For Kirsten Currer (Née Davies), a Legal Director in Employment Law, the journey from school to her current success has been shaped by determination, the influence of exceptional teachers, and a passion for her chosen field. Her story is one of nostalgia, empowerment, and the enduring lessons of her school days.

From the very beginning, Kirsten felt drawn to a career in law. The subjects she chose during her GCSE and A-Levels, not only fuelled her interest but also honed her skills in analysing information and texts. Little did she know, these skills would become foundational to her work today, where she processes complex facts and applies them to intricate legislation. Even Theatre Studies A-Level played an unexpected yet vital role, helping Kirsten build confidence in public speaking and performance—abilities she relies on for delivering legal briefings, training sessions, and even advocacy in Tribunal hearings. Despite her confidence, Kirsten humorously admits that appearing before a Judge is always nerve-wracking!

School life wasn’t just about academics; it was also about the people who believed in Kirsten’s potential and pushed her to excel. One particular moment during a parent-teacher meeting with her History teacher, Mr. Drew, left an impression. He humorously mentioned that:

"Kirsten on occasion tries to re-write history”

A reflection on her knack for presenting alternative interpretations of events. This comment resonates with her to this day as she crafts compelling narratives for her clients in legal cases, balancing facts with persuasive storytelling.

Another highlight of Kirsten’s school experience was the unwavering support of her Theatre Studies teachers, Miss Willis and Mr. Pritchard. They saw her potential and consistently reminded her of it, giving her the confidence to pursue her ambitions in a career that demands resilience and determination. This same belief is what Kirsten now strives to pass on to the junior lawyers she mentors, encouraging them to chase their dreams with courage and focus.

In her current role as Legal Director at Ashfords LLP, Kirsten wears many hats. From leading litigation cases—such as representing 142 employers in a complex multi-party action involving over 700 claimants—to managing key client relationships and mentoring aspiring lawyers, her days are busy, challenging, and fulfilling. She finds deep satisfaction in developing junior lawyers, guiding them through the hurdles of entering the profession, and supporting their growth. For Kirsten, remembering her own struggles as a young lawyer fuels her passion for paying it forward.

Outside of her career, Kirsten cherishes the lifelong friendships she made at school. Some of her closest friends remain a big part of her life, and their children now play together—proof of the enduring bonds formed during those years. These friendships, as much as the education, are among her most treasured takeaways from her time at school.

Looking ahead, Kirsten is proud of reaching the role of Legal Director at a relatively early stage of her career, especially while balancing life as a mother to her young son. While partnership may be an option in the future, for now, she is content to continue growing her expertise, focusing on multi-party litigation, and nurturing her passion for mentoring junior lawyers. One long-term ambition is to take on the role of training principal, overseeing the development of trainees across a firm—a role she believes could amplify her impact on the next generation of legal professionals.

Balancing work and family is not without its challenges, but Kirsten is determined to prove that success in both is achievable. She believes the working world is evolving, and that supportive employers are key to helping parents thrive in their careers while raising a family. Her message to working parents is empowering:

“It’s not easy, but it can be done. We have the opportunity to challenge boundaries and create new norms for the workplace.”

Kirsten’s journey is an inspiring testament to the power of school memories, dedicated mentors, and the determination to carve out a rewarding and balanced life. For current students and alumni alike, her story is a reminder that with resilience and the right support, it’s possible to achieve both personal and professional aspirations.