IN 2018, a Somerset and England cricketer returned to his former school to inspire the students.

Jack Leach went back to Taunton's Bishop Fox's School on Tuesday, May 1 of that year.

The cricketer took part in question and answer sessions with all year groups across the school - inspiring the next generation.

Jack said that Bishop Fox’s enabled him to be prepared for the challenges of professional sport and lives by the motto ‘there is no substitute for hard work’.

Headteacher at the time, Kerry Tonkin, had been promoting the power of alumni in assemblies throughout the year.

Somerset County Gazette: Cricketer Jack Leach taking part in a Q&A session. Cricketer Jack Leach taking part in a Q&A session. (Image: NQ archives)

Speaking in 2018, she said: “Jack is a great ambassador for the school and has been an inspirational speaker for many students and staff in our school community.

"I am very proud of Jack's achievements on the cricket field but I am also equally impressed with the positive way he presented himself.

"Confident and charming are traits that I encourage in Fox’s students and such positive role modelling is important."

Bishop Fox's School prides itself on inspiring students to aim high.

Writing on the school's website, the deputy headteacher said: "Bishop Fox’s School is an attractive welcoming school.  We work hard and enjoy the many successes of our students.  At Bishop Fox’s we are committed to developing the talents and interests of all our young people.

Somerset County Gazette: Jack shared his wisdom with students.Jack shared his wisdom with students. (Image: NQ archives)

"Bishop Fox’s students tell us that they enjoy school, they appreciate the care and attention they are given.

"Students respond to the many challenges and opportunities we present.  The history of the school encourages us to aspire to the highest possible standards and we are confident in our ability to deliver these. 

"Bishop Fox’s is a thriving, constantly evolving school.  Challenge, opportunity, achievement and enjoyment are the key words I would use to sum up what helps to make Bishop Fox’s an excellent school."

A parent of a student added: "Why choose Fox’s – As a parent of two students at Bishop Fox’s, I believe the school offers a caring and supportive environment, where children feel happy and confident to learn.

"All children are offered numerous opportunities to develop a variety of skills allowing them to become independent learners.

"The school encourages the children to set themselves high standards in all that they do, whilst guiding them to achieve their full potential."