Conquering the Northwest Passage with Mark Agnew

In this episode of Cargilfield Talks, we welcome former pupil Mark Agnew FRGS —an extraordinary explorer and record-breaking adventurer. Mark has earned titles such as European Adventurer of the Year, Endurance Asia’s Extraordinary Feat of the Year recipient, and ranked Top Explorer by World Explorer Collective.

Mark rose to fame after he and his teammates became the first to kayak the Northwest Passage. Today, he travels the world as a sought-after keynote speaker, specialising in resilience.

In conversation with Headmaster Rob Taylor, Mark reflects on his school days, sharing memories of outdoor adventure, rugby, and boarding life at Cargilfield. They explore his ambitious expedition through the Northwest Passage — a journey fuelled by a personal goal of immersing himself in nature and building camaraderie, all while facing life-threatening wildlife encounters and treacherous ice conditions.

If you're a former Cargilfield pupil and would like to meet Mark Agnew, join us for our drinks reception 'Reflections on a Scottish Childhood' at The Caledonian on 9th April. To RSVP or learn more, please contact us at events@cargilfield.com.

Cargilfield is the only stand-alone independent prep school in Edinburgh, providing a nurturing and stimulating education for children aged 3 to 13. We are proud of a broad curriculum, leading to Common Entrance and scholarship exams for children at 13 but teaching a wide range of subjects with specialist teachers from 8+. As a family school, we accept a wide range of abilities and personalities, but we believe that our small classes purposely kept at 18, high expectations and enthusiastic teaching allow our children to flourish. The Education Scotland Inspection Report 2023 rated our attainment levels as outstanding and sector-leading across the country.

Considering your child's future education? Discover more about us at www.cargilfield.com.