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 > Alumni News > Old Stopfordian George’s Journey from SGS to Camp Kaizen

Old Stopfordian George’s Journey from SGS to Camp Kaizen

From SGS to outdoor adventurer, discover George Chatterton's (OS 2017) journey to creating a unique outdoor hybrid training experience - Camp Kaizen.
9 Jan 2026
Alumni News

George Chatterton, who left Stockport Grammar school in 2017, has followed an inspiring and unconventional path since his days at School. A standout sportsman, he went on to play professional rugby for Sale Sharks, Exeter Chiefs, and represented England Rugby 7s in Hong Kong. When an ACL injury abruptly ended his playing career, George didn’t step back, he pivoted. Spending his formative years at Stockport Grammar, George was clear that his time at school taught him resilience, self-belief, and the value of building his strengths on an off the pitch.

“My ability to pivot and be confident in my capabilities certainly comes from my time at Stockport Grammar. I still meet up with lots of other Old Stops, and I do think it’s testament to the school we all still see one another. SGS provided us with such an inclusive environment to grow both our academic and non-academic skill sets together and it’s fantastic to see so many Old Stops coming forward to be involved in my next adventure.”

After studying Geography at Exeter University, George headed to London in 2021 to undertake a graduate role at a recruitment company. In four determined years, he climbed through the ranks to become Managing Director in 2025. Yet even amid his corporate success, George never lost the pull of the outdoors, especially to the Lake District, a love born on school trips whilst studying at SGS. He vividly remembers sitting in a kayak out on a lake with his classmates, suddenly aware of the stillness, the scale, and the beauty that exists beyond the everyday desk job.

That memory, and a lifelong urge to test himself, led George and his brother Patrick to host a series of trips to the Lakes for friends, family, and fellow Old Stopfordians. The response was electric. Out of that momentum, came Camp Kaizen: not a retreat, but an outdoor hybrid training camp. The aim isn’t to focus on weight loss or personal aesthetics; it’s outdoor experience, self-discovery, and pushing yourself to either better your ability or realise your potential.

From the beginning, Camp Kaizen has been powered by the Old Stops community. Alumni have tested early itineraries, shared feedback on routes and recovery protocols, introduced local suppliers, and even given brand discounts to support future participants. It has been and continues to be a genuine team effort from Old Stops; practical support, professional expertise, and a shared belief in what George and Camp Kaizen can do for people who crave challenge and connection.

What does Camp Kaizen look like?

The Core Camp is Kaizen’s signature experience: mixed groups, multi-day training, and friendships forged through shared effort. The Masters Camp adds a networking dimension for high achievers and those 35+, blending physical challenge with mindset work and meaningful conversation away from the hustle and bustle. And the Ultra Camp is the ultimate test. It’s an ultra-distance run one day (45–50km) and a local three-peak challenge the next.

Guests will be supported by thoughtful recovery, expert guidance, and proper fuelling. Across all camps, the standard is the same: tailored pre-camp training, trained staff, glamping accommodation with raised beds, and a programme designed to help you prepare for everything from marathons to HYROX, long hikes to CrossFit, and beyond. Most importantly, each camp is a platform to rediscover what you’re capable of.

Whether you join to train, explore, test yourself, Camp Kaizen gives people space to get out of routine, reconnect with nature, and build a mindset that lasts long after the final summit. In every sense, it’s a testament to the power of the Old Stops network: inclusive, supportive, and quietly relentless!

If you’re an Old Stop who’d like to take part or support the camps, George welcomes messages and introductions. Get in touch to join the next cohort, volunteer your expertise, or discuss partnership opportunities—and help more people experience Camp Kaizen. Check out the website to learn more Camp Kaizen

 

 

 

 

 

Similar stories

A new chapter begins - Stockport Grammar School's new Sports Pavilion will create inspiring spaces for every pupil to thrive, play and shine in 2027. More...

Class of 2025 return for Christmas drinks and the Senior School Carol Service at St George's. More...

Camilla Poulton née Lakin (OS 1996) remembers Former Head, Mr Bird More...

Plaque unveiled at Stockport Grammar School to honour work of former pupil Lucy Hope (OS 2004) More...

We remember those in the SGS community who lost their lives during both World Wars, and subsequent conflicts, with our a… More...

Most read

Old Stopfordian Dr Anthony Freeman ((BSc (Hons) (PhD) (F. IEEE)) (OS 1976) reflects on life after SGS More...

Camilla Poulton née Lakin (OS 1996) remembers Former Head, Mr Bird More...

1982 Ooxbridge Candidates

In 1980, after 493 years of the education of boys, Stockport Grammar School began the transition to become a fully co-educational school. More...

Have your say

 

Send us your news


image

Contact Details

Stockport Grammar School
Buxton Road
Stockport
Cheshire
SK2 7AF

+44 (0)161 419 2408
Email Us
www.stockportgrammar.co.uk

Legal

Community Privacy
Development and Alumni Privacy

Visit Us / Contact Us

Registered Charity No.
1120199