BBC Question Time returns to Northampton High School

January 2025 kicked off with a bang for Northampton High School with BBC Question Time returning to the school for another brilliant broadcast event.

Northampton High previously welcomed illustrious BBC Presenter Fiona Bruce in 2019. Hosting events like this are incredible opportunities for GDST schools and students, who benefit hugely from meeting and speaking with experts across industries.

The Debating Panel

The 2025 debating panel featured MP Sir Chris Bryant, former Conservative Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries, MP Calum Miller, Baroness Hazarika, and journalist Liam Halligan.

The panellists were welcomed by a team of students, who had the time to speak with them about their experience, interests – and of course, ask them their own questions too.

Behind the scenes of Question Time

Headteacher Dr May Lee joined BBC Radio Northampton host Annabel Amos for a candid conversation about what happens behind the scenes.

Dr May Lee, Northampton High’s Head has this to say:

“The excitement and buzz are still palpable here at Northampton High. Our Sixth Formers, who had the opportunity to meet the panellists before the programme began, will never forget the experience They engaged in discussions about the state of the nation and pressing issues that concern young people today, such as knife crime and grooming gangs.

‘We all learned so much about what it takes to bring a live broadcast to life.’ — Dr May Lee, Northampton High School’s Head

For both staff and students, it was fascinating to see and experience the setup required for a live broadcast. The sheer number of cables, equipment and technical kit was astonishing, and the transformation of the school hall was incredible. We all learned so much about what it takes to bring a live broadcast to life.” –

A proportion of the audience was made up of students’ families, with many staff watching from the gallery. You can catch up with the episode on BBC iPlayer.

About the Girls’ Day School Trust

Northampton High School is part of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST), the leading network of all girls’ schools across England and Wales. GDST schools are recognised as centres of educational excellence. Our teachers aim to inspire each and every girl, with a strong focus on developing the skills, knowledge and character they need for the future.

Find our more about the GDST