On Friday afternoon, we were absolutely delighted to welcome Jo Tutchener Sharp back to her old school!
Jo is the founder of the super-infused, purpose led brand, Scamp and Dude!
Jo attended Thomas Adams School and went on to study A Levels at the Thomas Adams Sixth Form. Jo then headed off to University studying PR, Media Studies and Design and moved in to fashion promotions.
With a long history in the world of fashion and beauty, Jo has previously directed PR campaigns for brands including Topshop, NARS and Matthew Williamson prior to her life-changing experience.
Scamp and Dude was launched back in 2016 following Jo having a brain haemorrhage. Jo had been separated from her children after undergoing life saving brain surgery. As Jo was recovering from brain surgery, she missed her kids, and wished for something to comfort them while she was in hospital. That’s how her SuperHero Sleep Buddies (cuddly comforters) were first created.
Jo told her journey to our Textiles and Graphic Design sixth form students, giving them useful advice and tips. Jo answered questions from the students and talked about the many jobs/careers available in the industry; from merchandisers to copywriters, buyers and graphic designers.
Jo talked about her new stores, latest collaborations, sustainability and becoming B-Corp Certified. Scamp and Dude’s ‘SuperScarf’ campaign, supporting women going through cancer treatment was also discussed. For every scarf sold, another is donated to a woman with cancer. So far, over 40,000 scarves have been donated.
Her clothing has been worn by many well-known celebrities including Billie Piper, Emma Willis, Fearne Cotton and Sophie Ellis-Baxter to name a few!
Scamp and Dude now has stores open in Edinburgh, Marlow and Battersea and employs over 80 staff.
It was fabulous to give Jo a trip back down memory lane. Her old school friend, also called Jo, is a member of school staff and gave Jo a tour of the school.
We thank Jo for giving us her time in her busy schedule – we look forward to seeing her again in the future!
Scamp and Dude Founder and ex-student, Jo Tutchener-Sharp with sixth form students
Ex-student, Jo Tutchener-Sharp, with member of staff, Joanna Smith, taking a trip down memory lane
