Last night Benenden students bravely took on one of TV’s chasers from the hit show The Chase, in a quick-fire quiz.
Benenden students and staff were delighted to spend an evening with Shaun Wallace, hailed ‘one of the best brains in Britain’, for an insightful talk on his legal career, success on the intelligence-based game show circuit and his lived experience as a Black man growing up and living in Britain.
Students studying law at A Level thoroughly enjoyed sharing an evening meal with Shaun, where they learned all about what it takes to become a successful legal professional. As well as his various TV commitments Shaun continues to practise as a barrister and lecturer and regaled pupils with tales from his legal career, sharing hints and tips on how to make the most of their time at university.
Following a wonderful meal, Shaun joined Benenden students and staff in the School Theatre and online for an intelligent and passionate talk which was also livestreamed to various partner schools and the wider Benenden community. Shaun discussed a plethora of topics, which included his journey to becoming the first Black man to win the famous quiz show Mastermind and his determination to succeed following several setbacks early on in his career.
Following the after-dinner discussion Shaun faced a team of Benenden sixth formers in a quick-fire quiz round similar to that of the final round in the tv programme The Chase. Students put in a great effort and managed to knock the Chaser back twice during the quiz round, but they were ultimately defeated by the Mastermind winner.
The extremely entertaining quiz rounded the evening off nicely, with all in attendance leaving the Theatre feeling inspired by Shaun’s presentation.
Shaun thoroughly enjoyed his evening at Benenden, he said: “My visit to Benenden has been fantastic. To inspire the next generation of future leaders and superstars has been amazing, it is one of the best events I have ever done.
“I know at least one, two or hopefully a whole group of students who were in attendance this evening will be inspired to fulfil their own dreams and ambitions and I’m sure with the loving support of the staff here at Benenden and their parents they will achieve their dreams.”