2020 Beijing Fellowship for one lucky Exeter School pupil

Exeter School welcomed alumnus Julian Fisher (1993 - 2000) back to school to launch the 2020 Beijing Fellowship for Lower Sixth pupils.

Leading educational consultant Julian first offered the all-inclusive work experience placement to Exeter School pupils last year.

Upper Sixth Former George Heard was the first pupil to benefit from the generous offer, spending three weeks in Beijing last summer. He worked on a variety of projects, learning about the local working environment and understanding how entrepreneurs are succeeding in today's China.

Lower Sixth pupils are invited to apply for the all-expenses paid internship, including flights and accommodation.

The lucky winner of the placement will meet Chinese students who will show them around their neighbourhoods taking in restaurants around the city. The winner will also have dinner with alumnus Nicholas Smith (1982 - 1986), Artistic Director of the Peking Sinfonietta and the International Festival Chorus.

They will intern with Julian's company, Venture Education, which is currently working with the British Embassy, The British Chamber of Commerce, The UK's Department of International Trade and numerous schools and universities. Additionally, they will spend one day interning at the Mosto Group which runs fourteen of the coolest restaurants and bars in China.

They will also be given the opportunity to learn the basics of the Chinese language before visiting the Great Wall, touring the hutongs on electric bikes and seeing the Forbidden City.

Alumnus Julian said: "We're looking for an adventurous, open-minded, enterprising student to join us for a life-changing three weeks in Beijing. Understanding China will be essential for everyone in the future and we hope that this year's fellow will leave China with a far deeper understanding of the country, its culture and how their personal and professional future can benefit from this experience."

Head of Economics Stuart Mackintosh thanked Julian for his visit to Exeter School and the opportunity.

"Julian spoke to pupils about the growing importance of China on the global stage and the importance for all pupils to engage with China in the future for their careers.

"All the Lower Sixth pupils have been sent the entry criteria to take part, and I am willing to assist with any queries before the deadline in March."

Director of Alumni and Development Rachael Magee said: "This is an incredible opportunity and I am very grateful to Julian for thinking of Exeter School and supporting our pupils.

"This is a once in a lifetime experience that we would not be able to offer without him. It is another wonderful example of how the alumni community continue to enrichen Exeter School activity."

Lucky beneficiary George Heard said Julian taught him about the opportunities within developing countries and, as a result, has decided to spend his gap year in Ethiopia, Nigeria, Indonesia and Myanmar where he would like to develop the skills learnt during his Business Studies A Level course.

"This experience has opened my eyes to opportunities beyond the UK which will enable me to develop my skills quicker and open more doors. Julian has inspired me to rise with the developing countries' growth. After my gap year, I intend on studying Enterprise Development at Aston University and this experience will stand me in good stead."