Writer of Sky Atlantic’s Patrick Melrose Returns to College

Barton Peveril Sixth Form College (@bartonpeveril) welcomed back alumnus David Nicholls, author of novels including One Day and writer of the screenplay for Sky Atlantic’s BAFTA winning Patrick Melrose featuring Benedict Cumberbatch, on Tuesday 16th March 2021.

After finishing his studies at Barton Peveril in 1985, Nicholls has had a prolific writing career. Alongside his novel One Day, which was later adapted for the screen in a film featuring Ann Hathaway, Nicholls has written four other published works; Starter for Ten, The Understudy, Us and Sweet Sorrow.

Nicholls visited virtually as part of the College’s Aspire Programme, offering students his expertise as an author and writer. The alumnus gave students an insight into his career, his writing process, and the formulation of ideas for his novels and screenplays.

The Aspire Programme is a programme of lectures and support that offers the most high-achieving students an opportunity to explore their subjects beyond the syllabus, assisting their applications to the world’s most renowned universities, degree-apprenticeships and employment opportunities.

A number of notable academics, professionals, and celebrities participate in the programme each year, with TV and radio presenter Adrian Chiles kick starting the programme’s 2020/21 schedule.

Nicholls praised the event and his participation as guest speaker:

“It was such a pleasure to revisit Barton Peveril, even electronically. I have such fond memories of my time there, the teachers I met and the friends I made. A fantastic two years.”

Speaking on his participation in the programme, Barton Peveril’s Head of Careers and Higher Education, Shoonagh Hubble, said:

“Barton Peveril students were treated to a fascinating insight into the creative process when novelist and screenwriter David Nicholls joined Subject Leader for English Literature, Tom Voaden, for a discussion about David’s work. 

“Students asked incisive questions on subjects ranging from the female voice to how to adapt literature for the screen. David spoke fondly about his time at Barton, particularly about the opportunities to do experimental writing and performance, and credits his time at the College as being formative in his writing career.”