On 3 June, Former US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton visited the region to attend David Miliband’s South Shields Annual Lecture at Harton Academy. The lecture was chaired by Sir Ken Gibson, Executive Head Teacher.
The lecture involved an inspirational and topical Q and A with students. Attendees were impressed by both the guest speaker and the music provided by local students.
Secretary Clinton in South Shields
During the lecture, it was revealed by a local genealogist that Secretary Clinton’s has roots in the North East, with a great-grandfather working as a coal miner in County Durham.
During the lecture, local MPs and Councillors chatted to Secretary Clinton about politics before twenty five students and staff members held a Q&A session. The students in the session included those studying A Level Politics, History and Geography.
Sir Ken Gibson commented:
It was clear that the students and staff, including myself, were in complete awe of Secretary Clinton. She was so decent, honest and lovely with the students and the entire session was surreal and immensely rewarding, stimulating and informative.
Questions revolved around topics relevant to the exams, touching upon subjects such as the Electoral College, the US tilt to the Pacific, the invasion of Ukraine, gun laws and Secretary Clinton’s biggest achievements as Secretary of State. Gun laws were particularly relevant following the recent school shooting in Uvalde, Texas.
Harton Academy
In Harton’s main hall, 630 guests were treated to music from exceptionally talented young musicians before welcoming both David Miliband and Secretary Clinton on stage.
Sir Ken described the conversation that followed as a ‘master class’ with Miliband ‘on great form’ and Secretary Clinton ‘simply inspirational’. The discussion covered topics such as Brexit and how to stay optimistic during ‘trying times’.
Sir Ken received extremely positive feedback from the attendees as they described the event as phenomenal, with Secretary Clinton receiving the first ever standing ovation from the audience in the 12th year of consecutive hosting of the Annual Lecture at Harton. Previous guests included former Prime Minister Sir John Major and musician Sting.
Schools North East’s Deputy Director Pauline Aitchinson attended the event as a guest of Sponsor Education Mutual. Pauline noted that the discussion between Miliband and Secretary Clinton was impressive but also emphasised how brilliant the students were, especially the musicians and singers.
Having Secretary Clinton as a guest at the event highlighted the region and in particular the students of Harton Academy. Many in the community were surprised to see Former first lady Secretary Clinton drop into a local fish and chip shop after the event. Although media coverage focused upon the curiosity of the former First Lady eating fish and chips, the true story is about Harton and its amazing students. Events such as this lecture, promote a positive image of the North East and showcases what the region has to offer.
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