In a recent visit that stirred both nostalgia and inspiration, Cranbrook School was delighted to welcome back Robert Joyce, an esteemed OC and the current Deputy Director of the Institute of Fiscal Studies (IFS). This special event provided a unique opportunity for our A-Level students to engage with one of their most accomplished predecessors.

Robert's journey since leaving Cranbrook is a testament to his dedication and intellect. As a student in the sixth form, he was a key member of the team that achieved victory in the Bank of England's Target 2.0 Interest Rate Challenge, a remarkable accomplishment that set the tone for his future successes. He graduated from Cranbrook with an impressive array of top grades, a feat that paved the way for his further studies.

Pursuing higher education, Robert attended Oxford University, where he completed his undergraduate degree in Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) with first-class honours. His academic pursuits didn't stop there, as he went on to earn a Masters in Economics from University College London (UCL). 

Robert's career at the IFS began as an Economic Researcher. His dedication and expertise saw him rise through various roles, leading to his current position as Deputy Director. In this capacity, his work, particularly with the Social Metrics Commission and on issues of modern inequality, has been invaluable and widely respected.

The event allowed Robert to share not only his extensive knowledge of economics but also his experiences and insights about life after Cranbrook. His visit was more than a lecture; it was an inspiring dialogue with the next generation of Cranbrook students, offering them a glimpse into what the future could hold for them.