Attention: You are using an outdated browser, device or you do not have the latest version of JavaScript downloaded and so this website may not work as expected. Please download the latest software or switch device to avoid further issues.

News > Careers News > Old Pocklingtonians Named Winners in Hull & Humber Top 30 Under 30 2026

Old Pocklingtonians Named Winners in Hull & Humber Top 30 Under 30 2026

Congratulations to Old Pocklingtonians Jessica Pidgeon (05-16) and Tom Needler (13-17), who have been named winners in the Hull & Humber Top 30 Under 30 programme for 2026.
27 Apr 2026
Written by Rachel Dare
Careers News

Their success places them firmly among the region’s leading young professionals, recognised for their outstanding achievements, leadership potential and contribution to their organisations and communities. Being named a Top 30 Under 30 winner is a significant accolade and reflects the drive, talent and commitment both Jessica and Tom have demonstrated since leaving Pocklington School.

Established in 2017, Hull & Humber Top 30 Under 30 is an annual initiative that celebrates exceptional individuals under the age of 30 while supporting their continued development through a year‑long LEAP leadership programme. The programme combines professional recognition with focused leadership training and networking, helping winners strengthen their influence and progress their careers within the region.

For Jessica and Tom, winning in the 2026 cohort offers both formal recognition and meaningful opportunity to enhance their leadership skills, expand professional networks and play a role in shaping the future of the Hull and Humber area. Many previous winners have progressed into senior management and leadership positions, underlining the programme’s impact.

Tom, a Project Resource Manager at Boston Energy said: "When I found out I was over the moon, it was really an unexpected surprise. To be recognised by my colleagues means a lot… I’m looking forward to learning a lot about myself but also meeting different people from different backgrounds and learning how they go through their work life.”

Jessica is a Process Engineer for power company VPI. She commented: “It was really exciting to find out I was one of the winners, you don’t expect to win; you know there are lots of other really excellent young people in this area. I think the programme is a really good opportunity to get to know myself better so that I can then learn some new tools to help me perform better at work, so I’m excited by that opportunity.”

Their achievements are a credit to their hard work and drive and reflect the strength and ambition of the Old Pocklingtonian community. The School and the OP Association warmly congratulate them on being named Top 30 Under 30 winners and look forward to following their continued success.

For more details about the Top 30 Under 30 programme and this year’s winners, click here.

Similar stories

Business Enterprise students at Pocklington School recently enjoyed two engaging talks fro More...

Pocklington School welcomed OP Colin Davis (71-78) back to campus for his first visit sinc More...

Lower Sixth student Joe recently turned to Pock Connects for support as he explored his am More...

Old Pocklingtonians provided valuable career insights and shared their professional journe More...

Earlier this month, Henry Laverack returned to school to speak to Sixth Form students at t More...

OP Ed Dare returned to Pocklington School to share his experiences since leaving school wi More...

Rising baritone star, Sam Hird (06-17), has been appointed a Jette Parker Artist at the Ro More...

A short film written by OP Hugh Stubbins (00-11) has earned a major accolade at the Edinbu More...

Most read

OP Seb Williman gives a career update, after his love of brass has seen him perform both in the UK and internationally and be included in the nominati… More...

Pocklington School commemorates 70 years of its Memorial Pavilion with an Armistice Day service, unveiling new names on the Rolls of Honour and sharin… More...

OPs took part in the Birkdale Bucket golf competition at Woodhall Spa as blustery conditions tested teams, Pocklington finished third, and eyes turned… More...

Submit your news