Article March 12, 2026
Catching up with our alumni: Thomas’s journey after King’s InterHigh
Thomas Appleby first joined us at King’s InterHigh back in 2008 for a more flexible way of learning. After a brief period away, he returned to King’s InterHigh in 2015 before flying the nest from our student community a decade ago in 2016.
Today, Thomas is enjoying a thriving career as an event organiser, and social media manager, and content creator. We caught up with him to learn more about his experience with online learning.
What first led you to choose King’s InterHigh, and how did it suit your education needs at the time?
My family chose King’s InterHigh because we were looking for a more flexible option that would fit around my schedule and allow me to learn in a way that suited me. At the time, I needed an environment where I could focus better without distractions from a ‘typical’ classroom and still have access to qualified teachers and a wide range of subjects. King's InterHigh gave me the independence to manage my learning while still having the support I needed.
Do you have a favourite memory or highlight from your time at King’s InterHigh?
My favourite memory from my time would have to be the Hollywood Ball of 2013. It was such a great time seeing fellow classmates and friends!
One thing I find quite funny about it is that back in early 2015 (before I returned for my second stint) at the Interhigh Weekend, I met so many lovely students, parents and teachers; they all knew of who I was, and we all shared a good laugh over the rather ‘unique’ walk I did to enter the ball.
I think for a favourite highlight though, would have to be when I was involved in the school plays either when acting or being behind the scenes and making sound effects and music!
How did studying with us help prepare you for your next steps after school?
Studying with King’s InterHigh really prepared me for life after school because it taught me to be independent and take responsibility for my own learning. Managing my own timetable and studying online gave me strong organisation and self-motivation skills, which I now use every day in my job.
It also made the transition to higher education smoother, since I was already used to using digital tools and adapting to different ways of learning.
"King's InterHigh gave me the independence to manage my learning while still having the support I needed."
King's InterHigh alumnus
Once you left King’s InterHigh, what were your next steps?
After my time at King’s InterHigh, I went onto college and university to study media as well as film and TV production.
And where are you now?
This all led to me becoming an event organiser and social media manager, as well as being a content creator on YouTube and TikTok under the name of TomJacksonVibes.
What advice would you give to current or future King’s InterHigh students?
Don’t stress if it feels different at first — everyone adjusts at their own pace. Stay on top of your work by keeping a routine, and don’t be shy about asking teachers for help because they’re always there for you.
Also, try to take part in activities, it really makes the experience more fun and helps you connect with students.
Most importantly, enjoy the flexibility. Use it to explore your interests and make the most of your time here.
"Happy 20th Anniversary, King’s InterHigh! Thank you for two decades of inspiring, supporting, and empowering students around the world. I’m so grateful for the opportunities and support you’ve given me!"
King's InterHigh alumnus
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