Arsenal Legend Visits Oxted School

Arsenal legend David Dein MBE visited Oxted School on Wednesday 11 September and passed on inspirational advice to selected Year 10 and Year 11 students. 

It is rare for parents and students to email in before a speaker has visited to say thank you. The careers inbox was filling up prior to the event with messages of excitement and anticipation. The talk surpassed expectations. We cannot thank David Dein and the Speakers4Schools initiative enough for selecting our school to host such an eminent guest.

The former Arsenal vice-chairman, famous for bringing Arsene Wenger to the club, delivered an upbeat and heart felt talk. He drove home the importance of having ambition and working hard, and even shared a poem he had written himself.

He addressed some key skills he looks for in business when he meets someone new.

“A firm hand shake, good eye contact and a big smile. Do not keep your head down, stand tall and be proud.”

Mr Dein commented on the impeccable behaviour of our 250 students, describing them as “attentive, keen, a credit to the staff and school.”

After the presentation there was an opportunity to ask questions and many photos were taken. Year 11 Wil, who is a huge Gunner’s fan and turned 16 on Wednesday, received a personal greeting from David Dein during the talk. Wil’s reaction was priceless.

Students particularly enjoyed Mr Dein’s final and simple message.

“My own personal motto is that of the turtle - you don't get anywhere unless you stick your neck out."