Flora Wirgman (Field's 2011-2016)

Works at Christie’s Auction House as a Clerk in the Client Services Department
Flora Wirgman

What A Levels did you study?

I studied History, Art, and Religious Studies.

If you went to university, where did you go and what did you study? If you didn’t go to university, what did you do instead?

I studied History of Art at Leeds University.

What are you doing now and what plans do you have for the future?

When I graduated I secured a place with Christie’s Auction House where I now work in the Client Services Department and as a Clerk (an assistant to the auctioneer). I plan to continue climbing the Art World ladder to eventually become an art dealer and auctioneer. Christie’s has been very helpful in my career start, sponsoring me to complete an Art Market Economics course.

What influence has Lancing College had on your life?

A huge amount of my Lancing life was spent in the art block as that was my primary passion. The Art department was extremely instrumental in organising guest lecturers on topics such as Architecture and Art History and these gave valuable career insights throughout my sixth form years. Thus, I was fortunate to have my further education and career trajectory options laid out for a career in art alongside me being an artist. When I was at Lancing, the Careers Week was amazingly helpful as I was able to attend a lecture given by a member of Christie’s. She gave wonderful advice on beginning my career and I don’t think I would be where I am without Lancing organising that!

What hobbies or interests did you pick up during your time at Lancing?

I was a huge fan of rounders; I really miss house rounders in the summer and netball. Perhaps I wasn’t so naturally gifted with netball, but I was really encouraged nonetheless and only have happy memories of playing! I picked up several hobbies throughout my time at Lancing, such as Yoga, Architecture, a band member, creative writing and writing articles for the school newspaper.

Are you still in touch with people you met at Lancing?

Yes! There has been no difficulty keeping up with my friends, having lived and grown up with them they feel more like family. While our career paths have taken us to different parts of the country and the world in some cases, I still feel like the main body of my closest friends are from my school days.

What OL activities have you taken part in since you left (i.e. OL sports events, Business Networks etc.)?

The lockdown and work has made this quite hard but I frequent the OL Carol Service, it is lovely to meet people of all ages from Lancing.

What advice would you give to a new pupil who is about to start at Lancing?

My advice would be to make the most of your time! Say yes to every opportunity and get involved with as many activities as you can, because you will miss it once you leave.