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Peter Rollason

[ITEM_ROLE]

School Connection:
Pupil – Princethorpe College (1970 - 1977)

OP Committee focus:
Events, Engagement, Hospitality

What are some of your favourite memories of your time at school?
Freedom, and space. Life at the College then was all a bit less structured than nowadays (a bit like life generally). The freedom we had together, along with the care we received, was incredible. It was an environment that allowed a natural growth of personality. I always say that we became the people we are now by the time we left.

Were there any teachers or staff who had a significant impact on you?
Mr Fergusson (my first class teacher), Fr Boyle for his kindness and care and Lou Skiffington. Lou, in particular, changed my whole attitude to life, art and the arts generally; for that I shall be forever grateful.

How did your time at the school influence your life and career?
It totally influenced most aspects of my life. Above all it gave me my life-long love of sport in general and Rugby in particular (the latter of which I played until a week off becoming 60 years of age!) Career-wise, the experiences of my time at Princethorpe and the teaching I received there set a very strong moral compass that has guided me throughout my working and private life.

What is your current occupation?
I continue to work full time as a solicitor. I also assist my wife in her outdoor fitness business.

Are there any special achievements or milestones you’d like to share?
I set up my own firm in Daventry on the 1 November 1994; now known as Rollasons Solicitors LLP. We have just celebrated our 30th birthday and have offices in Daventry Leamington Spa and Lutterworth.

What hobbies or interests do you have outside of your professional life?
I have always loved the game of Rugby Union and played, coached and (reluctantly) refereed the game until just over 6 years ago. I remain the disciplinary officer for Harbury RFC. I love to ski and play the eccentric game of Real Tennis. I am also a Nordic Walking instructor and assist my wife Emma in delivering outdoor exercise classes under the Walx banner in the locality, leading 3-4 sessions a week.

What motivated you to join the alumni committee?
Well, I formed the committee with Gill Price as founder-chairman, at the request of the then Headmaster John Shinkwin, probably about 15 years ago or so.

How do you hope to contribute to the school community through the alumni committee?
To continue my role as at present by supporting and helping organise events where possible.