to catch up on what I've missed, usually from my brother's recommendations.
I loved the BBC's 'The Thick of It' - sharp and topical comedy with a pang of fear that Westminster is accurately represented within the programme. I am addicted to the US series 'Homeland' at the moment. I like the actor Damian Lewis and the twists the writing throws up each week. 'The Office' was sublime as was 'Phoenix Nights'.
If you could be anywhere right now, where would it be and who would be with you?
At the Hong Kong 7s rugby tournament with Cameron Diaz. Failing that, with my best mates and family.
Lasting memories of Princethorpe:
The Geography field trip to Swanage - being caught breaking the curfew by Mr Kitterick. Scoring my only two tries for the 1st XV within five minutes of each other. French home stay trips with educational wine tasting excursions. Rallying around the Mile Walk in Toddy's Escort, racing Craig Lakey's 4x4 on the prefect retreat, the atmosphere on the bus home on a Friday. A beautiful environment with some of the best staff you could hope for.
Are you in touch with any other Old Princethorpians, if so whom?
Yep, Nick Todd, Tom Gleghorn and Alex Sedgfield. We were together at Nick's wedding last summer in France. A superb weekend with plenty of old stories and past teachers recounted. I am also long standing friends with Nick Cahill, a close family friend.
Is there anyone you would like to track down?When I first arrived, Joe James took me under his wing. He left after GCSEs to pursue an art career. I'm in touch with most people through Facebook, but not Joe.
