Former pupils of Bolton School gave students an insight into their rewarding career during a virtual discussion.

The talk marked the beginning of the school’s Perspective Lectures, which run every half-term and are organised by by the girls’ division and the school’s development office.

Alumni Chloe Granger, who left in 1998, told pupils how she became the director of Crosby Granger Architects Ltd, as well as a technical advisor for the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB).

Chloe said she has “always loved old buildings” and studied architecture in the hope she might get to work on them.

She has also worked on conservation projects on different buildings, including churches, castles, ruins, estates and mill conversions.

Her successful career also saw her work on high-profile projects across Manchester, including John Rylands Library and the Cathedral.

Pupils also heard from Emma Roden, née Platt, who left Bolton School in 1990.

Emma went on to become the director of Kimble Roden Architects Ltd, with an impressive 25 years worth of experience.

The former pupil talked about her experiences in different companies, the difficulties of navigating the recession and being made redundant in 2008, and the pros and cons of setting up her own practice.

Emma said: “Architecture is the perfect blend of creativity and problem-solving. It also combines arts and sciences in a way that no other profession does.”

She gave an interesting insight into the day-to-day tasks of an architecture, which included coordinating contractors, communicating with clients about models and drawings and organising projects.

She added that having an impact on the way that people live is “really, really rewarding.”

The speakers said skills needed to succeed in the profession include patience, diligence, compassion and interpersonal skills.

As the talk came to a close, students were able to take part in a question and answer session.