Old Princethorpian Interview

Harvey Broadbent

I live in a small village called Shawell, near Rugby, Warwickshire. I own an eco-friendly clothing brand called Positive Outlook, www.positiveoutlookclothing.com. 
 
I started my own company after studying product design at Bournemouth University learning about production techniques, processes and materials available. Combining this with my background in fine art and positive outlook on life created the clothing company Positive Outlook.

The company produces positively inspired environmentally friendly clothing made from a variety of sustainable materials including: bamboo, organic-cotton, eucalyptus and recycled materials.
 
We've recently opened a store in Fargo Village, Coventry. The village is an attempt to bring the shopping experience usually found at Camden Locks and Shoreditch, London to the Midlands. I also am a freelance graphic designer.

Age: 24

When were you at Princethorpe? 2001-2008

What was the school like in your day?

It was a very caring place to be, every teacher knew every student. There was a lot of emphasis on developing students as people as well as education which I really felt was the difference between Princethorpe and other schools.

How did Princethorpe affect the person you are today?.

I believe it made me into a very well rounded and happy individual, accepting all walks of life. My time there helped me to believe in myself and encourage me to follow my dreams.

What advice would you give to your teenage self?

I suppose just work a little harder at the subjects you disliked as well as those you enjoyed, As some of them may come in handy when you're older.

Who or what has been the greatest influence on your life?

I’d probably say my parents. My dad has created a very successful business from a relatively poor background as well as assisting family members in building theirs, while remaining humble and a great friend along the way. My mum has always encouraged me to follow my dreams and always given invaluable advice throughout my life.

What keeps you awake at night? 

Anything and everything, when I go to bed is when my mind is at it’s most active. This is the time a generally come up with my best ideas and designs. Over the years I have learnt to always keep a note pad on my bedside table to ensure the ideas are not lost by the morning.

What has been your proudest moment/greatest achievement so far?

While on work placement at University a number of my designs made it to manufacture and are on sale in the UK as we speak. But my proudest moment would have to be opening my own Positive Outlook store in Coventry, which so far has been a success and I am now looking to move to a unit 4 times the size in spring.

What’s your biggest indulgence?

Currently I would say coffee and cheese, I love a good cheese board!

If you had to have one last meal, what would it be? 

100% full English breakfast!

What is your favourite TV Show and why? 

‘George Clarkes Amazing Spaces’, I love turning old pallets into furniture and display units and every episode gives me new ideas and materials to consider.

If you could be anywhere right now, where would it be and who would be with you? 

California with my girlfriend and best friends.

Lasting memories of Princethorpe:

I am lucky that I am still very close with nearly all of my friends from Princethorpe so it never really feels like it ended. Also A-level English classes with Mr Kerrigan, love that guy!

Are you in touch with any other Old Princethorpians, if so whom? 

As I mentioned before I see a large group on a weekly basis and the rest probably monthly.

Is there anyone you would like to track down?

Not really, I would enjoy seeing all the teachers again though.­