Lucy Coulson
Bit of background, where you live, what you do for a living:
I live in South Warwickshire with my husband and son. We lived in Manchester for five years, but the pandemic gave us the breathing space to reflect and make the big decision to move back to Warwickshire. It is lovely to be back nearer both of our families.
I am a practising Barrister at No5 Chambers, specialising in personal injury and professional disciplinary law. I have a varied practice, from accidents on construction sites to serious assaults in prison. I love being self employed. It has some downsides (no maternity pay!), but there is nothing like being your own boss. I have recently returned from maternity leave and I am trying to find a new work life balance.
Age: 33
When were you at Princethorpe - years from and to?
2002 – 2009 but I also came back for a summer job between 2009 and 2012.
What was the school like in your day?
My mum was a music teacher at Princethorpe (and remains dedicated to her job there), so it always felt like a second home to me. The school seemed a lot smaller when I started there. The gender balance was still off (only seven girls in my Year 7 Form!) There was a lot of development during my years there; I don’t think anyone misses the freezing cold West Door portacabins.
Princethorpe was a small and supportive community. We had some wonderfully dedicated, if sometimes eccentric, teachers. Honourable mentions for Sue Francis, Simon Peaple, Tracey Hester, Emma Litterick and Vikki Ball.
How did Princethorpe affect the person you are today?
Princethorpe gave me a sense of service. I often describe myself as ‘forever a prefect’ when I get roped into various committees and events at work.
During my summer job, I also met my husband. We had many a romantic walk through the woods at lunch time. Thanks to the lovely Angela Hales for acting as matchmaker.
What advice would you give to your teenage self?
Assert your own narrative.
Who or what has been the greatest influence on your life?
The University of Nottingham. I had so much time there. I found my people, my voice and my confidence. It also set me up for a great career. Things have come full circle as I’ve recently been appointed as an Honorary Assistant Professor at the Law School, so the next chapter begins.
What keeps you awake at night?
Normally my 1-year-old.
What has been your proudest moment/greatest achievement so far?
Obtaining pupillage (vocational training to be a barrister).
Competition is fierce and it is notoriously difficult to secure. I was two hours late to my final interview, because I had got on the wrong train. I was a crying mess and only bothered to turn up because my husband reminded me that there was a free lunch to be had. Such chaos meant that I was entirely relaxed and myself during the interview, having given up on the idea of a successful interview. Reader, they gave me the job!
What’s your biggest indulgence?
Musical Theatre.
If you had to have one last meal, what would it be?
As I am being nostalgic, a guaranteed winner is bacon sandwiches made by fellow OP Amy Thorne’s mum. She is still the best hostess.
If you could be anywhere right now, where would it be and who would be with you?
Bali with my family.
Lasting memories of Princethorpe:
I spent a lot of time in the Music corridor, either in Choir or Orchestra or Music lessons, or just waiting for my mum to finally take us home. I am obviously biased, but we were very privileged to have such a vibrant and dedicated music department. Choir tours were always fantastic; I went to Rome last year and retraced some of our Choir Tour steps from 2005. It seems mad to think that I was privileged enough to have sung in St Peter’s Basilica as a teenager - that place is incredible!
Are you in touch with any other Old Princethorpians, if so whom?
My sister, Rosie Coulson (she’s the best!), Becci Morris and Amy Thorne of course - we were bridesmaids at each other’s weddings and are forever friends! Sacha Galloway and Rory Rooney were Best Men at my wedding which was well attended by Princethorpe staff and students.
I’ve reconnected with a few people since I’ve moved back to Warwickshire, but if anyone from my time or from Choir, etc. is around, I would love to catch up.
