In this episode of the AmazingStoke Podcast from the Destination Basingstoke Ambassador Community, host Mark Jones talks with Mark Henderson, Principal of Queen Mary’s College (QMC) — one of Basingstoke’s most cherished institutions.

Mark shares his journey from being a struggling student to leading a college that has educated over 100,000 students in its 50-year history. He talks about what makes QMC special, the changing face of teaching, and the importance of confidence, community, and curiosity in education.

You’ll also hear:

• How Mark discovered his passion for teaching while travelling abroad
• What makes QMC an open-access college serving every level of learner
• The story behind winning the Inspire “Best Place to Work” Award
• Why confidence matters more to employers than just grades
• Mark’s life advice for young people: “Life is not a race.”
• His reflections on joy, music, favourite books, and the small things that make work meaningful

This is a warm, thoughtful conversation about education, leadership, and finding fulfilment — both in work and in life.