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Choose with confidence, our knowledge and support make the FORD PEUGEOT VAUXHALL APPROVED SUPPLIERS difference, call today! In this issue... 04 Routes to Pupil Wellbeing innovative Australian programme 06 Eco-initiatives Transform School Life ban on one-use plastic bottles 08 Outdoor Learning opportunities & benefits for urban schools too 10 Preparing Students for University Life homesickness; etiquette; independent study Performing Arts 14 Making Science Matter scholarship launch remarkable partnership scheme can be introduced elsewhere Polwhele House School, Cornwall, has launched a 24 Profile new performing arts scholarship to provide talented in conversation with Iain Kilpatrick performers in the region eligibility for a bursary plus a range of other opportunities. 36 Sporting High-Achievers & Their Academic Studies Headmaster Alex McCullough, said: “It is important how to strike the right balance to us at Polwhele House to recognise talent in the arts alongside academic achievements. We offer a range of opportunities for our children 44 ‘Throwaway Culture’ & the Teacher Retention Crisis – including tuition, lessons and extra-curricular is there a connection? sessions and our regular performances are always well received. We hope the scholarship will promote the importance of the performing arts and help Plus talented children achieve their aspirations.” 09 Chinese hear of British schools’ extra-curricular expertise The scholarship will allow pupils to receive over 12 How school libraries can evolve successfully 8 hours of tuition in performing arts per week, alongside representing the school in competitions 16 Transport, Travel & Trips Focus Feature and performances, participate in workshops with 26 Finding the recipe for resilience – conference report specialists and develop their leadership skills and 27 Sixth international campus on the way personal progression. 28 Music, Dance & Drama Focus Feature The scheme is run in association with Jason Thomas Performing Arts, a well-established dance 34 Tutoring ‘complementary’ to classroom education school based in Cornwall, which has been providing 35 Top-Tips to get your students into US universities training for students for the last 17 years with 36 Sports & Sportswear Focus Feature many going on to attend prestigious dance schools around the world. In tune As part of Bromsgrove School’s ongoing commitment to the Performing Arts, the School has taken receipt of a state-of-the-art concert 28 Music, grand piano featuring sophisticated VC technology and an independent Capo d’Astro for perfect Dance & Drama 36 Sport & Sportwear adjustment in the descant registry. There are less than 100 such instruments across the world. The Digest; Heads Hunted; Editorial Advisory Board; Key Personnel; Full story page 30 Contact Us pages 46 & 47. Is Your School Mentioned? A-Z on page 47 LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL A SCHOOL OR NURSERY National SchoolTransfer For a Professional – Confidential Service www.nationalschooltransfer.com Email: [email protected] Tel: +44 (0)1980 621251

Independent Schools Magazine 3 The route to wellbeing Head teacher Marina Gardiner Legge explains how Heathfield School, Berkshire, has implemented an innovative Australian programme for happiness, wellbeing and sound mental health.

With mental health continuing Accomplishments), it fits well to feature prominently in the with Heathfield’s pastoral care news, the central importance system. In addition to this the of happiness and wellbeing is programme includes a physical never far from our minds. Taking health element looking at sleep, a positive approach to help diet and exercise which are students develop the ‘pillars’ of key aspects of life in a vibrant good mental health to stay well boarding school. and optimise quality of life is The survey included in the key, and with careful planning programme only takes 10 this can become an integral part minutes and can be done as of school life. part of a pupil’s PSHE lesson At Heathfield School we have on their own laptop, slotting in chosen to implement an well to the existing curriculum. such prolonged periods of initially discovered it while innovative mental health and The delivery of individual results contact with pupils – including looking for a process to establish wellbeing programme which takes place with senior pastoral involvement in their sleep and a baseline for mental health and has taken Australia by storm leads and each feedback session nutrition. emotional issues for new pupils and we’re fortunate to be is timetabled to fit in with the at his previous school. Our senior the first UK school to adopt individual pupil’s own timetable; Our Director of Pastoral Care pastoral team has the strong the programme. Rather than this can include use of tutor Kathryn de Ferrer and Director foundations needed to deliver identifying those in distress or ‘at time, PSHE time and boarding of Boarding John Gale, both the programme. risk’, the ‘Flourishing at School’ time, making Flourishing at hugely experienced individuals, programme aims to promote And the cost of the programme Schools well suited to the take the lead in delivering the wellbeing from the outset. in time and money? The ease of boarding environment. The programme and individual application of this programme As Flourishing at School is based results are scrutinised and an feedback sessions, which we have and survey is surprising given the on leading psychologist Martin individual plan is created for been able to integrate seamlessly vast positive impact it has. When Seligman’s work on PERMA each student, regardless of her into our school day. They are mental health is flourishing, (Positive emotion, Engagement, ‘score’. supported by the PSHE team and you are better able to deal with Relationships, Meaning, Form Tutors, all of whom are The results the pupils receive problems or issues and develop skilled at delivering high quality are taken directly from their resilience and grit. Some may wellbeing initiatives and have own answers, as opposed to argue that Flourishing at Schools adapted their experience readily the results the senior pastoral comes at a significant cost but to the Flourishing at School leads see. This is done to protect for us the cost of running the programme. the pupils from comparing programme is negligible, as its themselves against average John Gale has worked with the value is incalculable. scores, and shows us where our founder of Flourishing at School, Heathfield is the first school pupils are already flourishing, Jason van Schie, for over a year in both the UK and Europe to while also identifying any areas and a half now, bringing the introduce Flourishing at School, that need further development programme to fruition. Jason and we hope to lead the way in or pastoral intervention. has come over from Australia creating a Flourishing at School Crucially, this is a primary level to spend time with us and has network for schools in the UK intervention to make sure our worked with our staff, pupils and that adopt the programme, pupils are mentally fit and parents, educating them with with John Gale and Jason van healthy – and is proactive rather regards to the Flourishing at Schie recently speaking to the than reactive. It is particularly School programme. John also has HMC Wellbeing Committee useful in a boarding school strong background knowledge on its success and ease of environment where we have about the programme, having implementation at Heathfield.

4 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] The route to wellbeing Pupils ‘thrive’ on workshop A Yorkshire prep school has seen its Mother of four Mrs Jones said: Year 5 and 6 pupils “thrive” thanks “The Thrive Programme is all to their participation in a unique about teaching people to create wellbeing workshop. good mental health, and it was The taster session at Ashville Prep marvellous being able to deliver this School saw the children participate session here at Ashville Prep School. in a fun and interactive session to “The programme can be used to boost self-esteem, reduce social overcome many different issues, Rugby’s Nigel Owens speaks anxiety and give them greater self- including exam stress, lack of awareness, led by teacher Esther confidence, phobias and anxieties.” Dauntsey’s School, Wiltshire, discussion with Nigel over dinner. Jones. pupils and members of the local Conversation ranged from his “It is also highly beneficial for The Thrive Programme, of which community enjoyed a fascinating early family memories, his views any children or teenagers who are Mrs Jones is a consultant, is a fun talk from Welsh international on modern day rugby, through to struggling to cope with a new and interactive programme which rugby union referee, Nigel Owens how it felt to officiate his 80th diagnosis or manage a chronic or gives children, teens and adults MBE. Nigel gave an enthralling international rugby match this alike the skills to gain a sense of life limiting condition. It’s about and inspiring talk about his prolific month during the NatWest Six power and control over their lives. getting people flourishing and refereeing career and then spoke Nations Championship. enjoying life.” frankly about his life, his struggle Ashville is the first junior school in Following dinner, Nigel delivered with mental health issues, and the the country that the organisation Ashville Prep School Headteacher his lecture to some 1,000 people, importance of accepting yourself has worked with, and the plan is Simon Bailey said: “The wellbeing packed into the School’s Memorial for who you are. The event was that the boys’ and girls’ experience of pupils is extremely important to Hall. He captivated the audience part of the School’s annual Mercers’ will help shape a full school us and this session was extremely with his honesty and humour Lecture series. programme currently being written beneficial to all those Year 5 and 6s and provided food for thought by Mrs Jones. who took part.” A group of 18 Sixth Form when talking about his early life, students ran a pre-lecture including the bullying he suffered. Pupils embrace wellbeing day At the end of February, pupils At the Senior School, the morning Sports centre under construction across the school from Infants to sessions involved talks on key Construction has now begun on As part of the build there will also Sixth Form took part in Abbey wellbeing topics, such as mental the new £6 million Sports Centre be a new multi-use games area for Gate College’s first Wellbeing Day. health first aid, alcohol awareness at the Grange School, Cheshire. sports such as netball and tennis, and time management. which will be fully floodlit and laid The pace of life, concerns about Due to be completed in December with a high performance surface. school work, friendships, parents The afternoon saw pupils learning 2018, the new Grange Sports New changing and catering and the impact of social media new skills, getting active, getting Centre will provide a high level facility including premier facilities have been incorporated on children’s lives means that it outside in the fresh air, working netball, badminton, football, and into the design which will further is more important than ever for together, getting hands-on, basketball courts. enhance the user-experience. pupils to learn how to manage learning strategies around stress and take care of their own resilience and managing anxiety, Other facilities will include an area In recent years the school has taking time out from the usual wellbeing. tailored for activities such as yoga, enjoyed considerable national routine and getting creative. dance, gymnastics and aerobics, success in netball, hockey, The whole school were off Pupils chose two activities from a dedicated area for rowing rowing and athletics, whilst also timetable for the day so that 21 possible choices, ranging from machines and free weights, an encouraging participation at all pupils could participate in a variety yoga to gardening, mindfulness external climbing wall and bespoke levels of sport for general fitness of talks and activities themed to money skills and camp craft to classroom facilities. and wellbeing. around positive mental health and chess. wellbeing. The sessions focused on Feedback from pupils was enabling students to understand overwhelmingly positive, with their feelings and emotions and children saying how much they develop strategies to look after had enjoyed the day and felt their own wellbeing, as well as inspired. that of their friends. Head of Pastoral, Nerys Moses Younger pupils enjoyed a mixture said: “When you hear a Sixth Form of activities, including singing for pupil leaving a session of yoga fun, dance yoga and British Red and loudly announcing, ‘That was Cross first aid, and participated in one of the best things I have ever workshops such as personal safety done!’ you realise how worthwhile Pictured: Mrs Debbie Leonard (Head), Nigel Bantleman (Site Manager, Seddon Construction) with sixth form with PC Sally Malone. it is to devote time to wellbeing.” students Miles Hogg and Ella McGrath

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 5 Eco-aware initiatives transform school life & attitudes The devastating impact of waste plastics in the oceans, and the widespread popularity of one-use plastic drinks bottles, has received much publicity of late. But St Mary’s School, Essex, has been keeping well ahead of the curve, as Sarah Wilding, the school’s Eco Co-ordinator, reports.

All schools have a responsibility Having begun simply by recycling Club as well as offering items coffee pods and even bras for to create a sense of stewardship, a few used plastic bottles and the the school no longer needs recycling. Even to collect litter not only to the young people odd cardboard box, in September • collecting and donating bras on the school field and count in their care, but also to the 2007 I decided to carry out an for Breast Cancer bugs for our annual biodiversity wider community. We can see audit of what we were doing study. Our students were getting • being part of the organisation it as a way of future-proofing. and where we could go with our the message that every one of us Virtual Skip At St Mary’s Colchester we eco-friendly initiatives in school. can make a difference; no matter • uniform recycling for cash to have completely embraced I brought together a very small how small your contribution, it re-invest in Eco Projects environmentalism and Eco Team – the caretaker and all counts. sustainability and these are I were joined by a few willing • considering environmentally With a new Year 7 cohort integral to our school ethos, student volunteers drafted in sound options, such as timed joining every September, it was from our School Development from St Mary’s School Council – lighting and installation of important to keep up the eco Plan through to delivery of the and together we formulated an photovoltaic solar panels, when momentum. This is perhaps carrying out refurbishment at curriculum. Eco Action Plan. the hardest part, but the eco the School message has become so ingrained We set out on our Eco journey Staff and students at the school committed to recycle as When getting these initiatives in the St Mary’s psyche that at St Mary’s in a very small many materials as possible and off the ground, we found the the older students take it upon way: the school caretaker and I initiatives were put in place to structure of the Eco Schools themselves to pass the baton to gathered together any used or ‘reduce or re-use’, including: organisation extremely helpful. their younger friends. It is no unwanted materials lying around Established by the environmental coincidence that the Eco Schools the school that we knew could • recycling all packaging and charity Keep Britain Tidy, Green Flag award has to be be recycled; I would take some reusing it for art projects this is the largest educational re-applied for every two years – home with me and he would load • making good use of the local programme in the world, every new generation of students up the school mini-bus with the Freecycle in order to obtain engaging millions of children in must show the same level of rest and take it to Colchester’s items for School use, such as 67 countries and inspiring them commitment as the last. recycling facility. How things water butts and plants and to consider the environment and Joining the Eco Schools have changed! seeds for the School Gardening how they can help to safeguard programme gave us a lot of it for future generations. Eco support and training as well as Schools representatives visited a wealth of online resources, us to assess us for their Bronze which have allowed us to refresh Award and we passed with flying our approach on a regular basis. colours. We quickly progressed to Any school looking to become Silver - in record time, apparently involved in eco initiatives would - and went on to receive our first be well advised to become a part Green Flag in July 2008. of it. This success encouraged interest Many schools think that they in eco initiatives at St Mary’s need to have their roofs plastered to grow and with it grew our with solar panels and mini Eden Eco Team. Our students were projects in their school grounds keen to volunteer to help dig – I call it Eco ‘Bling’ – and find the school’s garden and pick our the whole concept of becoming own produce, to collect pens, a more sustainable community

6 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Plastic water bottles banned Keen not to contribute any bottles that can leak into further to the high volumes drinking water. of plastic waste produced St Mary’s Eco Schools Co- locally and globally, students ordinator Mrs Sarah Wilding at St Mary’s School have taken the decision to no longer use said: “After reading the single-use plastic water bottles Guardian article A million with packed lunches, choosing bottles a minute: world’s more environmentally-friendly plastic binge ‘as dangerous as re-usable containers instead. climate change’ our Eco Team felt compelled to act. The ban The water bottle ban was on single-use water bottles suggested by the school’s and our Eco Week events student-led Eco Team, whose gives us the opportunity to daunting. However, they often A commitment from the Senior members are encouraging the do not realise that all the small Leadership Team is also needed student body to make use of send the message to the rest things they are probably already in order to give credibility to refillable bottles. This is largely of the school community. doing can be recorded and whatever you are trying to to reduce the number of The students presented their celebrated. Once that initial audit achieve. The way to sell any plastic water bottles reaching research and ideas about has been carried out, it is fairly eco initiative to SLT is that it landfill, but also to ensure how the whole school can straightforward to establish an will end up saving the school that students are not harmed get involved during a special achievable Eco Action Plan. money and will form a part in by chemicals from over-used assembly.” their Whole School Development As a school, we re-visit our Plan by satisfying the school’s Action Plan on an annual basis Corporate Social Responsibility and discuss what we have Policy. achieved and how we can build on these achievements. We We also try to surround ourselves discuss what we were unable with likeminded organisations, and try to influence our to achieve and how we can stakeholders to follow our approach things differently. We example. We are always looking try to have a main focus every for fun and innovative ways year - this year it is reducing to engage students and staff, our plastic waste, which has from our bi-annual ‘Grub in a proved to be quite controversial; Tub’ competition – edible plants however the media attention and grown in containers ranging the pressure from the students from guitars to suitcases - to our has been the driving force in FEEDING annual Trashion Show – make pushing for a whole school ban an entire outfit from recycled on disposable water bottles. INDEPENDENT materials, including shredded Young people today are naturally paper, tin cans and household inclined towards saving our rubbish. Our gardening skills planet. have been recognised in the local Initially you do need a community through Colchester in Bloom, the local agricultural MINDS ‘champion’ to spearhead the school’s eco campaign and to show and further afield in the holroydhowe.com 01189 356707 inspire others and, yes, you Royal Horticultural Society’s do need to be determined school gardening competition. and tenacious. However, once We have won countless local, other members of staff see how regional and national business important this is to the young awards for Environmental people they teach, it is difficult Awareness over the years and not to jump on board. I have this is a really important way of FOODSERVICE CATERER CATEYS 2016 even heard of primary schools sharing best practice – and our designing their entire curriculum enthusiasm - with others for the around Eco Schools! benefit of the next generation.

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 7 Outdoor learning ~ opportunities everywhere Schools in urban areas often feel that outdoor learning isn’t for them. But Robin Davies explains how even students in inner cities can benefit.

It’s long been accepted that encouraging at all. Moreover, if a school’s idea of developing year groups and subjects to ensure a tightly children to get out of the classroom into the character is based solely on a week away at an woven fabric of learning. great outdoors is beneficial. The idea that letting outdoor centre, inspectors and others could well In urban areas planning can require more children experience nature at close quarters, ask what it is doing to support and nurture it for negotiation and creativity – transport is more allowing them to get their hands dirty and the rest of the year. complicated, open areas are less accessible. But acquainting them with their environment has Outdoor learning done well should not be a they do exist. Teachers may not be able to go never been a difficult proposition to sell. flash in the pan – and it can be done well in the full Bear Grylls in major cities– but they can This widely held idea has increasingly been backed cities as much as in the countryside. To inculcate usually access local parks. They can organise a up with educational evidence. According to the wellbeing and develop academic potential, trip to a museum or to a theatre or even the local National Child Development Study, a longitudinal whatever is learnt outside has to be linked post office. If that isn’t always an option, they can piece of research that tracks almost 10,000 back to what is learnt inside. There has to be a use outdoor learning nearer to home. They can people born in 1958, children who belonged to seamless weave between the activities children ask their children to measure plants in the school the Scouts or Guides were about 15 per cent less pursue outdoors and the curriculum taught garden if they have one, or to read Macbeth in likely to suffer anxiety even at the age of 50. in the classroom, otherwise whatever benefits the playground as it was originally performed – in Other studies have discovered more immediate students derive can be easily lost. the open air. benefits. Outdoor learning can reduce attention At the heart of outdoor learning is a paradox deficit disorder and rates of myopia among Of course, outdoor learning, especially for children, support wellbeing, enhance creativity – the opportunities are endless, however, older students, often falls victim to curriculum and increase memory. the curriculum’s learning objectives can be pressures. But if it is seen as a necessary prescriptive and finite. Ideally teachers should complement to the curriculum rather than an Accessing the great outdoors, however, is not take the opportunities offered when they arise accessory to it, and even better, hitting learning so easy for schools in built up areas. Which is – if it’s a sunny day, out into the playground objectives from two or three subjects at the same why residential trips have become popular. They their class can go. However, to be effective time, it becomes a lot easier to do. foster children’s engagement with learning by this seeming spontaneity should be planned. showing them why what they learn at school is Everything teachers do outdoors or on a trip At its best, outdoor learning contextualises important. And for inner-city children they give should be aligned to their students’ learning, theoretical learning. Maths students trying to them an experience of the countryside many will otherwise back in the classroom the lessons understand volume, for instance, will most likely not have had before. learnt just fizzle away. This means teachers have learn it better if they are allowed to measure Excellent though residential trips are, however, to plan beforehand what they wish to teach. It water in containers in the playground. And they have one obvious drawback – most schools also means the SLT have to be astute enough that lesson can be learnt as easily in London or can only access them infrequently and some not to oversee the full framework of trips across Manchester as it can in Surrey or Hampshire.

Robin Davies is Assistant Director of Education at the Cognita Group of schools. Tree planting initiative Pupils from The Study School, Surrey, took the is also Chairman of Malden and Coombe Royal Defra (Department for Environment, Food and classroom outdoors as they planted free trees British Legion, to talk to the children about the Rural Affairs) is supporting the Trust to deliver from the Woodland Trust with the Deputy Mayor significance of World War 1 and the work the 400,000 trees to primary schools in England over of Kingston, Cllr Mike Head in Green Lane British Legion does to support veterans.” four years. Recreational Park, New Malden. Schools can apply by visiting the Woodland Trust The Woodland Trust’s Schools and Community website or searching for ‘school tree packs’ on-line. The school successfully applied for a Copse pack Engagement Manager Karen Letten said: “Trees Trees are delivered twice a year, in March and November. www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/freetrees of 30 silver birch, rowan and wild cherry trees create inspiring learning spaces - natural, from the Trust after hearing about the scheme sustainable, and dynamic outdoor classrooms from a TV advert. where pupils can mix mud with maths and spades Ciarán Mc Auley, Deputy Head Teacher from with science while connecting with nature and The Study School, said: “The students get a having fun. It’s these lessons that the children will sense of purpose, a sense of ownership, they are remember well into adulthood.” doing something for themselves, their school, Woodland Trust commissioned research shows their local community and they really enjoy that. that primary age children who plant trees felt We decided to plant the trees in Green Lane as that they were ‘doing their bit’ to help the a memorial to those who died in World War 1 environment and remember it as a significant and we were lucky to have Cllr Ken Smith who experience.

8 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Head shares his thoughts on British extra-curricular expertise Brendan Wignall, Headmaster of from China, including those in There were also other Chinese Ellesmere College, Shropshire, Academic pursuits, Music, Drama, dignitaries there and a large addressed a select group of and sporting achievements; they group of teachers from Chinese Government ministers were thoroughly impressed. Shanshayuan Shangyou School while they were in Britain. “Children in many Chinese in China, who were attending a He spoke at a British International schools have very little time 10 day intensive teacher program Education Association event for arts, sport, leadership with BIEA to learn best practices about the benefits of extra- opportunities or further global in UK schools. curricular activities in British engagement activities. “The best questions were those schools. “The heavy focus on academic that really made you think, but He said: “We have offered advice results means children may study at the same time were easy to to a number of Chinese bodies until midnight with just a few answer; ‘What makes a successful over the years about broadening hours of sleep”. school?’ being one,” Mr Wignall the education system that added. Mr Wignall (pictured right) they have and addressing the addressed the group on a variety “The answer is a committed examinations; a philosophy which development of people who can of important themes, including leadership team, an excellent is paramount to the continued become leaders in their own safeguarding, academic rigour, set of professional teachers, country, very much modelled on success of nurturing our curriculum development, pastoral a globally recognised set of what Ellesmere has to offer. students.” support and boarding school qualifications and a broad “It was a great honour to be management. approach to pupil development Following the talk Ellesmere asked to share our experiences to via an expansive co-curricular College will have the opportunity Government ministers Mr Xu, such an elite audience. programme. Minister Counsellor of Chinese to host, and take a key part in, “I was very proud to share Embassy, and Mr Ho, of UKCBA, “At Ellesmere we believe that teacher training programs with Ellesmere’s wide range of were among the audience at the developing the whole pupil is BIEA and visiting teachers from achievements with the teachers event in London. much more than just passing global schools.

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Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 9 Preparing students for the contemporary university experience How well are schools 70% of students will experience in a handbook or syllabus. The David Tuck is Head of Politics at Stamford 1 Endowed Schools is the co-author of ‘Political preparing their students for homesickness . This is not of problem is exacerbated by a lack Ideas’ published by Hodder Education university? What are the course a new problem but digital of formality. Every academic technology makes it easier for has a story about a student’s contemporary challenges students to isolate themselves email beginning ‘Hey Tony’ – or that students face? If in virtual seclusion. Schools, we indeed without any greeting at all. TV dramas like Skins are suspect, drastically underestimate Students used to texting and social anything to go by, sex and this problem and it is rarely media are unduly colloquial and drugs dominate the scene. discussed explicitly with students struggle to recognise the grades Yet comedian Stewart Lee before they leave for university. of formality within university life. Stamford Endowed Schools are Admittedly, academics do not has been critical of such creating a programme to address make it easy. All but the oldest portrayals and doubts this issue, based partly on links with are children of the less deferential that youngsters are really the National Citizen Service (NCS) society that the UK has become so ‘confident, savvy and which university guidance guru over many decades, and many cool’ when they arrive at Liz Salt has described as ‘the best are comfortable with first names Rob Johns is Professor of Politics at the university. kept secret in education’. Let it be rather than titles. Yet academics University of Essex and is author of Takeover: 2 Explaining the Extraordinary Rise of the SNP a secret no longer. The NCS has a are not without a sense of their published by Biteback So, while it is entirely tailored programme of volunteering own importance and they resent intellectual ownership. Plagiarism and teambuilding activities any assumption of informality. appropriate that those is covered in some ‘A’ level involving two weeks living in An echo of French classes can leaving sixth form will subjects with heavy coursework university campus dorms. It targets be useful here. Hopefully most have received guidance on elements, but all students should Year 11 students and gives them sixth-form students can still be made explicitly aware of what headline-grabbers such as a taste of the twin experiences of distantly remember the distinction it is and how to avoid it. This drugs, alcohol, sexting, and being away from home and living between the formal ‘vous’ and so on, this still leaves many with new people. Impressively, the the informal ‘tu’. They then need might reasonably be thought the students insecure about and whole experience currently costs no to learn the norms of usage: you job of universities but, through more than £50 due to government begin by using ‘vous’ with any convention more than lack of unprepared for some of the time, they provide too little such more mundane social issues backing, so there are no cost potential authority figure, but may implications for schools or students. then receive a signal to switch to guidance – especially on academic and personal challenges that Meanwhile, within Stamford ‘tu’. The rules in academic life are practice beyond plagiarism. To university presents. Endowed Schools there is a thriving the same: assume formality, and give their leavers a running start, schools need to incorporate this This article’s authors are cooking-for-university course and switch to informality if invited. this year this is being extended to into their own programmes. a Head of Politics and These may seem trivial issues but include washing and ironing skills. understanding them not only saves Schools have become adept Citizenship at Stamford Most fundamentally, all students embarrassment and stress but also at preparing students for the Endowed Schools and a will be given specific guidance helps in the building of personal more lurid aspects of university Professor of Politics at the on recognizing homesickness and relationships with academics – life but at the expense of the University of Essex. They strategies for tackling it. potentially a very rewarding part of more mundane – and the more have often compared notes Like interactions with peers, university life. common. Through proactive on these overlooked issues... interactions with academics do The challenges of independent working between schools and the three in focus here are not always slot easily into place. study are manifold. There are universities, and eliminating each’s guesswork about the homesickness, etiquette, and Part of the problem is lecturers’ questions about what and how complaints of a perceived lack to read, how far students can other, students will receive a independent study... of initiative. Schools accustom and should work together, how much improved preparation. With mental health and students to extensive support to take notes during lectures, and Recommendations from such mindfulness now part of the and a swift answer to questions. above all about the notorious collaborations can easily be national consciousness, schools Academics are less accessible issue of plagiarism. This crime worked into existing personal need to offer more specific and and less willing to respond is so much more tempting given development programmes, and practical guidance about the to queries about things like the ease of cutting and pasting, the National Citizen Service in challenges of leaving home. essay deadlines and textbook and also more confusing in an particular provides excellent life Research from the University of availability – especially when age of streaming and file sharing experiences at minimal cost. To Warwick show that that up to answers could be readily found which has blurred the concept of be forewarned is to be forearmed. 1 https://warwick.ac.uk/services/counselling/informationpages/homesickness 2 www.teachingcitizenship.org.uk/national-citizen-service

10 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] First MFL SCITT Trainee Steph Millar has become the first the life of the MFL department, trainee teacher to pass through attending INSET, departmental Bolton School Girls’ Division as meetings and even consultation part of a new national Modern evenings. She completed lots Foreign Languages (MFL) School of lesson observations in the Centred Initial Teacher Training department and to gain an idea (SCITT) programme. of teaching languages across all The innovative link-up between stages, she also visited Bolton state and independent schools is School Junior Girls’ School to led by Sheffield comprehensive see younger pupils being taught Silverdale School and is aimed French. During her placement, at attracting more Modern Steph also observed a PSHEE Takeover! Languages’ teachers. Bolton lesson and some History lessons It was all change once again at Assemblies in both the Prep School is the Northern partner in order to help her with her Rosemead Preparatory School and and Pre-Prep departments. He Nursery, London, where a new joined the teachers for coffee at and hub school for the scheme Content and Language Integrated breaktime and had lunch with and it is anticipated that Steph Headmaster was installed – just for Learning assignment (teaching members of the Senior Leadership will be the first of many trainees the day! subjects such as science, history team. He was able to tour the passing through the school. After only joining the school as and geography to students classrooms to check on learning Headmaster in September, Mr Phil and signed some important letters Steph spent a busy half-term through a foreign language). Soutar found himself cast aside as with the Head’s PA. at Bolton School, taking on Mr Magnus Tibbalds, age 8, took Steph now returns to Silverdale a Year 8 and Year 10 Spanish over the running of the school Magnus described his experience School to complete her as ‘fun and exciting’ whilst Mr class as well as undertaking for the day. Magnus had won this Soutar, who was able to regain his some team teaching with Year 7 professional training and to her opportunity in a competition and position as Headmaster at the end first placement near Sheffield as took to the role effortlessly. French, Year 7 Spanish and Year of the day said ‘rather worryingly, she strives to achieve her Post 9 French. She shadowed a Year After greeting parents and Mr Tibbalds did a great job and I 10 Form in order to get a better Graduate Certificate in Education pupils at the school gate, Mr will be looking over my shoulder understanding of the role of a and gain Qualified Teacher Status Tibbalds then led the Celebration for his approval in the future.’ Form Tutor and also shadowed (QTS). Pictured at work: Mr Tibbalkds, Dawn Stewart the Head’s PA., with Mr Soutar in the background

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About Password Since their launch in 2008, Password tests have been Password Pupil has given King’s Ely a single-platform used by for accurate and reliable “gold standard” “ testing management system for years 6-13 for all our English language and maths assessment. The tests, international applicants. The content is rigorous, valid designed by experts and aligned to international and randomly generated and managing the system standards, are used overseas to facilitate student has proved simple with excellent customer support recruitment and admission, and in the UK for from the Password ELT Team. From an academic point screening on arrival. of view the system offers a cohesive way to compare results to the CEFR and general English levels while Secure test delivery, results and certificates are all the online writing tasks are varied and appropriate for simply managed online eliminating the need for sending Academic school-level English. Within the school we papers and scripts backwards and forwards, marking, have become far more efficient as Password means and subsequent data input. Password’s accurate results all of us in admissions and management can access can be relied upon for admission to secondary results directly, reducing emails and phone calls on a education, GCSE, A level and IB programmes. day-to-day basis. Password has given us a bespoke, Password tests are delivered by our partner schools’ professional and effective product that exceeded our own staff and trusted representatives, or by the British expectations and meets our international admissions Council, wherever and whenever required. needs completely.” Matthew Norbury, Academic Director of International [email protected] Programmes, King’s Ely, Cambridgeshire www.englishlanguagetesting.co.uk

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Schools conf half page Ad Jan 2018.indd 1 Independent Schools 08/01/2018Magazine 14:30 11 “Social media has its place and that is away from the thriving interactive hub we have created...” The evolving role of a library, not just a place to read books! Julie Littler, librarian at Abbey Gate College, Cheshire, discusses how important it is to get the right provision for pupils in terms of lunchtime activities and the active role a library can play. “Some young people live with their Maybe started by the librarian yet was a great boost. Pushing out head in a book; transported to often easy to leave unsupervised new themes and displays every different worlds, fighting dragons, once individuals have joined and week can be a challenge but kayaking down the Amazon or exchange is underway. Other it keeps the library fresh and learning how to breathe again constantly accessible ideas include purposeful. Staff are wonderful after their first broken heart. puzzle books, monthly prize- in providing display items too. Some become habitual memory winning activity sheets known as Less than 24 hours from sending a week on edible rewards is money sponges for the eating habits of a the ‘I’m Smarter Than You and out a quick email, I have offers well spent. narwhal or short-tailed chinchilla. I Like Chocolate’ quiz, advanced of bagpipes, snooker tables and It thrills me that school libraries colouring books and pencils, a scuba equipment! It took the “So yes, we have books. They have incredibly successful book ‘Quick Pick’ section with ‘Where’s staff a short time to adjust to the are in plentiful supply and kept loan schemes and reading clubs. Wally?’ books, the ‘Guinness Book new approach to the library but right up to date with exciting However, we must never neglect of Records’, the ever-popular their support is unending and new publications arriving on a those who use the library as a ‘1001 Cars to Drive Before You invaluable. regular basis. The arrival of new comforting cover story or a security Die’ and ‘Beano’ annuals. All of books always causes a frenzy these offerings are conversation “On a practical level, it takes a of excitement. We talk about blanket. School libraries are so dedicated librarian to run the much more than books on shelves. starters and the librarian can the books and share favourite help to nurture this and involve library as it is. The planning, snippets. Sometimes throwing “At lunchtimes they are a go-to others. I am constantly surprised preparation and delivery of diverse questions into the mix. area for those who may not be and delighted where young minds everything takes time but even ‘How different would ‘Swallows drawn to the football or hockey can wander to and the challenges just 12 hours a week, including and Amazons’ be if everyone pitch and those who may or may their inquisitiveness can overcome. an hour a day of contact time, had a mobile phone?’ or ‘Which not have the confidence to walk They have nothing to prove to a can make the plan work. Devoting character from any other author into a science club or debating librarian. No tests to complete. time to train student assistants would really shake things up if they society. Many students come Everyone is equal. Although it is to properly run the loan system, were placed in Hogwarts?’ Again, process logging and backing new alone, so the welcome needs to a ‘No Phone Zone’, there are no after initial encouragement by books is essential. Not only in be warm but not overpowering. ‘Silence’ signs in our library. the librarian, these are all student assisting in time management Having weekly themes and printed led. Traditional printed books are “Very soon, the same faces will but in enhancing the pride and quizzes (with a supply of pencils a mainstay and should always be appear and participate in events respect students have for their and chocolate for prizes) available so. It supports diversity in lifestyle. such as candleholder making space and facilities. by the door enables a purpose for for Diwali, ‘Cake and Classics’ With young people being exposed each student to walk in and feel and team quizzes. Teaching and “‘Rugby Six Nations Week’ was to so many different situations occupied. Then once they are in, support staff and students of all ideal to promote health and sports and their minds able to process a supply of reassuringly consistent ages are encouraged to come along injury books. Open them up too, so much more information and and also fresh, engaging activities to every event. Once more, barriers a closed book often doesn’t have ideas than ever before, sometimes await them. are broken down, friendships are the interaction. Get some fresh we just need to approach reading bread and Brie in for ‘French Week’. differently. Students already have “A weekly chess club, hosted by made and confident young people Students and staff will have to the imagination. Giving them the friendly Sixth Formers, grows in emerge. Having two long-term ask for it in the correct language guiding hand to feel confident its popularity, but a selection senior library assistants and a team of course! ‘Magic Week’ conjured in sharing their ideas without of board games based on luck of younger ones serving for a up unknown talents of students judgment or classroom restraints is rather than skill is more inclusive. term each, it becomes a badge of honour. These quiet students are and staff in an encouraging and a librarian’s privilege. supportive atmosphere. Year 7 soon creating and hosting quizzes. “We have just two computers in the ...libraries are a go-to students became celebrities and They are presenting awards to library and they are for homework others and come September, the Geography teachers were seen in a area for those who only. I may research something circle starts once again. whole new ‘cool’ light. may not be drawn to online upon request but social the football or hockey “Five years ago, the library was “Financially, as with everything else media has its place and that is away very traditional. A good stock of in education, it pays to be savvy. A from the thriving interactive hub pitch and those who books but students said that they discount on book buying is a must. we have created. We have a haven may or may not have felt uncomfortable in the silent Donated board games are welcome for all students, habitual readers atmosphere. An empty library is but a decent stock of quality chess or not, where they comfortably the confidence to walk a waste of resources and space. sets and basic games are a real mix with all year groups and staff. into a science club or The weekly theme was the first investment. Apart from that, a Where the atmosphere is very much debating society change. Having a display area good supply of chocolate prizes is inclusive and minds and spirits are outside of the external door a great incentive. Just one pound constantly enlightened.”

12 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Picture Book Award winner The evolving role of a library, Bishop’s Stortford College has announced the winner of the ninth Bishop’s Stortford Picture Book not just a place to read books! Award. Following the voting in which 16 local schools took part: 3rd place; Dogger (the 40th anniversary edition) by Shirley Hughes. 2nd place; Kevin by Rob Biddulph. And the winner, voted favourite by 12 Sixteen local schools in schools, Bathroom Boogie by Clare Hertfordshire and Essex took part Foges and Al Murphy. and over three and a half thousand This is a second win for this votes were cast. Any other local partnership. Their previous book schools who wish to take part next Kitchen Disco also won the Picture year are invited to get in touch. Book Award two years ago. Maggie Garrett, Senior School Martin Brown, illustrator of Librarian said, “It was lovely Horrible Histories announced to meet local primary schools the winner after an hour in the involved for the first time this year company of the shortlisted authors as well as the stalwarts who have and illustrators who introduced a cast of pigs, wolves, grannies, cats, been with us since day one. This frogs and a rather dim dog. The event just keeps on growing, and Cruella lives audience learned to draw Kevin, the picture book choice just gets Cumnor House, Sussex, celebrated an imaginary friend and boogied better and better too. We have World Book Day when the whole on down to the Bathroom Boogie. some of the best illustrators and school participated, both pupils and Everyone had a whale of a time writers in the country coming to staff – with many dressing the part! and are eagerly anticipating the this event and it was great to see 10th anniversary event. three previous winners returning.” Getting more kids active and maximising potential in those who have talent There are currently 7 million children aged between five and 15 years in England – and nearly four out of five of those children are not doing the recommended 60 minutes of daily exercise. Whilst others are showing real potential in their sporting achievements and could benefit from extra support to enable them to achieve their full potential in the future.

Public Health England and There are over 200 speakers to shave milliseconds off a sprint A wide range of equipment and ukactive are supporting a major including BBC’s Dr Michael Mosley, time, or to boost endurance so facility products will also be exhibition and conference Sport Relief coach Greg Whyte you stay at the peak of your game available within the international aimed at physical activity and OBE, ukactive Kids chairman Dean throughout the entire 80 minutes exhibition, from the latest gym healthcare professionals to offer Horridge, Dr Mike Loosemore, of a rugby match. Of course, that’s equipment with new product free advice on how to get more Martine Verweij from Kids Run part of it – but it’s also about launches from suppliers such as kids active and how to recognise Free and Dan Edwardes from reducing stress, helping students Matrix, Watt Bike and Concept and support grass roots sporting Parkour Generations. Subjects stay focused at their studies and 2, to play equipment, climbing stars of the future. Elevate 2018 covered include getting kids active fuelling day-to-day life through walls and swimming pool anti- is completely free-to-attend and at school, keeping teens active, informed nutrition. drowning technology. For those will be held at ExCeL London on driving participation for those with In a two-day programme of free- looking to invest in new gym Wednesday 9th and Thursday disabilities and maximising potential. to-attend seminars the full range facilities or renovations there 10th May. of performance will be covered are also a wide range of facility The conference sessions and Maximising Potential -from the role of psychology and providers from flooring and seminars are aimed at physical When you hear the word nutrition among elite athletes, acoustics to full range solutions activity providers, sports coaches ‘performance’, the natural reaction through new innovations in from Willmott Dixon. and fitness experts in order to is to think of elite athletes – personalised programming for increase activity levels in children but everyone can benefit from maximum results; to the vital and teenagers, create more enhanced performance, both in importance of sleep, meditation, inclusive activities from grass amateur sporting endeavours and nutrition and recovery in roots and to help identify and everyday lives. Performance doesn’t optimising everyone’s performance support talented athletes. just mean intense training designed in their day-to-day lives. Dr Michael Mosley Prof Greg Whyte OBE Find out more and register for your free pass to attend online now at www.elevatearena.com

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 13 Making Science Matter Rarely are projects run solely to spread enthusiasm but the Abingdon Science Partnership, ASP, does just that. Its aim is quite simply to get children, students and adults interested in science. Set up three years ago by staff at Abingdon School, the Partnership’s focus is community science, getting involved with schools, clubs, local organisations and events. Now entering its fourth year, ASP has been hugely successful so far and has a very bright future ahead of it. The model could be copied by other schools... Jeremy Thomas, the ASP Co- which hosts activities and events and their families in Abingdon and Gloucestershire. The Partnership ordinator says: “We want everyone including Science Oxford’s beyond. The sessions are always supports CREST at ten schools to explore science, not just to Saturday Science Clubs which well received – families love the with around 300 Year 2 and learn what’s on a syllabus, and regularly attract up to 60 primary exciting mix of hands-on science Year 3 pupils gaining the Star it’s exciting no matter what age aged children and their parents. and inspirational teaching that the award each year. ASP has also you are. We started with our own The clubs, which are practical and Partnership provides.” become a catalyst for the ideas but now we are part of big, hands-on, are run voluntarily by Brownies, Beavers, Rainbows, growth of local STEM outreach national projects such as the Polar ASP staff and Abingdon School Scouts and Guides all use the activities, supporting these in Explorer Programme which puts students. They explore diverse ASP lab. Children can work on both maintained and independent primary school children in touch topics from building rockets and badges, Science Investigator and schools and youth groups. with scientists working in the polar investigating fossils to making Star Gazer, and get involved with The Partnership works with regions, and ATLAScraft where models of human digestion. And projects such as clean water and local community organisations secondary students from several they’ve even run science for adults sanitation in developing countries. including the annual Abingdon schools constructed a virtual too with a ‘Gunge for Grown Ups’ Interested parties include 10 ATOM Festival of Science and version of CERN’s ATLAS detector evening. Downing St who invited the 30th Technology. in Minecraft. We want people to Abingdon Beavers to visit and Sophie Batin, Education Outreach Louise Warren, Head-teacher of see how fascinating science can demonstrate their project. Manager at Science Oxford said, be, and not just the headline stuff Buckland CE Primary School, “The Abingdon Science Partnership ASP’s activities cover over – every day science is great too.” said, “We had the privilege of has been invaluable in supporting 50 schools and community sending three of our classes to The Partnership has a dedicated our programme of fun, interactive organisations across Oxfordshire, the Abingdon science lab. The science lab at Abingdon School science activities for young people Berkshire, Wiltshire and children all returned, challenged and enthused having taken part in a wide range of activities from investigating floating and sinking and using levers to create water extraction devices, to the excitement of Bunsen burners heating different compounds. Our Year 5 and 6 children were captivated by comparing the DNA of a human and a shark whilst our younger ones await their turn with great anticipation.”

​Jeremy Thomas said, “We have made great strides in our first three years and we’ve been overwhelmed by the response. It’s fantastic to see how exploring science in different ways can really capture the imagination, particularly of school age children. If ASP and other initiatives can continue to fuel this enthusiasm then I’m very optimistic about the future of science in the UK.”

14 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Advice on setting up your school’s (science) partnership Jeremy Thomas’s top tips: Things to try: • Appoint a member of staff to co-ordinate activities, with a A+ substantial timetable reduction • Decide on whether you can support regular or one-off events • Find out if local schools have any existing networks supported Question: by local education authorities or school consortia • Look for national organisations supporting partnerships in your area Which ground-breaking such as the National STEM Learning Centre and the Ogden Trust • Look at existing schemes such as BSA CREST Awards which provide legal consultancy has: structure and resources for activities (www.crestawards.org) • Consider paying external providers to run workshops and invite other schools to join in, for example the National Space a) an indisputable, in-depth Academy (https://nationalspaceacademy.org) • Consider which staff will want to be involved, focus on knowledge of the education volunteers first as not all staff will be interested (however when they see others enjoying it, it becomes infectious). sector, and; • Use older pupils as mentors or ambassadors to run clubs and activities for younger pupils • Spread the activities across different year groups to avoid the b) the highest degree of same pupils being targeted expert employment law, Potential pitfalls: • Staff time and conflict with other duties and activities health & safety and HR • Logistical challenges in finding venues for visitors during the school day services – all conveniently • Evening and weekend activities ease pressure on facilities but can have staffing problems located under one roof? • Transport costs if working with schools over a larger area • When running activities mixing visiting pupils and pupils from ( ) your own school, consider the ratio carefully as pupils in their Answer for top marks : own school tend to be more confident lawatwork.co.uk What are the benefits? • Connecting pupils and staff with a wide variety of people outside the school • Increasing staff experience and the variety of teaching skills Employment Law • Making peer observation and collaboration a natural part of everyday activities Human Resources • Giving pupils opportunities to develop essential skills in Health & Safety leadership, communication and teamwork • Raising the profile of your school in the community To find out how we are disrupting the market with expert, value for money advice, email [email protected] or call And finally: 0141 271 5555 to arrange an appointment. Getting a massive buzz from every successful event and a sense of achieving something of genuine, educational value.

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Artwork Independent Schools Magazine 15 Client: Law at Work Doc: 1-00102394.006 LAW A+ IndepSchoMag (270x90) AW Project: Independent Schools Mag Size: (270)mm x (90)mm A/C: Alice AW: RB C M Y K Date: 07.03.18 Version: 1 A dedicated minibus compliance course is launched in response to the discovery of a shocking gap in knowledge

Chris Maynard, MD of Castle Minibus explains why he has developed and launched the MCC Minibus Compliance Course especially for school staff members.

‘In a recent survey of our existing school check on at any time, unlike a private car the school operating not for profit/hire or reward customers we were shocked to discover that DVSA can stop a school minibus for no reason – they are told to move onto question 21. So, over 60% didn’t know what a section 19 or perform spot checks within schools on its even the application for a section 19 permit permit was. A section 19 permit is required maintenance and management. doesn’t make the safety inspection element by not-for-profit and schools with charitable clear. (Castle will be writing to the DVLA and status to enable them to run a minibus Change of recommendation select committee on this point). without a CPC commercial operators licence. to 10-week checks Castle Minibus is a trusted advisor to It is essential that every minibus has and Our survey was completed whilst we called schools and we are the champions of displays one. They are cheap at £11 and easy existing school clients to check they knew minibus safety and the MCC will give staff enough to obtain, but they do require certain the government and Community Transport a clear understanding of responsibilities, administration and safety considerations to be Association (CTA) had changed their procurement, legislation, training, completed, such as regular safety inspections recommendation that minibuses should maintenance, compliance and health and and accurate record keeping etc. If a school receive safety inspections and maintenance safety, including a practical minibus safety doesn’t know about section 19 permits it checks by qualified professionals every check and an introduction to Castle’s free is unlikely they will know about their legal 10 weeks as opposed to the previous School Transport Manager app that makes obligations when it comes to managing their recommendation of 17. checks and reporting quick and simple. minibus. Unfortunately, minibus management “DVSA recommend that inspections are carried The first compliance course will be held is just not seen as an area where formal out at least every 10 weeks. You must ensure in Bicester in April (already fully-booked), training or education is needed. that a safety inspection is carried out before delivered by Castle’s advance driver trainers If a teacher or member of staff is given it’s used, if your vehicle is used very rarely.*” and ex-traffic police, but we are able to deliver additional responsibilities such as first aider More alarming perhaps than the 60% who the course to schools across the UK. We are or SEN co-ordinator they will receive training had never heard of a section 19 permit, were in the process of accreditation for the course to ensure they understand what the role the 70% who had no idea the checks were from RoSPA and have already received the entails. As far as we can see school transport required at all. backing of several large school, safety and managers, or those members of staff given driver training associations such as the ISBA, the responsibility of managing the minibus Skipping over the safety checks IMTD (Institute of Master Tutors of Driving), don’t have that kind of training or education As Castle Minibus’ customer service guided Graham Feest Road Safety Consultancy and available to them. schools through the application for the section the MSA (Motor School Association of GB).’ We are not talking about training to drive the 19 permit on the government website, they For more information visit minibus, we are talking about all the issues noticed that a recent change means question www.castleminibus.co.uk/driver-training/mcc surrounding compliance that the DVSA can 20 on safety inspections is skipped over by any or call 01869 717569

*www.gov.uk/government/publications/section-19-and-22-permits-not-for-profit-passenger-transport/section-19-and-22-permits-not-for-profit-passenger-transport#annex-2---recommended-maintenance-arrangements

16 Transport, Trips & Travel ARE YOU IN CHARGE OF YOUR SCHOOL MINIBUS?

You are invited to attend

Castle’s Minibus Compliance Course (MCC)

Delivered by our highly experienced driver trainers and ex-traffic police personnel, this one day workshop is educational and engaging and will take you through all aspects of minibus compliance, legislation and the recent Section 19 permit changes.

Currently this is the UK’s only minibus compliance course designed specifically for schools.

Book now quoting MCC-ISM to take advantage of our introductory offer of only £195 (+vat)*

Contact Castle Minibus on 01869 253744 or email [email protected] to book your place or find out how we can bring the course to you.

*bookings to be made and paid for in full by 30th April 2018 First night away The Knighton House School, the investigation with hot water, Dorset, year 5 pupils took a leaves, mud, sticks and grass in the trip to the field studies centre, woodland was anything to do with Nettlecombe Court, in Somerset. their investigations in the science The trip is one that covers many lab, but gradually they learnt that subjects in the curriculum, and language such as ‘fair test’ and beyond, as well as providing the ‘control’ is not limited to the lab. pupils with an exciting night away The history of Nettlecombe and lots of fun. Court (it is first mentioned in the Nettlecombe Court itself is a Domesday Book of 1086, when it field studies centre which prides was stated to be held by William itself on being environmentally the Conqueror) links directly with aware; the girls learnt lots about the pupils’ study this term of environmental awareness - from Medieval history when they return our local responsibility to the wider back to school. effect of global warming. Historians visit Ypres As well as all of this outdoor The investigation of the best learning they built dens, sang Yr9, 10 and 11 historians from in the muddy trenches, feeling materials for a hedgehog’s nest songs around a campfire, played Towers Convent School, Sussex, very sombre and grateful to the linked directly to their work in games on the ‘croquet lawn’ and made their way to Ypres in soldiers, who had endured such the science lab; they were able finished the trip with a scavenger Belgium to see the battlefields degrading conditions for so long. to understand first-hand the hunt around the extensive grounds. thermal properties of materials Given the cold February weather and show their respects to the At The Menin Gate three pupils, that a hedgehog might use the lashings of hot chocolate went soldiers, who died in the First whose relatives were buried for hibernation. At first they down a storm. A super first night World War. The group visited there, took part in the Last Post struggled to understand that away from home for many. war cemeteries, where pupils Ceremony. They laid a wreath, and staff laid poppies on the on behalf of The Towers, under graves, row after row of them, the gate in front of hundreds of neatly positioned and respectfully onlookers, definitely a once in a maintained. They also walked lifetime experience. Helping young people reach new heights since 1941 The Outward Bound Trust is a method to enable young people leading educational charity that to realise their true potential and uses the unpredictability of the develop character. From their wilderness to stretch young people centres in jaw-dropping locations physically and mentally until they in Snowdonia, the Scottish Eye-opening business excursion Highlands and the Lake District, achieve something they never Sixth formers from Derby High was very pleased to accompany highly qualified Outward Bound® thought was possible. School were given an insight the trip to JCB this year as the instructors guide participants Since its beginnings over 75 years into the world of business with a feedback from previous years through outdoor adventure and trip to a world leader in making ago, The Trust has remained had always been really positive challenge to embed learning and construction and agricultural – they run a very slick corporate committed in its belief that learning skills that typically go beyond those machinery. Business Studies operation at JCB, which was very about yourself happens best out in which are learned in the classroom. students spent the morning at interesting for students to see, the wild, away from the comforts of These include independence, JCB, in Uttoxeter, where they were but the highlight was later in the everyday life. Experiential outdoor leadership, teamwork, self- given a tour of the site, watched visit when we were able to go learning is a vital educational awareness and resilience. the production line in action and into the manufacturing area of visited the company’s museum. the plant and see the machinery Alec Lee, Head of Sixth Form being made and assembled from at Derby High School, said: “I start to finish.”

Find out more at www.outwardbound.org.uk/schools

18 Transport, Trips & Travel D1 or not D1? – That is the question Should NON D1 holders be allowed to drive a • medically fit weight allowable if the bus is adapted for school minibus? John Couppleditch, Sales Director • you’re driving on a voluntary basis and the occasional wheelchair use (removable rear seats for Eva Minibus examines the issue in more detail. minibus is used for social purposes by a non- and a lift or ramp). During conversations with schools it is still evident commercial body Let’s now concentrate on the that opinion is split about allowing members of • the maximum weight of the minibus is not voluntary driver condition staff without a D1 to drive a minibus. more than 3.5 tonnes – or 4.25 tonnes Schools must take a cautious approach to the including specialist equipment for disabled ‘voluntary driver’ angle for the following reasons. A D1 category on the driving licence allows the passengers, for example a wheelchair ramp holder to drive a vehicle capable of carrying 9-16 • no towing The fact that the member of staff is not being passengers. paid ,that driving is not in their job description, Those passing their driving test after 1st January Let’s focus on minibus weight that they may be driving in their own time does 1997 will not have D1 on their licence. Year on The 3.5 or 4.25 tonnes they refer to is the gross not make it driving on a voluntary basis. vehicle weight – The maximum weight that year there are more drivers within schools without The derogation from the D1 requirement was the vehicle is allowed to operate at, including D1 (Anyone 38 and under). created to avoid penalising NON D1holders who passengers, fuel and luggage. Can a minibus be driven without a D1? wanted to give their time for a charity group. You should be mindful of available payload when This is different from an employed teacher driving According to www.gov.uk/driving-a-minibus operating a minibus. students to a fixture as part of their job. “You might be able to drive a minibus if you hold a car driving licence and meet certain The payload is the difference between the The Road Traffic Act, uses two key words ‘cause conditions – otherwise you’ll need to apply for unladen weight of the vehicle and the gross and permit’. The fact you have ‘allowed’ the a minibus licence. vehicle weight. school employee to drive the minibus creates an occupational driving relationship between the If the minibus is not for ‘hire or reward’ Let’s look at an example of a 15 seat minibus at 3.5t GVW school and the driver. You might be able to drive a minibus with up If you subtract the actual vehicle weight from Until there is a test case to define whether to 16 passenger seats using your current car the 3.5t GVW allowance you are left with driving for a school, even when employed is driving licence as long as there’s no payment approximately 70kgs average payload per seat classed as voluntary I believe that schools are from or on behalf of the passengers (it’s not (including the driver). operating at risk if they allow non D1 drivers to for ‘hire or reward’)”. Considering luggage or sports kit, you can see drive minibuses. Conditions you must meet that in the case of teenage students you will Schools should be managing all risks relating to You can drive a minibus within the UK as long easily risk operating that vehicle as overweight. drivers, vehicles, and journeys. EVA are offering as the following conditions apply: This weight issue can be addressed either by free compliance audits for schools running • you’re 21 or older reducing the number of seats – 14 including minibuses to ensure they are operating as safely as • you’ve had your driving licence for at least driver would be more comfortable. Or you can possible and allowing your pupils to gain access 2 years operate a 17 seat minibus by using the increased to some fantastic external learning opportunities.

5 reasons why you should use EVA for your school’s transport: • We offer flexible buying and leasing terms • As well as short term rental • We provide fully inclusive D1 Training courses • We offer fully accredited MIDAS

• IT’S THE BEST USE OF YOUR Contact us now - t. 0844 414 2906 - e. [email protected] SPORTS PREMIUM FUNDING www.evaminibus.co.uk

Transport, Trips & Travel 19 Introducing Minibus Lite Minibuses are an integral part of your school’s daily function and we have an option that makes it ever easier and more economical to run – Minibus Lite, as presented by Bentley Walker Minibus

While minibuses have long been a necessity for schools, something not as many have been aware of is Minibus Lite – an affordable and versatile lightweight minibus which can be driven on an ordinary driving licence. Minibus Lite was first introduced to address the situation where the number of teacher volunteer drivers with the automatic D1 entitlement on their driver licence was diminishing. Drivers who took their B category driving test after Jan 1st 1997 were limited to smaller, lighter vehicles.

The Lite solution was a design where the vehicle maximum Mass was kept within the permissable amounts provided for within the schools section 19 permit.

This huge benefit provides schools with the previously accustomed to anyone who passed their test Euro 6 emissions engines, more hatch and on board or underfloor number of potential drivers while prior to 1st January 1997, but not stringent seat strength tests, tilt wheelchair lift – simply discuss still being safe, legal, compliant to anyone who passed after this tests to ensure vehicle stability your options when you call to and cost effective. There are a date. A D1 licence is a category and importantly, production get your Minibus Lite and it whole plethora of reasons which which is required to legally drive conformity standards monitored can be tailored for your needs. make Minibus Lite a smart option a minibus on a public road – and by the UK vehicle certification Whether you need it to transfer for your school. therefore a necessity for teachers agency. equipment, pupils or for a range looking to take pupils out. of different purposes, this ease Put simply, the highest levels of Firstly, there are a whole host of of modification means you can Due to the lighter weight of safety, quality and environmental financial benefits. With school tailor your Minibus to your Minibus Lite as opposed to other performance. budgets continually facing organisations’ precise needs. minibuses, it can result in the fuel cuts, it’s important to make The Lite concept also has Minibus Lites’ can be ordered cost being less, making it more your own budget amendments the benefit of providing fuel on a range of finance options economical. Whether to a school where necessary, but without economy and generous passenger and paid on a fixed monthly trip, a sports match or to transfer compromising on the quality and luggage weight capability, cost so there are no nasty and between campuses, minibuses of a service or the safety put very useful on those sports trips. unexpected financial surprises! towards the children. Minibus Lite are a vital part of your school No restrictions have been lifted When speaking about Minibus eradicates the need to invest in a network and if you can easily, since 1997 and the requirements Lite, Julie Gogarty, the Managing D1 licence which can be expensive legally and safely save costs when investing in them, it can only be a for vehicles have actually Director at Bentley Walker said and also require teachers to take good thing. become stricter. Every vehicle “Minibus Lite is a great option for time out of teaching to take it. A is professionally modified for schools. We hear so many cases D1 licence is automatically given The minibus Lite has achieved purpose and includes a high where schools are hit by budget the highest level of approval, standard spec with features such cuts or don’t have the time for European whole vehicle type as electric windows, electric teachers to take tests for their D1 approval (EWVTA) with standard, mirrors, central locking, electric approval on their licence. Minibus reduced mobility and wheelchair door mirrors and Lane Departure Lite takes away all this hassle and accessible versions in the range. Warning System. Optional cost issues and enables schools Requirements of this level of features can include CCTV in to focus on what really matters – approval include the latest the rear cabin, an opening roof the pupils.”

20 Transport, Trips & Travel Snowy adventure A group of twelve Second Form well as a day of tough quests at equipment and each other in this about the Swedish way of life pupils from Dauntsey’s, Wiltshire, the Boda Borg centre. The pupils demanding environment. This and how the locals cope with the spent half term in the North of had to look after themselves, their was also an opportunity to learn arctic conditions in the winter.” Sweden on an ‘Arctic Adventure’ of a lifetime. Their base was the city of Skellefteå which was blanketed in thick snow throughout their stay, with temperatures rarely above freezing and as low as -16°C. The pupils tackled a number of challenges including shopping for 150kg of food in another language, cooking their own meals, cross country ski-ing, snow shoeing, ice fishing and night hikes in the snow. The group also spent some time in a Swedish school, learning about what life is like as a teenager in Sweden. Sam Moore, Head of Adventure Education, Dauntsey’s, who led the trip, said: “This exciting trip was a new addition to our adventure education programme and proved to be a great success. We created an itinerary which was a mix of challenges in the snow as

Transport, Trips & Travel 21 Survive and thrive in the winter wilderness Sledding with husky dogs, children got to grips with their building snow caves, and fishing environment straightaway and through ice holes were just some made the most of the experience. of the skills mastered by Lewes It was particularly gratifying to Old Grammar School (LOGS), see them tested on their practical Sussex, pupils on their latest skills at the end of the expedition school expedition. by taking part in a cross country Nine students in Years 10 ski expedition which included an embarked on an experience to emergency “scenario”. They did an Finland for a survival skills course amazing job of creating survival on the frozen River Tornio and bags which could take casualties into the surrounding tundra. out of difficult forest terrain and The trip saw pupils embrace the we felt very proud!” hostile elements as they skied “Our students were captivated Immersive and snow-shoed across the ice. by this once-in-a-lifetime Tasked with building their own experience,” said Tim Laker, expedition level base camp, school bursar and operations pupils cut and shaped ice blocks, educational manager. “It’s inspiring to see created their own cooking area, and learned how to strategically pupils flourish outside of their arrange tents to avoid harsh comfort zones and learning how experience to survive and thrive in extreme winds. conditions prepares them well for Dinosaurs in the Wild is landing at London’s Greenwich Peninsula for Before heading on the excursion, life in England too. an extended run until 31 July. The show is an immersive, live-action students spent a weekend educational experience that enables teachers to take school groups of learning emergency first aid and “A trip like this really goes 7-11-year-olds somewhere they’ve never been before – 67 million years preparing for search and rescue beyond academic learning to back in time to the late Cretaceous Period. scenarios. develop people in all sorts of Using cutting-edge special effects and the latest discoveries in Hannah Thorpe, PE teacher, ways – improving self-confidence, palaeontology, Dinosaurs in the Wild is specially designed to ignite said: “This year, the temperatures teamwork skills, and reinforcing pupils’ imaginations and bring science to life by putting school groups were well below freezing but the the importance of perseverance. face to face with living dinosaurs. The 70-minute adventure allows pupils to ask questions as they explore their surroundings on TimeBase 67, an extraordinary research station on the Cretaceous plains. Dinosaurs in the Wild was developed with the support of more than 100 specialists and led by palaeontologist Dr Darren Naish to ensure that every detail is scientifically accurate and realistic. Over 4,500 pupils have attended Dinosaurs in the Wild in the past year, across the Birmingham and Manchester tenures. To support teachers before and after this unique experience, Dinosaurs in the Wild is also providing free curriculum-linked resources for English and Science lessons in Key Stage 2. Teachers can download these exciting activities at: https://dinosaursinthewild.com/education-resources Tim Haines, Creative Director of Dinosaurs in the Wild and award- winning producer of hit BBC TV series Walking with Dinosaurs, said: “With Dinosaurs in the Wild, we wanted to create an immersive experience that takes pupils back in time, using the latest technology to portray incredible details about the creatures and their surroundings. It will truly change your pupils’ understanding of how dinosaurs looked and ignite their passion for scientific discovery.” School group bookings enjoy a special ticket price of only £12 per pupil, as well as free tickets for accompanying teachers (one per five pupils in primary; and one per 10 pupils in secondary).

Tel: 0800 852 7244 www.dinosaursinthewild.com/education

22 Transport, Trips & Travel Hey, teachers, leave them kids alone! (Pink Floyd: Another Brick in the Wall) Debate unites young and old, teachers and students, says Michael Benjamin, Efficient new builds One of the oldest prep schools in the nurseries operating in the same Head of Public Speaking and Debate and country – St Aubyn’s School, Essex, building. Teacher of English at Ratcliffe College, founded 1884 - has embraced The first project comprises a modern architecture with two major new Dining Hall for use by the Leicestershire, as he reports on discussions new facilities. whole School, with an associated about uniform and homework. The new Gordon James Dining Hall commercial kitchen facility on the has been confirmed as the most Ground Floor and a central Staff For the audience of teachers, energy efficient new building in the Room and rehearsal/drama facilities on the First Floor. parents and Years 5 and 6 London Borough of Redbridge. students, the music of Pink Both buildings have been designed While the new Nursery, with Floyd ushered the Ratcliffe by Michael Foster AA Dipl MA RIBA an equally efficient energy College, Leicestershire, junior (a former partner of The Tooley & debaters onto the platform, performance, has enabled there Foster Partnership). They were built foreshadowing an enthusiastic to be two identical but integrated by contractor Kind & Co. discussion of student control, by Pictured: current head Len Blom with his predecessor Gordon James. teachers, at Plumtree School in Nottinghamshire. Two teams made up of Ratciffe Westonbirt is latest to College Key Stage 3 students argued the questions of ‘school extra-curricular or chores or an receive CAP Silver Award uniforms’ and ‘homework’ in older relative to visit. Come on, a pacey, political style debate. The Housekeeping Team at the mid-19th Century. Headmistress isn’t enough, enough?’ Inspired by Head Teachers, Phil Westonbirt School is celebrating Natasha Dangerfield said: “I am Simpson of Plumtree and Jon As the debate intensified, so did a coveted CAP Silver Award. It is delighted that the Housekeeping Reddin of Ratcliffe College, the the audience’s delight, producing the first school in the South West Team has been recognised for the idea was to engage the young a cutting question from Year 5 education area to achieve this work undertaken to present this with the old, encouraging Plumtree student, Sara, ‘school accolade. wonderful building. It’s paramount confidence of learning through uniforms keep you from getting CAP Awards recognise ‘unsung that the school looks its best at formal conversation and bullied. I really love mine.’ heroes’ who exhibit hard work and all times to provide a caring and argument. Cheers from the audience were dedication to provide exceptional inspirational learning environment Year 8’s Victoria Wheatley, met with a response from the environments. They are only for our pupils.” captain for the proposition, opposition’s Maisie Ashford-Clark presented to departments that After joining the CAP Continuous noting ‘dealing with bullying is quickly asserted ‘that uniforms meet the highest standards in Awards Programme in 2016, are essential as individuality can about people who are mean, it is Housekeeping and Catering, Westonbirt School achieved be achieved through personalised not about expressing individuality following a rigorous full-day Bronze level. Since then, the buttons won for achievement.’ A through your own clothes.’ inspection by independent housekeeping team has benefited Plumtree student and Ratcliffe Parents from Plumtree joined in assessors. from the programme’s 12-month Year 9 student, Oliver Hunt, with one noting that ‘control is countered offering ‘the expense Westonbirt School occupies an improvement plan, which guided the key word here. Our children of uniforms to some students is impressive Elizabethan-style the department to the Silver Award. should be encouraged to think for simply too much and that not all mansion with parts dating back to In 2018, the target is a CAP Gold! themselves and be leaders – no students are academically capable to win merit buttons – look at uniforms.’ Another parent fully America – they don’t do uniforms supported uniforms ‘when in the – and they seem to do just fine in military service, I knew that as the world!’ soon as I put on my uniform – it was time to work. Keep them.’ The question of ‘homework’ was And keep the children talking. met with fire on both sides of the aisle. Year 7’s Sam Davies With a vote of 68% to 32%, the confidently made the case ‘after audience collectively decided that 8 or 9 hours of focused school uniforms and homework must work, we then have stay! Tel: 01858 540 200 Michael Benjamin featured in January’s ISM with his top tips for setting up a debating and public speaking initiative at schools. The article is still available online at www.capaward.co.uk www.independentschoolsmagazine.co.uk/issues/2018-jan/jan-magazine.html#p=12

Independent Schools Magazine 23 ProfileIn conversation with Iain Kilpatrick

Born: 1967 You were educated in Scotland and spent in our relationships are qualities that endure. We your teaching career there before moving are interested in educating our students to think for Married: Katrina; two children Qto Sidcot. What struck you most about themselves and bring integrity and resilience to their Emma (16) and Miles (14),both the differences between a Scottish and an English lives long after they leave school. In the complex at Sidcot education when you settled south of the border? and complicated world our young people are going into these values, which stem from our Quaker My experience in Scotland was quite heritage, seem both contemporary and essential. Schools and University: varied. The first school I taught at offered The High School of Stirling, A Levels in addition to Scottish Highers. A What is the Sidcot ‘Learning Wheel’? Is The second, only offered Scottish qualifications. Stirling University (BA in it a model which could be copied by a One of the attractions of Sidcot was the choice of English), Edinburgh University school without such a firm Quaker ethos IB in addition to A Levels in the Sixth Form. I am a Q underpinning its work? (PGCE and Master in Education) greater believer that one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to education and the choice of course is First job: 1985, Royal Bank of Our curriculum is mapped to our values and fundamental to a young person having the best culture through our Learning Wheel, which Scotland, working in branches chances of success. Aensures our culture and values are central and head office departments to our teaching and learning, and are experienced in Sidcot is a Quaker school with a history every classroom, every day. First management job: stretching back to 1699. It was one of the Head of Expressive Arts, Qfirst co-ed schools in the country when The Learning Wheel shows the thinking behind what we do in and out of the classroom and how our Strathallan School, 2000 it welcomed girls in 1808. Recent independent research indicates that an education based on values inform our approach to education. We aim to Quaker values can make a real difference to develop our students academically but what’s also First job in education: equally important to us is a focus on developing Assistant Master at Strathallan student outcomes and well-being. How would you summarise those values and their benefits? students’ emotional intelligence, interpersonal teaching English in 1995 skills, their social awareness and their sense of Joining the Sidcot community has shown community. We are not here to develop experts in Appointed to current job: me how the Quaker values of equality, truth rote learning and regurgitating facts. September 2012 and respect make a quantifiable difference A These values are not exclusive to Quakers. I believe to our students’ academic outcomes and their Favourite piece of music: school experience. We have recently taken part they will resonate with those schools, like Sidcot, who are also focused on preparing students to Messiah by Handel in a research study with the University of Bristol which has validated this approach. The study, take their place in the world as global citizens. Favourite food: which involved four Quaker schools, examined These future leaders will need to be curious, open- minded and confident in examining evidence and Haggis, ‘neeps and tatties the relationship between students’ perception of our schools and their engagement with learning. making decisions based on critical reasoning. Our Learning Wheel is therefore a model for schools Favourite drink: It pinpointed the open and respectful relationship between teachers and pupils as the cornerstone to which strive for an inspirational education which Thatcher’s Gold cider or a our success. It suggested the open, respectful and is as much about nurturing the spirit as it is about nice glass of red wine supportive culture results in students who are less academic outcomes. anxious and stressed and therefore are more open Favourite holiday destination: to learning, achieving success naturally. The 600 students at Sidcot hail from Perthshire in Scotland 30 different countries, and must bring You are well-known for an approach to Qan interesting global perspective to life Favourite leisure pastime: education where school is not just about at the school and how you teach. Your recent Going to the theatre, Qpassing exams. This dovetails with the appointment of a Director of Peace and Global especially to see opera Sidcot philosophy. Was this something you always Studies won widespread headlines, but what subscribed to, or is it something which you – as a impact has this had in the classroom? non-Quaker – have come to realise more since your Favourite TV or radio Having a global perspective with a focus current appointment? programme/series: on preparing students to take their House of Cards and the Today As a non-Quaker, I have rather developed Aplace in the world as global citizens programme (Radio 4) the zeal of the convert when it comes to has long been at the heart of our approach Avalues in education. The early Quakers at Sidcot. We were very proud to cement this Suggested epitaph: were instructed to ‘answer that of God in everyone’. philosophy by being the first UK school to He had a remarkably good sense I believe that ‘God’ and ‘good’ are interchangeable appoint a Director of Peace and Global Studies terms depending on your point of view, but the basic who leads our drive to embed Peace and Global of humour for a Scotsman! principle of maintaining optimism and openness Studies throughout the curriculum.

24 Independent Schools Magazine Iain Kilpatrick has been head of Sidcot School, Somerset, since 2012. He has previously been head of Beaconhurst School, Stirling.

Our aim is to create a school filled with Peace what defines a Sidcot education. And it matters Is Brexit going to present a problem of Makers and Change Makers and Peace Education to us that our students move into the next phase teacher recruitment, and make the UK has created a learning environment which gives of their lives full of enthusiasm and cheerful Qless attractive to boarding pupils from voices to our students. It empowers them to confidence, equipped with the skills to be self- overseas? If it is, what steps can be taken to challenge, question and be curious while also reliant and resilient. mitigate? developing the essential skills of tolerance, For our Sixth Formers we have the SPICE We have a global perspective here at acceptance, empathy and understanding – the programme which looks to develop the skills Sidcot, so for us Brexit brings a new essence of great leaders in a global society. and attributes much valued in the wider world. Adimension to our strategic focus. It’s not just in the classroom where you will We particularly focus on leadership during the Fortunately UK independent schools will always experience Peace Education here at Sidcot. It is Sixth Form and the SPICE leadership course gets be in demand internationally – globally they are very much the golden thread which weaves its students thinking about teamwork, independent considered the gold standard in education. way throughout school life. We have a Centre learning, intellectual enquiry and service to However, without a doubt Brexit and its for Peace and Global Studies, a peace field with others. These are vital skills and attributes Yurt village, an innovative speaker programme employers are calling for – they need people with consequences will have an impact on both exploring contemporary global issues and an the wherewithal to think for themselves, able to student and teacher recruitment. The drop in increasingly popular annual Festival of Peace make independent decisions while still working sterling has certainly made us and other UK designed to connect with a broader audience collaboratively. independents schools more attractive financially exploring the concepts of peace and Quaker but we are battling against the uncertainty that values. Gender identity seems to be much in comes with the current political climate. the news, with certain commentators It was therefore very rewarding to be appointed Sidcot has always recruited very well from Qconcerned that it may be unhelpful – China. This special relationship has been an Ashoka Changemaker School, one of only even damaging – to young people to read too formalised recently with an agreement 15 such schools in the UK. Ashoka, through its much into what are often passing phases of to collaborate in a venture to build an network of social entrepreneurs, believes that adolescence. Some schools now opt for ‘gender- international school, inspired by the teaching anyone has the capacity to effect system change neutral’ uniform policies and modes of address. and pedagogy of our progressive school, in the given the right encouragement and nurture. How are you approaching this sensitive issue? Sichuan Province of South West China. Or is it one which you expect will drop out of the You offer the choice of studying the limelight before long? Unfortunately, we may see things become more International Baccalaureate Diploma challenging for both students and staff from I think the issues that some young people Q(IB) or A Levels in the Sixth Form. Have European countries. There could be changes to you noticed any swing from one to the other have with identity are age-old. However, they are only now being openly spoken legislation and of course we will need to consider in recent years? Do students from abroad tend A the impact of border control. Whatever the final about, which has to be a good thing. Adolescence to opt for the IB rather more than their UK- outcome, I hope Britain will continue to be a domiciled classmates? is a difficult time for some people and schools are now far more attuned to the pressures. In my welcoming, inclusive and friendly country for About 20% of our Sixth Form will study opinion, the key to supporting the individual is people to come to study and work. the IB, with the rest taking A Level. This recognising them for who they are and how they balance has remained pretty stable in present themselves in a calm, non-judgemental Who, or what, inspired you to get into A teaching? Do you still teach? the years I’ve been at Sidcot and those opting way. I think teachers are good at this but we need for IB are an eclectic group of international and to encourage parents to take a similar approach. Q UK students. What they have in common is a I was inspired, perhaps not surprisingly, shared interest in internationalism and many We have started a range of parent engagement events this year called ‘Let’s talk’, which range by an English teacher called Jim of them will go on to study abroad, if not at McGlone. He had an infectious love undergraduate level, then as post-grads. from how to support homework to teenage A mental health. The format is quite simple – a of literature and always encouraged us to question everything we read. He was quite an Aside from their studies, many of short presentation by a member of staff or anti-establishment figure around school – a bit your Sixth-Formers follow the SPICE visiting speaker followed by a chance for parents of an aging hippy – and delighted in teaching leadership course, described as ‘a to speak to each other; sharing experiences and Q controversial authors like Albert Camus and Dario exchanging tips and hints. This has been very unique programme designed in line with the Fo’s ‘Accidental Death of an Anarchist’, rather Quaker values of Stewardship, Peace, Integrity, well received by those attending and has helped than the texts prescribed by the exam board. I still Community and Equality’. What are the essentials parents feel less isolated, become better informed teach, although very little. Instead I spend a lot of of the course? How much time are students and, therefore, more able to support their time observing teaching and learning throughout expected to devote to it? children. We are introducing a gender-neutral uniform option from September to give students the school. I particularly enjoy ‘pupil shadowing’ As is the ethos throughout our entire greater choice in how they present themselves when I follow a year group timetable. Being a school, developing the whole person, and have changed the wording in our school Year 7 for a day is an extremely enlightening – Aalongside academic achievement, is policies away from using boys and girls. and exhausting – experience! Independent Schools Magazine 25 Finding the right recipe for resilience Dominic Price, Headmaster/Proprietor of Merton Court Prep, Kent, reflects on the Cross Association Junior Conference held earlier this month (March).

It was indeed a rare privilege to antipathy bordering on neglect, in their children, Dick Moore, strong pastoral care, of our pupils, chair the biennial Cross Association towards our Independent Sector, on the emotional and mental particularly in the Primary phase. Junior Conference at beautiful never, as school leaders, have health of young people, and Increasingly though, schools Combe Abbey, Warwickshire – we had the need to be more how important is that special skill and what a recipe for a great grounded and self-reflective, whilst –‘Bouncebackability’, David Boddy are having to consider how best conference we had… maintaining those vital leadership on building resilient students, to help parents with their own qualities of optimism, positivity parents and schools by helping wellbeing (as well as attending Take a strong dash of inspirational and enthusiasm. them to ‘Mind their Hearts’ and speakers and dynamic practical to pupil wellbeing), working with Nina Jackson on ‘Finding your advice to Heads and their Deputies, This conference was a unique parents to help them make sense Fizz’, using sherbert lemon –advice add an eclectic mix of delegates, opportunity for a show of real of the pressures and stress of the to help put the ‘fizz’ back into from all six Independent School unity, across our sector, and, everyday demands in their busy classrooms for teachers in need Associations (GSA, HMC, IAPS, despite the heavy snow, delegates lives. This pressure and stress, of ‘mental wealth’, the themes ISA, Society of Heads & COBIS), from a myriad of different sorts of impacts on their relationship with of Wellbeing and Resilience were stir in an excellent opportunity schools, large and small, Trust and very much to the forefront of our their children and also in turn to share stories, network to make Proprietorial, arrived to enjoy a thoughts. impacts on their relationship with new friendships and strengthen powerful gathering of like-minded their children’s school. This, then old ones and voila – a marvellous folk, seeking to become better Wellbeing has, for some time now, has an inevitable ‘knock-on’ effect medicine, to restore and recharge equipped and more confident been recognised as a key area of our professional and emotional in facing the vital challenges of proactivity, for schools, in order to on school staff and school leaders. batteries… Junior and Preparatory School ensure better learning, emotional So let’s make sure we also look Leadership. stability and personal success for At a time when our regulatory after our most valued assets – our children. inspection regime is becoming ‘Aiming for Excellence’ was the staff and our school leadership increasingly burdensome and putative title of our conference. Whilst ‘wellbeing’ is now an team, using advice, support and distracting, at a time when However, with invited speakers oft-used word, along with its laughter especially. Charitable Status is under of the calibre of Barry Hymer, on bedfellows of ‘mindfulness’ and constant, relentless challenge and Growth Mindset and on how to ‘resilience’, many of us already do Most importantly, however, let’s at a time of increasing negativity encourage parents who are keen much in our schools to ensure a make sure we, as school leaders, by Central Government, with an to nurture a growth mindset holistic approach to learning, with look after ourselves… Top national prize A Derby Grammar School student School after achieving six A* and He also plays hockey and rugby for The teenager is a member of visited the House of Lords to pick up three 9 grades in his GCSEs in 2017. Derby Grammar School and is a Christian Union and a vital link a top national prize which was open Elliot was accompanied by his member of the school’s choir and between teaching staff and the pupil to thousands of students across the body in co-ordinating the school’s parents and Carol Bramall, Head award-winning Barbershop Choir. country. charity work with the YMCA. He also of Sixth Form at Derby Grammar He plays in the school’s Swing Band plays a key role in Derby Grammar Elliot Butterworth was awarded the School. and has embarked on his Gold Duke School’s work with a school in Independent Schools Association Lesley Reynolds, Acting Head of Edinburgh Award after achieving Tanzania, helping to co-ordinate (ISA) Whitbread Memorial Prize at Derby Grammar School, Silver and Bronze. fundraising activities. 2017 by Lord Lexden, President of congratulated Elliot on his the ISA. achievement. The prize recognises and celebrates She said: “Elliot’s achievement outstanding involvement in, and is outstanding, we are so proud service to, the wider aspect of school of him. The award is also justly and community life; in conjunction deserved, he is a friendly and with achieving academic excellence engaging individual and an excellent in GCSE results. It is open to 440 role model to our younger pupils.” schools and 5,000 students across Elliot achieved a Gold award in the the country. British Physics Olympiad in 2016 Elliot, of Etwall, is studying Physics, with his mark in the examination Maths and Further Maths in the paper ranking in the top 10 of all Sixth Form at Derby Grammar entrants across the UK. Elliot with Lord Lexden and Mrs Bramall

26 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] A taste of the orient Westfield School, Tyne & Wear, Additional activities during the celebrated Chinese New Year early educational initiative included in a very unique way bringing the tastings of Chinese speciality Far East to the classrooms of its dishes such as noodles, dragon Junior House last month (February). dances with handmade puppets, Dubbed Shanghai Maths Week, and role play acting out the pupils aged between three Chinese Zodiac Story. and 11-years-old saw lessons Mr Neil Walker, headmaster, said: transformed as they experienced “Shanghai Maths Week has been a unusual teaching techniques from fantastic addition to our academic the Asian city, which regularly tops calendar, allowing our Junior international league tables for House girls to open their minds mathematics achievements. and imaginations to a new culture, From repetition of language from participating in enhanced and numbers to interactive maths lessons to engaging problem solving and whole class and exciting activities with a Sixth participation, teachers took difference”. inspiration from Shanghai to reshape maths lessons in a nod to international the upcoming Chinese occasion. Morning exercise routines formed campus part of the celebratory week too, modelled on those which many Malvern College, Worcestershire, In the meantime, this September Eastern corporations adopt helping has struck a deal with authorities will see the opening of Malvern to get creative thoughts flowing. in Chengdu, China which means College Hong Kong, following on Parents, grandparents, guardians it is now on course to open six from Malvern College Pre-School and staff were encouraged to join international schools in just seven Hong Kong which opened in 2017. in, forming a group of over 100 years, placing it at the forefront of The school also has campuses in participants in the sports hall. UK independent schools operating Qingdao, China and Cairo, Egypt. abroad. Malvern College Chengdu will MOTIVATIONAL, ASPIRATIONAL, ENCOURAGING International Trade Secretary Dr retain the values of a traditional Liam Fox witnessed the signing of Chinese education while helping YOUR CHOICE, the landmark agreement (centre ANY SIZE, pupils to adapt to a Western-style SHAPE, STYLE, back picture above) during his trade learning environment. Its vision FRAMING visit to China last month (February) is to create a pathway to English- OR COLOUR! with Prime Minister Theresa May. speaking universities around the “This is extremely exciting for world. Malvern College International Malvern College International’s and puts us right at the forefront schools in mainland China are of UK providers opening schools predominantly for Chinese internationally,” said Headmaster nationals, with around 35 per cent Antony Clark. “We are delighted of leavers going on to study at to have this opportunity to further UK universities, thus contributing expand the Malvern College family directly to the rapid international of schools through this exciting growth in the UK Higher Education development in Chengdu. sector. “We are proud of our record in providing a British-style “The success of these schools independent education with overseas has a direct positive its emphasis on the holistic impact on a wide range of UK development of pupils and a focus manufacturers and suppliers on values, whilst working closely ranging from examination boards, with our international partners to architects and engineers through to adapt the educational provision to furniture and textbook suppliers,” the needs of the local context.” said Allan Walker, Malvern College’s Director of International Schools. Goldtree Bespoke, The new campus is due to open in 9 Huffwood Manor Trading Estate, Partridge Green, West Sussex, RH13 8AU 2019 and will eventually, together Research by the International with the College’s existing campus School Consultancy has shown For further info and your questions answered: QUALITY & in Chengdu, which opened in 2015, that the appetite for Western-style, Tel: 0345 260 2350 or 01403 711553 BESPOKE provide education for more than English language-based education Email: [email protected] SERVICE 1000 children between the ages of around the world shows no signs of 3 and 18. abating. www.goldtreebespoke.co.uk

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 27 So much more than just making music… Without wishing to detract from the proud moment when a child reaches a certain level of competence and has developed the requisite skills to deliver a compelling performance, it is well-established by research that the benefits of investing in a musical education extend beyond the ability to play an instrument or entertaining an audience, says Stasio Sliwka, Director of Music at King Edward’s Witley.

“Children who play an instrument their disposal. Every new pupil on a child’s academic performance. for putting more effort into their or sing as part of an ensemble or is given the opportunity to learn The organisational, analytical, studies, they are fully embracing orchestra are required to work as an orchestral instrument with the self-discipline and listening skills the extra practices. Encouraging our part of a team. As such they are not offer of fifteen taster lessons.” which are required to achieve pupils to practise by promoting the only honing their musical skills, they success as a musician are regularly In addition to playing together, use of modern technologies, such are also further developing their applied to other areas of a child’s being part of a musical ‘team’ as the ABRSM (Associated Board of ability to perform in harmony with learning journey. According to an brings with it access to a wealth the Royal Schools of Music) apps is their fellow musicians. article in Psychology Today (March of other non-curricular activities. also helping. The school has invested 23, 2015) an October 2013 study “Of course, a further advantage We are proactive in arranging in a number of iPads to ensure found that Albert Einstein’s of being part of a team is the trips and events in this country that pupils are able access this brilliance may be linked to the fact opportunity it brings to meet people. and overseas, and this means the resource, which helps to overcome that his brain hemispheres were Very often, a shared interest in music children are often travelling together the loneliness sometimes associated extremely well-connected. The can offer an excellent vehicle to and spending significant amounts with endless playing while also article reports ‘ The ability to use forge new friendships, sometimes of time rehearsing for the regular advocating a quality rather than right brain creativity and left brain with individuals with whom a programme of concerts involving the quantity approach to practice. logic simultaneously may have child would not necessarily usually school’s talented musicians. “At a time when the mental and been part of what made Einstein socialise. This can bode well when emotional health of children is “Watching our older pupils interact an incredible genius. More and a young musician makes the move high on the public agenda, the and support the young children more studies are linking musical from school to university – joining considerable therapeutic benefits of from local preparatory schools at training with improved brain a music based society, orchestra music must not be overlooked. When our annual successful Orchestra Day function and higher academic or choir represents an excellent a child is playing an instrument, or provides another example of the achievement. Practising a musical strategy to build those all-important using their vocal talents, it provides a power of music - to overcome the instrument regularly engages all friendship groups away from home. welcome chance to break away from stereotypical age divide which can four hemispheres of your brain at an the stresses of the day and to focus “While some music instruments so often prove a barrier to children electrical, chemical and architectural on something totally different. It is lend themselves particularly well to communicating with each other level which optimises brain power.’ creating a collective sound, others during their teen years. no coincidence that music features “Venturing into the world of music might potentially be deemed as as a recognised therapy in a hospital “Social skills are not only developed can also be viewed in the context more ‘lonely’! or healing environment… in terms of building bridges with of learning a valuable life lesson, “We have put a lot of effort into “To overcome this, we make a point a pupil’s peer group. The one- in that it is very much a discipline creating a welcoming environment of inviting pianists for example, to to-one tuition which goes hand which demonstrates the importance within the music department and join an ensemble, providing our in hand with learning a musical of committing to a new skill. pianists with the same socialising / instrument also encourages it is definitely paying off. It has “You get as much out of music as team building options. Much music children to enhance their ability to been interesting to note that during you put in, which is why we have is now available for piano ensembles communicate with adults. For those examination periods, when most such a strong emphasis on the need with arrangements for up to 18 pupils who are boarding at school, pupils will experience some degree for regular practice. This year we’ve pianists on six pianos. this can represent valuable quality of anxiety, we see many of our introduced timetabled practice for time with an adult and a chance to musicians putting in extra practice “Equally, if a child elects to play our musicians which is generally experience the undivided attention as a means of escape which helps a less mainstream instrument - a slot before the official start of which children can sometimes miss them to find their inner calm. for example the viola or bassoon the school day and supervised by when separated from their regular So, it seems there is indeed truth in - in any orchestra, school or our Graduate Assistants. After the home life. Plato’s saying… otherwise, there is likely to be initial anticipated general lukewarm less competition to gain a place “Beyond the social skills associated reception to this initiative we are ‘Music is a moral law. It gives soul so we encourage children to with learning a musical instrument now seeing 95% of our pupils really to the universe, wings to the mind, take advantage of the extensive there are other well documented benefitting and because the children flight to the imagination, and charm choice of musical instruments at benefits which are proven to impact are able to witness the rewards and gaiety to life and to everything’.

28 Music, Dance & Drama Choirs united One of the events in the Durham The joint choir numbered more Vocal Festival featured The than 70 voices and performed Chapel Choir from Barnard Castle under the direction of Barnard School, County Durham, which Castle School’s director of music joined the choir of Cundall Simon Dearsley and organist Dr Manor School, North Yorkshire, Robin Harrison. to sing choral evensong at The festival event continues Durham Cathedral. the busy recital schedule of the Chapel Choir of Barnard Castle The choirs performed before School, which has seen them a host of invited guests, and performing extensively in venues dignitaries including the Lord- throughout Teesdale, County Lieutenant of County Durham Durham and North Yorkshire. Sue Snowdon, Wing Commander The 40 strong choir has also Josh Fortune of RAF Leeming, travelled to cathedrals as far Mayor of Durham Cllr Bill afield as London while also Kellett, the mayor’s consort Jean 1001 nights singing regularly within the Chaplow and Mayor of Barnard school’s own chapel. Bromsgrove Preparatory School experience. We set out to fill this Castle Coun Sandra Moorhouse. Barnard Castle School has staged its first production on new space with life and stories, headmaster Tony Jackson said: the stage of the School’s brand a task that we have achieved. “The Chapel Choir of Barnard new Cobham Theatre. The young performers delighted Castle School was delighted to The Tales from The Thousand audiences each time they took be singing choral evensong at and One Nights is a selection to the stage, without exception. Durham Cathedral once again of stories that range from the It is extremely heartening to see this year. The Durham Vocal profound to the comic. young people grasp the challenge Festival celebrates the finest Charlie Woollhead, Head of of storytelling of this nature and vocal music with singers from Drama said “It was a really joyous come away successful”. just around the corner, across the country and overseas and it is a wonderful opportunity for us to join together with Cundall Manor School choir to display the incredible talent that we have within our schools.”

Pictured: Barnard Castle School chorister Matthew Forster, 14, of Manfield, near Richmond Festival of music For all your music education & performance equipment

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Music, Dance & Drama 29 independent schools mag Ad 90x135mm MAY11.indd 1 6/5/11 13:08:41 World-class piano As part of Bromsgrove School’s the Honourable Christopher ongoing commitment to the Lyttelton, 12th Viscount Cobham. Performing Arts, the School has Professor Lloyd Webber and taken receipt of a state-of-the-art the Conservatoire are closely concert grand piano. involved with The Bromsgrove International Young Musicians’ Handcrafted in Austria, the Competition, hosted annually at Bösendorfer 280 VC grand Bromsgrove School. Vienna Concert piano features sophisticated VC technology and The Bosendorfer 280VC has only Theatre workshop an independent Capo d’Astro for been in production since last year Thirty-seven members of Exeter where you make a sound while perfect adjustment in the descant and is one of under 100 similar Junior School’s Drama Club took registry. models worldwide. pretending to hit your opponent. part in a workshop run by ‘The They also studied physical The concert grand piano will Director of Music, James Four of Swords’ Theatre Company. movement and projecting their grace the stage of Routh Concert McKelvey said “We are thrilled to Former pupil and professional voices. Hall, part of Bromsgrove’s new have such a world-class piano at actor Phil Symes returned to Performing Arts Centre which was Bromsgrove. It will surely enhance English and Drama Coordinator school together with business officially opened in November the playing of our talented Rita Pettet said the children had a partner Sarah White and Rhodri 2017 by Professor Julian Lloyd young musicians and in turn, wonderful morning: “Comments Cooper to work with the children Webber, Principal of the Royal the audience’s experience of our from the children included ‘It on techniques to stage the fight Birmingham Conservatoire and concerts. really helped us with our stage scene at the beginning of ‘Romeo presence’, ‘Learning how to and Juliet’. portray a fight was really fun, ‘We The group were preparing to had to build trust between each perform an edited version of the other so that we could perform play. the fight scene’ and ‘It helped In the Drama Studio, the children with our understanding of the studied ‘napping’, a technique scene in the play’,” she said. Professional jazz musicians inspire

Musicians at St Benedict’s School, Thomas, resulting in a superb London, performed alongside evening of entertainment. professional musicians in a highly Pictured (l-r): James McKelvey – Director of Music; David Halford – supplier Coach House Pianos; The Senior and Junior Jazz Peter Clague – Headmaster; Rupert Lane – Governor successful Jazz Soirée, following a ensembles and Big Band series of jazz workshops. performed popular jazz standards World class drummer Sam Blue, such as Summertime, Ellington Youngsters who has performed with Corinne classic Take the A Train and Miles Bailey Rae, Professor Green, Davis’ All Blue. The Jazz Choir, Plan B, Paloma Faith and Tom accompanied by double bass and making music Jones, joined the school’s jazz guitar, sang Don’t worry, be happy, Last month (February) pupils from their progression in Music from ensembles, along with Marcel and Leonard Cohen’s Alleluia, with Pusey from Bassistry Music on confident improvisations from Winterfold School, Worcestershire, the Early Years. There were star bass guitar and jazz singer Megan several singers. held their first Music Makers’ performances by select Prep Concert – an opportunity for all pupils, the Girls’ Harmony Choir children in Pre-Prep to showcase and The Groove Diggers to their musical talents. help with the younger pupils’ aspirations to grow as musicians A packed Penryn Hall audience and continue their musical was treated to the delights of Do journey. Your Ears Hang Low and We Can Denise Toms, Headmistress said Play on the Big Bass Drum by “These children are some of the Kindergarten 2 and Reception youngest children at Winterfold. children. They displayed a huge amount of Year 1 and 2 children performed talent and it shows there is great El Cumbanchero and The Magic potential for the future of Music Travel Machine, demonstrating at the School”. Pictured: Some of St Benedict’s jazz musicians, with visiting professionals

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/harlequinfloors @HarlequinFloors www.harlequinfloors.com Playing a musical instrument helps boost academic results Many studies have shown that more aware that learning requires music education can influence time and effort – but crucially that the course of brain development the time and effort pay off. This and have an effect on children’s then has a positive impact on their abilities in non-musical school work. tasks such as language and In contrast, children who took mathematical skills. fewer music lessons or did not New research, led by Daniel learn music at all were inclined Müllensiefen, a music to have a more defeatist attitude, Pupils look on the psychologist at Goldsmiths not believing they were capable (University of London), aims of performing – and as a result, bright side of life to uncover the social and made slower academic progress. psychological processes that Pupils from Sibford School, Oxfordshire, looked on the bright side Learning to play a musical result in those effects. Beginning of life for their 2018 school production ... and performed the Monty instrument gives an immense in 2015 and initially centered on Python hit musical ‘Spamalot’. sense of achievement that helps Queen Anne’s School, Berkshire, children and adults accomplish A riotous comedy full of misfit knights, killer rabbits, musical monks the project now includes schools more in other areas of life. and ferocious Frenchmen, the Sibford production played to delighted from other parts of Britain as audiences over three nights. well as schools in Germany. Key findings include: Director and Head of Drama, Neil Madden, said: “The cast worked As well as musical ability and Music helps you connect. Music their socks off, giving up their evenings and weekends to put on a academic results, the team can improve your social life and very professional production. I was extremely impressed with how sought to measure other traits children who become involved easily the pupils entered the world of Monty Python and it was a and abilities in students, such in a musical group or orchestra joy to witness their confidence soar with each performance. It is as intelligence, personality, their learn important life skills such as humbling to work with such talented children”. sense of school belonging and how to relate to others, how to their view of their own personal work as a team, leadership skills strength and capabilities. and discipline. Researchers went back to the Spectacular Choosing to take music lessons school each year and the same can help build confidence. Once students sat 20 tests and ballet production you are aware that you are able questionnaires, including three Just as Imperial Vienna is the elegant home of the waltz, so fin de to do something well – such as musical listening tests, an IQ test siècle Paris conjures up visions of the dancers and cafés so memorably playing the piano – you naturally and a personality test. captured by the French impressionists. In their Farlington School, become more confident of your Sussex, production of Gaité Parisienne the de Braam Ballet Academy Almost 180 girls aged 11 to skills and of your ability to transported packed audiences to the raffish streets and studios of 17 sat the tests, which were acquire new ones. then compared with their Montmartre, providing romance, exuberance and vitality in spectacular Daily practice helps a musician academic results and whether fashion. Natalie van de Braam’s direction and original choreography learn how to play. Years of they viewed their abilities as enabled the talented troupe of 45 dancers to showcase awesome regular practice and daily musical innate or changeable. The study balletic skills – not least some exhilarating double pirouettes – as well exercises are necessary to reach found evidence to suggest that as superb ensemble co-ordination and empathy. a level to master difficult pieces; different aspects of capability this daily routine helps teach and personality were inseparably patience and discipline. linked – from musical ability, to conscientiousness, to academic Learning to play a musical performance. instrument makes you use both parts of your brain and this in The research suggests that music turn boosts memory power and lessons help boost academic results stimulates your creativity. by convincing children of their own intelligence and their natural Last but not least, learning to ability to learn and acquire new play a musical instrument is FUN! skills. As a result, teenagers who Music lifts the spirit and simply are high achievers in music are makes life more enjoyable.

This year’s Learn to Play weekend (17-18 March) sees the Yamaha flagship music store in Wardour Street, London give hundreds of free taster music lessons, as do many other venues up and down the country. www.wherecanwego.com to find venues near you www.musicforall.org.uk/learntoplayday for more details

32 Music, Dance & Drama BRINGING THE MAGIC OF THEATRE TO YOU

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CLASSIC LITERATURE PANTOMIMES Our Classic Literature Adaptations are aimed at Colourful, musical and packed full of fun, adventure encouraging children to read for enjoyment, by and special effects, our pantomimes will have the bringing books to life, in particular classic fiction by whole audience cheering, booing and clapping along! long established children’s authors. “The performance was fantastic and the children were “The children in the class were engrossed and wanted to thoroughly immersed in the magic of theatre” read the story because of the show”

0800 028 1821 [email protected] www.magicoftheatre.com Tutoring ‘complementary BTEC courses alongside to classroom education’ A-levels Ampleforth College, Yorkshire, John Hutchison looks at how has announced the introduction of BTECs in Countryside the activities and influence of Management, Enterprise and Entrepreneurship and Hospitality, The Tutors’ Association seek to supporting its ambition to provide a holistic education for its pupils. maintain the highest levels of Countryside Management will standards in an unregulated yet explore the legal and practical side of managing an estate and builds ever-growing sector. on Ampleforth’s already thriving gamekeeping activities, while The Tutors’ Association (TTA) the teaching. Tutors share a Tutoring is a profession that Enterprise and Entrepreneurship will give students the skills they was set up, first and foremost, passion for helping children employs hundreds of thousands need to feel confident in running to create a community for to learn – the core skill that is of people as tutors and one their own business. Hospitality members of the tutoring needed long after school years that, consequently, touches will focus on event management profession. TTA exists to provide are left behind. They actively and potentially transforms the as well as the importance of them with support in six areas: seek to engage with schools and lives of millions of children the hospitality industry for the teachers and to work with them 1. Recognition – of a and adults as students. As economy. to help children achieve their commitment to behaving one of the oldest tutoring full potential. Students can choose to study ethically and professionally agencies in the world and only BTECs, or to follow a TTA held its second Annual 2. Development – opportunities a founding member of the mixed pathway of one or two Conference recently at which to learn and acquire new skills Association, we believe that with BTECs alongside one or two A some 200 tutors and agencies, Levels. The courses will be led (or hone existing ones) this level of influence comes including Gabbitas Education, responsibility. Membership of by Harriet Thompson, Assistant 3. Collaboration – opportunities gathered to listen to an array of TTA is a significant reassurance Head Academic Development, to exchange knowledge and speakers on a range of topics who joined Ampleforth late last to parents that a tutor or an experience that reflected the diversity of year and reports into Director of agency takes that responsibility 4. Resources – access to the tutoring and supplementary Studies Hannah Pomroy. seriously, and we require all information and resources education sector. Speakers our tutors to have successfully that assist with all aspects of ranged from Mary Curnock Cook, passed a DBS check and to sign New girls’ house tutoring who talked of the role that she Milton Abbey School, Dorset, will up to a code of ethical conduct. 5. Engagement – helping believes tutoring has to play in open its second girls’ day and the wider educational landscape, to shape the future of the When asked about the boarding House in September 2018 to Mursal Hedayat who shared profession ambitions of the Association, in response to the high demand for the story of her journey from girls’ places at the school. 6. Reputation – creating a its President Adam Muckle refugee to founder of an stated, “It is our aim to be Mrs Emma Williams (pictured voice for the profession and organisation that employs fellow- a standard-bearer for good below) has been announced as building bridges refugees as tutors to address practice, and to demonstrate the Housemistress for the new The sixth of these is particularly language gaps. Delegates also girls’ House, Damer House. Emma the highest standards of self- important in relation to had the chance to break up into currently teaches French and regulation. As part of this, we schools. TTA sees tutoring as groups and attend their choice of Spanish at Milton Abbey, helps with have also developed a tutoring complementary to classroom nine seminar topics on a range the School’s Duke of Edinburgh qualification in collaboration education and not as some of subjects from understanding Award Scheme and is an Assistant with the University of Worcester Housemistress. She has a First Class kind of superior alternative. SEND and Generation Z, to the that is starting to attract Honours degree from Newcastle There are things that classroom role of neuroscience in learning and practical advice on making significant numbers of would-be University in French Studies and a teaching can achieve in terms PGCE in Modern Foreign Languages lessons more interesting. tutors. In addition to developing of teamwork and social learning at the University of Buckingham. varied tutoring skills, the skills that tutoring cannot The conference represents a provide, and equally there microcosm of the activities TTA diploma pays special attention are things that one-to-one undertakes in support of its to understanding appropriate tuition can provide that cannot other objectives of providing safeguarding practices and be replicated in classroom development, engagement, how safeguarding, tutoring teaching – no matter how collaboration and reputational and learning relate to effective small the class or how excellent advancements for the profession. tutoring relationships.” John Hutchison is Chief Officer and Director of Tutoring at Gabbitas Education [email protected] www,gabbitas.com www.thetutorsassociation.org.uk

34 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] How to help your students win places at an American university Katharine Harrington, VP of Admissions and Planning at the University of Southern California discusses the different opportunities on offer and some key points to remember about applications.

Economic globalisation continues to spread worldwide and looks to There are a few tips my team and I typically share with be a reality future generations will teachers and school advisers who are guiding students embrace and expand upon. The through the application process: implication for secondary school age • Ensure students carefully research the university they are applying students considering their futures is for; each US university has unique attributes and it is important a simple one: do whatever you can to train for a global career. to showcase to each college what it is that makes them uniquely attractive from the student’s perspective – and vice versa. For some, this can mean studying • Qualitative portions of the application (i.e. personal statements) a foreign language or taking a semester abroad. Others still will should focus as much on the person as on grades and extracurricular prefer to explore the opportunities activities; US universities will be looking for both. that universities outside of their own universities are not solely looking for • Ensure the application shows broad interests, as students will be countries can offer. students who have perfect grades expected to take on a variety of subjects outside of their majors. and a plethora of extracurricular The US continues to be an attractive interests; they are also interested • Teacher recommendations, while academic in nature, should also destination, given the many quality in students who have something provide insight into the student, and those special qualities that options available across the country unique to offer. make them a good fit with the university they are applying for. as well as the lack of language barriers for students coming from Compared to the UK, many English-speaking countries. American universities employ a more ‘subjective’ selection process. What US universities offer something this means in practice is that schools else as well, especially for students will often look beyond grades originating in the UK: a very and achievements (though those different educational model that remain important) and examine the focuses not just on depth – but whole person. With each college a also breadth - over a four- student applies to, there is plenty of OUR PAST ... YOUR FUTURE year undergraduate degree. US opportunity to let their personality universities require students to shine through. USC, in particular, take a variety of subjects beyond looks for ambitious and talented School Consultancy those connected to their majors, as individuals who bring enthusiasm opposed to the linear model more and energy; they want students typical in the UK. At a university like whose first choice is USC. We are Recruitment the University of Southern California looking for candidates that want to (USC), almost as many minors are be a part of the university and will offered as majors. Students therefore be successful once they arrive here. Professional Development have the opportunity to explore This requires an exploration of not broadly across several fields of only academics but character. knowledge. This broad foundation Entry Testing of knowledge allows students to Finances are another important consideration. It’s no secret that US bring “multiple ways of knowing” to Student Support & Guardianship the challenges that await them after universities are more expensive than university. universities in the UK and typically, do not offer needs-based financial For US universities, the application aid to international students. process differs greatly, so it can be However merit-based scholarships difficult for students, parents and and athletic scholarships are teachers to know what admissions available at USC and other colleges, counsellors are looking for. The best so it is certainly worthwhile to advice for students: be authentic. explore this in more detail ahead of www.gabbitas.com Contrary to popular belief, applying. +44 (0) 20 7734 0161 | [email protected]

Katharine Harrington, VP of Admissions and Planning at the University of Southern Gabbitas Educational Consultants is registered in England No. 2920466. Part of e Prospects Group. California. USC opened a new international office in central London last month (February). It is USC’s ninth international satellite office and will act as the University’s headquarters for the UK and Europe and will work to attract top talent from the UK and across the continent.

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 35 Flexibility key to meshing pastoral & academic aspects with sports development Sporting high-achievers & their education needs There are many schools who are in the privileged position of educating high- performance athletes. These incredibly focused and dedicated young people are an asset to our schools, not least through their chosen sporting path, but also because surrounding other pupils by these individuals raises the levels of aspiration and expectation, thus creating an even higher performing environment. But what can be done practically in our schools to support such pupils academically in the classroom, and in their chosen sport to ensure that they are emotionally and mentally ready for the world when they leave school? Jo Hayward, Deputy Head at Devon’s Plymouth College (pictured right), reflects... This will depend on whether sports staff, allow for an open forum Specialist tutor groups allow the led to a further improvement in schools have their own integrated for staff to discuss individual pupils, flexibility of pupils being registered the approach in other areas of high performance programme to share their successes but also to whilst eating breakfast, meaning not the school. A year-round cricket or whether they are supporting highlight concern. Boarding staff only do they get dedicated pastoral mentoring programme set up by fewer individuals, but a lot of the attend weekly meetings with the time with their tutor, but can also Plymouth College’s Head of Cricket, strategies that we use work in swimming team for example, with train, eat a breakfast which meets Matt Byrne, works with cricket both scenarios - from swimmers, all coaches, house-parents, and the their nutritional needs and attend scholars to look at a variety of pentathletes, fencers and divers school nurse present. This allows lessons on time. Pupils are able topics including time management, on our integrated programmes, staff to put all information together to rest in the Health Centre when strength and conditioning, goal- to supporting pupils representing in a way that enables us to ‘join the required and there are multiple setting and nutrition. As Matt says, their country in sports such as table dots’ and to look for patterns of opportunities to complete prep “The year-round cricket programme tennis and ski-ing, as well as those behaviour and potential burnout. around the numerous training times. supports cricket scholars and playing traditional team sports. It is It also ensures that the athletes are However, workable timetables for keen, committed boys and girls easy to forget that these incredibly receiving a consistent and supportive pupils are only feasible with an who wish to develop their skills, talented young people are often, message from all parties. No one incredibly flexible and understanding not only in the three key areas of at times, leading the lives of young part of the pupils’ lives works in staff. There is a general the game - technical, tactical and adults, away from home, often isolation, therefore ensuring that acknowledgement amongst all staff physical - but also to explore the independently, and we must help that practices are shared and that of how much pupils need to juggle mental side of the game. The them be as prepared as possible for the athlete is supported in the best day-to-day. This, combined with programme provides 1 to 1 and the pressures they will face. As Tom possible way”. academic staff who are responsive if group coaching throughout the Daley, Olympic medallist and World In terms of practicalities, as a school, academic year. All members of the Champion, who came back to his they are aware that an athlete has we have chosen to be flexible with been away competing or training programme also have a focus on former school earlier this year said our timetable. As Phil Mutlow, their academic performance, which to the pupils, “The years you spend during regular lesson time, by giving Director of Sport states, ‘Our pupils longer to complete work, is closely monitored through weekly here at Plymouth College are really flexibility with regards to games mentor sessions with the Head of going to make a massive impact on providing extra lessons or revision periods enables high performance sessions, being pro-active in the run Cricket, who works in conjunction what is to come in the future. The athletes to either train during school with the students’ form tutor and lessons in life I learnt here, not just up to an event by providing work time or to study in this time, thus in advance (and always avoiding Head of Year. This balance between school lessons, have helped me so freeing up further time elsewhere.’ a focus on cricket-specific activities much in my career in diving and next day homework), and by being In addition, some training schedules available on email, helps reduce and academic responsibilities is outside of diving.” are not as flexible and occasionally overall stress. As James Watson, encouraged through the promotion A large part of the success athletes can only train when their the school’s Boys’ Swimming of a growth mind-set from both the of any programme lies in the facilities are available, as happens Captain explains, “Plymouth College individual and the collective group.” communication and close working with our high performance divers individually works with pupils to It is this focus on the whole pupil, relationship between all parties who can only train at certain times construct training times which rather than simply ‘athletes’, that has working with the athletes. As Nicola of the day. With communication are integrated with an equally as helped Plymouth College develop Byrne, Head of Girls’ Boarding, in and negotiation with their coach, important academic timetable. its young people into successful, a boarding school which is sending pupils and staff work together to Being a swimmer, I sometimes have confident and mature young adults four pupils to the Commonwealth create a workable timetable, yet to miss days of school to attend who perform to the best of their Games later this year in Australia still maintain high expectations swimming competitions. However, ability, both inside and outside the says, “The maintenance of open and and standards of students. With my education does not suffer as I classroom. regular communication between the agreement of the Head of Year, can speak to teachers who are more coaches, academic and boarding pupils can, where necessary, study Whatever path these talented than willing to hand out information staff, medical staff, parents and fewer subjects to allow them time young people choose to follow, the sheets and even arrange extra study athletes is crucial. This allows the in the day to solidify their learning array of skills, strategies, leadership sessions during breaks and lunch school to identify any early issues on fewer subjects. The boarding experience and qualifications that before they become in any way routine and school day is tailored times to accommodate for this lost they have gained whilst at school detrimental. At Plymouth College, around the various timetables. There lesson time.” puts them in an enviable position as bi-weekly staff briefings, which are double sittings for breakfast Acknowledgement of the needs they embark on their future careers includes academic, boarding and and a flexible supper timetable. of high performance athletes has in the sporting arena and beyond.

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6135 Schoolblazer Print Advertising 2017.indd 3 29/09/2017 15:40 Rubber crumb artificial pitch infill causing concerns among parents Keeping children safe is the number one concern for both parents and schools. Yet, while years of experience has taught us what measures need to be put in place to ensure safety – new concerns and worries crop up all the time.

The past few years has seen children using an artificial pitch are reluctant to allow their children increasing coverage about the use made with rubber crumb is to use the facilities. of rubber crumb, an ingredient dominating local news headlines which forms part of many artificial at the moment. In Nile Valley Future-proofing your sports pitches, used throughout the District, a large recreation centre investment country in schools, leisure facilities opened towards the end of 2017 It’s clear that these concerns are and public playgrounds. and included an artificial turf field not going to go away, and when Most types of crumb rubber with crumb rubber infill. parents do speak out – as has been seen in Chicago – significant media are made from recycled tyres Since the installation, a number focus is placed upon the decision and other materials which emit of parents have raised concerns made to install an artificial pitch chemicals called polycyclic aromatic that the turf infill is made from which uses rubber crumb. hydrocarbons (PAHs). These are recycled tyres and, as such, are known carcinogenic chemicals and refusing to allow their children What’s frustrating to many parents the concern for many is that the to use the pitch. The story has who voice their concerns is that PAHs can be transferred onto the been picked up by a leading there are alternatives available. UK- children using these sports pitches. media organisation and across based business Murfitts Industries, Critically, tests carried out have social media, resulting in a PR a leading supplier of artificial pitch never been able to give a conclusive nightmare for those who made infill, launched a revolutionary new answer to the concern that these the decision to install the pitch. type of infill at the end of 2017. chemicals can be absorbed through PRO-gran is a Polymeric Infill that the skin through abrasions or being The concerns in Chicago echo is engineered to offer the very best inhaled or ingested, which can worries already raised here in the in performance while being safe happen when the turf is disturbed. UK and across the world. Public for players and the environment. feeling suggests that the tests The infill combines the exceptional The strength which have been done have never dynamic properties of rubber but of public feeling conclusively proven that these is then coated in polyurethane In Chicago in the United States, artificial pitches are safe, and in order to make it 100% safe, concerns about the safety of understandably that means parents releasing no PAHs. of their child when they play on It’s been through a rigorous testing an artificial pitch. Although the programme and exceeds the EU’s consensus of the studies about toughest standards that are applied rubber crumb is that it causes no to toxicology and toy safety. This significant risk to health or the means that PRO-gran is one of the environment, worries remain. After few products which can boast it a year of research and development is 100% safe for people and the we’re pleased to offer a product environment. that not only eliminates any PRO-gran gives an unbeatable concern about player or public playing experience and is much health, but also creates a more longer lasting that alternative enjoyable playing experience.” infills – tests show that it will For any school looking to install remain in perfect condition for an artificial pitch, PRO-gran helps over 12 years, well beyond the to eliminate the risk of negative lifetime of a typical pitch. feedback from parents and also Murfitts Industries owner Mark stands the test of time, protecting Murfitt said: “No parent should children and the pitch for years To find out more about PRO-gran please visit www.murfittsindustries.com have to worry about the health to come.

38 Sport & Sportswear

Consecutive Triumphs Ballard School, Hampshire, is celebrating a trio of sporting successes as their U13 girls team have won consecutive hockey, football and, most recently, netball tournaments. In a tournament involving six other schools: Walhampton, Stroud, Castle Court, Twyford, BCS, West Hill Park and the Ballard B team they won all of their group matches. Ballard then progressed Ballard’s Director of Sport, to the semi-finals where they met Justin Whitbread said: “This BCS and won 5-2. This set up the shows the dedication the girls Annabel Tri’s for the top final with champions Twyford, a have put into breakfast training, school renowned for its netball. improving their fitness and skills Bishop’s Stortford College Hertfordshire Young Sports in PE lessons and by working Sixth Former Annabel Hunt is a Performer of the year 2017 and In the final, Ballard got off to a in partnership with Lymington triathlon star of the future. The Walden Jnr 1st place girl (Club strong start and were 5-2 up at half time. Twyford fought back Netball club. We are delighted seventeen-year-old from Bishop’s Championships) 2014, 2015, hard and pushed Ballard back to with the progress of Netball Stortford is setting her sights 2016 and 2017. She has also 5-5. In the end it was a great piece at Ballard School and to win on at least a top 10 placing in recently qualified for the 2018 of play by Ballard that led to a against such strong competition the Fyn ITU Aquathlon World Fyn ITU Cross Triathlon World well-deserved 6-5 win. is a credit to the girls.” Championships (U20s GB Team) Championships and the 2018 Etna and top 5 the Fyn ITU Aqua Bike ETU Winter Triathlon European World Championships (U20s GB Championships, however could not Greg joins wheelchair Team). She hopes to one day fulfil compete. her dream of becoming an elite When asked how she manages triathlete. tennis elites her training schedule and A Level Cranleigh School, Surrey, pupil players in the UK. It aims to help Her recent achievements include studies, Annabel commented, Greg Slade, recently crowned the gifted juniors progress to the first 9th place Aquathlon European “One of the reasons I joined the UK’s National Wheelchair Tennis level of the Tennis Foundation’s Championships 2017 (U20’s GB College was for their Elite Sports Champion, has been selected to World Class Wheelchair Tennis Team), age group win in AJ Bell Programme which supports my be part of a world-leading new Performance Programme – which London Triathlon Super sprint training schedule and my studies programme. Designed by Great boasts the likes of Wimbledon 2017, Highly Commended East with a balanced timetable.” Britain’s leading tennis charity, Doubles Champions Gordon Reid the Tennis Foundation, the new and Alfie Hewett at its pinnacle. development programme will help The JFP programme comprises six Swimmers success Greg and six others to progress two-day training camps, covering towards future international everything from coaching and in the Olympic Pool success. performance to elite sport The launch of the new Wheelchair education. Six children from The Gower Tennis Junior Futures Potential The new initiative is considered to School, London, competed in a (JFP) Programme will play a be at the cutting edge of junior national swimming competition at key role in the development of wheelchair sport development the Olympic Pool in east London talented, young wheelchair tennis programmes across the world. After winning gold medals in the north London regional heats, The Gower School children were selected to swim in the Independent Schools Association’s National Swimming Gala at the London Aquatics Centre. Sports Captain Cy Sherliker, 11, said: “This year we had a record won the bronze medal in the Year number of The Gower School Six boys backstroke event, Vita children representing London Braden, 9, won the bronze medal North region in the competition. in the Year Four girls freestyle They all put in an immense effort event, and Head Girl Echo Braden, in the competition and some of 11, won a silver medal in the Year them made new personal bests Six girls 4x50m freestyle relay. on the day. We are very proud of Miss Emma Gowers, Principal, them indeed.”

40 Sport & Sportswear Technical Surfaces: putting best practice at the centre of synthetic pitch maintenance Technical Surfaces is the UK’s largest and leading provider of maintenance to all types of synthetic sports surface, from 3G pitches to tarmac tennis courts, cricket wickets to athletics facilities. Our motto is Maintaining Standards, and we work continually alongside and we apply this to every service their research team in Germany we provide, ensuring that pitches to develop new and improved can be enjoyed at their best and techniques and equipment. safest. We work closely with leading Technical Surfaces has always been installers, testing laboratories and at the forefront of our industry, manufacturers of carpets and infills spearheading initiatives to help to deliver quality sports facilities improve industry knowledge and with consistent performance levels. best practice in synthetic surface Our unique contribution to the maintenance. industry can be defined by two key Our commitment to research is Greg joins wheelchair qualities: legacy and innovation. well-established and sets Technical Technical Surfaces has operated Surfaces apart as the UK’s leading tennis elites nationwide for over 20 years, maintenance provider. We have with services ranging from regular been involved in several academic warranty protection. In particular, for the level of use a pitch is maintenance to deep cleans, repairs studies and research projects it is stipulated that the growing receiving. If any changes are and full pitch refurbishment. focussing on developing guidelines number of 3G pitches being installed required, we work with all parties Our client base spans the length for maintaining synthetic turf; as part of the FA, RFU and Football involved to adjust the maintenance and breadth of the country and the effects of brushing on the Foundation’s Framework Contract programme accordingly. includes schools, leisure centres, wear rates of synthetic carpet be maintained to an appropriate local authorities, sports clubs and systems; and enhancing industry Our work on the development of standard to comply with Quality universities. understanding and awareness of a 3G Hybrid® system represents Control and warranty requirements, the efficacy of current sports pitch another important industry Whatever type of surface you play and undergo frequent testing to maintenance techniques. contribution. Derived from our on – 3G, sand-based, water-based ensure they remain fit for purpose. – pitch performance is paramount. The research partnership patented Rejeneration®, the With this shift in attitude comes a Therefore, it is important that the between Technical Surfaces and 3G Hybrid® system involves correct approach to maintenance is Loughborough University has earned greater emphasis on best practice, removing the sand infill from the taken for every carpet system. recognition from the Journal of ensuring that the individual carpet pile and replacing it with requirements and circumstances of a specialist grade mix of new To achieve the maximum life from a Sports Engineering and Technology, each sports surface are considered rubber granules. For the end user, synthetic sports surface it is essential and our current KTP collaboration when implementing a maintenance this is an exciting development; that the correct maintenance regime with their Sports Surface Research programme. transforming the old, tired sand- is implemented as soon as possible Group continues our efforts to filled pitch at their local school from installation. It will also be improve and progress the way OTIS was developed primarily necessary to carry out non-routine that our industry approaches the to meet this changing need or sports centre into an attractive works to prolong the life of a maintenance of synthetic surfaces. of our customers, and of the prospect for a kick-about or facility and ensure a safe playing In 2018 Technical Surfaces will industry as a whole. Logging both league match. And for pitch environment for users. celebrate 7 years since the launch maintenance and usage is critical owners/operators, the chance to to ensuring the longevity of a increase revenue and minimise As well as providing a specialist of our pioneering Online Technical synthetic sports surface. Without disruption and downtime is maintenance service, Technical Information System. Commonly accurately recording both aspects equally appealing, with the Surfaces also supplies machinery known as OTIS, the software was it is impossible to ensure that your improved playing performance and equipment to help customers unveiled to our contract customers surface is being cared for properly. and drainage capabilities of the perform their own maintenance in April 2011, allowing them to tasks. Machinery is available to meet manage the maintenance, usage, Technical Surfaces continually 3G Hybrid® system. every level of in-house expertise health & safety and day-to-day monitors the condition of every To learn more about Technical and resources, with certificated administration of their facilities playing surface we maintain, Surfaces, our latest news and the training and demonstrations on online. and through OTIS encourage maintenance services we provide, all machines supplied. Technical Increasingly, owners and operators our customers to do the same. please visit our website at www.technicalsurfaces.co.uk Surfaces is proud to be the sole of 3G pitches find they are required Monitoring pitch activity and UK Distributor of the SMG range not only to maintain the surface, maintenance helps to determine of dedicated synthetic sports but also to record both maintenance whether the maintenance surface maintenance machinery, and usage for the purposes of programme in place is suitable

Sport & Sportswear 41 Legends at sporting dinner “Be the best you can be, whatever best you can be at that.” you enjoy” - that was the message Moody agreed and concluded with from Rio 2016 gold medal-winning a message to the students: “The hockey captain, Kate Richardson- reason we all started and the reason Walsh, five-time Olympian and we succeeded is because we did World champion swimmer, Mark something we enjoyed. Too often Foster, and former England rugby today kids are pushed in various skipper, Lewis Moody, as Trent different directions. If you enjoy College hosted a ‘Night of Legends’ something, and want to commit to charity Sporting Dinner. it, you’re going to want to give it Compered by sports broadcaster, Jill your all and be the best at it. Douglas, the celebrated trio offered words of advice, which helped them “I wish you guys all the luck in Budding Lewis Hamiltons? achieve at the very top of their the world, because you’ve got sports, captivating more than 200 such bright futures ahead of you. The Karting Team from Bancroft’s year of competing, they reached Whether it’s sport or academic, School, Essex, have safely secured the National Finals, where they pupils and guests gathered for the annual dinner. whatever it is you go on to do, their slot in the London and finished a respectable 15th. Trent College is a wonderful place South East Regional Finals of They are hopeful of repeating Earlier in the day, Richardson- to start that journey. I’m sure the this year’s British Schools’ Karting the achievement of reaching Walsh, who was made an OBE after teachers you have are very proud Championships. the Nationals’ again this year, Team GB’s Rio success, checked out of all of you. It’s a pleasure being the next generation in action as On 7 February, the Woodford but believe they are capable of here, thank you.” some 40 young pupils from Trent doing better, Amir and teacher Green School took 4 teams, each College and its junior school, The All proceeds from this year’s dinner James Foley both maintain that of 3 drivers, to Teamsport Acton Elms, took part in a hockey training went to Trent College’s Kenyan for the Regional Qualifiers. Twenty Bancroft’s have their strongest session. Schools Partnership and the Trent four pupils had originally tried team ever this year. Amir said, “At College Foundation. The event was With Trent College’s own girls’ out for the team, and this was the practice session, the top nine sponsored by Land Rover, along teams excelling in both the narrowed down to the final twelve Bancroft’s racers all finished within with partners Wrights specialist National outdoor and indoor through trials at Brentwood. The ½ a second of each other – a clear roofing contractors, Skills Group, finals over the past 12 months, a top two teams from the Qualifiers DFS and Thorntons. demonstration of our strength. I group of female students then got would proceed to the Regional am thrilled to have qualified for the chance to meet and quiz the Since 2004 the Trent College Finals. The Bancroft’s boys planned the Regional Finals of the British exceptional sportswoman they are community, including The Elms each race to optimise results and Schools Karting Championship. It all inspired by. Nursery and Junior School and great teamwork ensured they has been great to see the progress The school’s rugby players were Trent Parent Association, has raised produced results. of the team’s young enthusiastic joined by Nottingham Rugby over £20,000 to support education The enthusiasm of current year racers through the years. We hope Academy players to enjoy a and infrastructure projects in two 13 pupil and team captain to repeat last year’s success at the Q&A session with 2003 World rural schools in Kenya. Amir Sampat led to the School Regional Final in April and book Cup winner, Lewis Moody, who The Trent College Foundation introducing a Karting Team our place in this year’s National captained England at the 2011 provides a source of funding for three years ago. In their second Final.” World Cup and toured New Zealand bursaries to widen student access, with the Lions in 2005. to help support a number of the Amongst the dinner guests were school’s capital projects and to Cross country competition a number of Trent College’s own directly support a range of teaching Milton Abbey School, Dorset, The Milton Abbey cross country sports stars, team captains and and learning projects and extra- annual Prep School Cross Country course is well known for providing scholars. curricular activities. competition took place last quite a challenge for competitors Richardson-Walsh said: “I worked Foster added: “Whatever you do, month (February) on a sunny with its off track route around on being the very best I could be with sport, with school, with life, and tried to do that every single commit to it. Don’t be afraid of winter’s afternoon with the Abbey the school grounds and up in to day. You can’t do more than that, failure. You never actually fail, you the woods – however the views of providing a stunning backdrop no one will ask any more of you learn from it and move on. Sport is for the many youngsters taking the stunning Capability Brown than that. Whatever it is be the very very good for teaching you that.” part from nine local Prep Schools. landscape more than make up for the exertion needed and muddy trainers! The schools taking part were Sandroyd, Hanford, Knighton House, Leweston, Forres Sandle Manor, Sunninghill, Salisbury Cathedral School, Castle Court and Chafyn Grove. The children competed both individually and as teams and three schools came out as clear winners across all the age group individual and team categories: Hanford, Sandroyd and Forres Pictured: Lewis Moody and Mark Foster (back), Kate Richardson-Walsh (right) with Sandle Manor. representative Trent College sports team captains and the Head, Mr Bill Pent

42 Sport & Sportswear Legends at sporting dinner Student drives Regional sponsorship for the sparkle Conference foundation 15-year old Gustav Burton, category has really raised the bar in a Year 10 student at Felsted junior motor sport as the cars are School, Essex, will participate in the most technically advanced in hosted the Renault UK Clio Cup Junior the marketplace, plus there’s all the Championship’s 2018 season to professionalism that Renault Sport Felsted School, Essex, stage. All the keynote speakers raise money for UK registered is renowned for that comes with it. hosted the annual Round made themselves available charity and international NGO, the I see it as the best arena in which Square Regional conference, throughout the conference, Sparkle Foundation. to develop as a young driver.” welcoming delegates from 27 to take part in follow-up Gus, a member of Team Pyro, For those wishing to get behind Round Square Schools from workshops. The delegates were will take to the track in the young Gus and the Sparkle given various tasks over the a range of countries across ‘Sparkle Car’. He will donate 100% Foundation, car sponsorship Europe and the Mediterranean. weekend, including preparing of proceeds from sponsorship packages start from as little as for an interactive debate on Round Square is a worldwide advertising to the foundation and £500 and sponsors who pledge democratic voice, free will, network of innovative schools aims to raise at least £15k this year. between £2k and £5k will also political discord and social secure their logo on Mr Burton’s in over 50 countries across Sparkle Malawi will use all money harmony. All the pupils were race suit or helmet. six continents, who share raised by Gus to contribute to engaged and interested with a universal set of values. the construction of two new It’s estimated by the British the various subjects presented Membership of the Round classrooms, an office and toilets Automobile Racing Club that circa to them, and the topics sparked Square opens up access for for the children and staff of the 41,500 people will attend the Clio some passionate debates. Cup Junior Championship 2018 Felstedians to numerous Sparkle Foundation and the project race meetings. The event will also exciting opportunities to visit As well as workshops, talks in Malawi. receive coverage via Renault on line. over 80 schools worldwide, and debates the delegates Gus said: “I feel confident I can For more information about the through exchanges, gap year worked with the North London make a serious bid for the Clio sponsorship packages available, opportunities and educational based Community Theatre Cup Junior crown in 2018 – the please visit gusburtonracing.com conferences. Group, Haringey Shed to create a new country to hold Every year, the conference the first democratic election. focuses on a specific pillar The delegates were presented of the Round Square values, with six politicians who over which this year was the topic the course of the weekend of Democracy. Opened by revealed more about their former Felstedian and Magic character before the delegates Bus Charity Founder, Matthew had to vote for who would Spacie, the conference win the election. challenged any preconceived notions of democracy by Head of Global Education and highlighting the difficulties Round Square Co-ordinator that we face in day to day at Felsted, Daniel Emmerson life with politics and how said: “It was a delightfully technology is shaping this. insightful conference, thanks to the superb efforts and Felsted pupils led workshops participation of our own to pose questions on the pupils and everyone who Rosehill have been supplying quality intricate dimensions of attended. It was wonderful to contract furniture for over three decades. democracy and to take apart see just how engaged they all any broad, overarching We have products to fit all areas of your school including: were with their subject and definitions that have been · Durable poly classroom chairs in how eager they were to listen adult & junior sizes taught in the past. to the views of other people, · Classroom tables & exam desks During the conference, even when they conflicted · Lab stools and swivel base chairs delegates also heard from with their own ideas. With · Staff room and common room furniture · Breakout area tables and chairs BBC Reporter, Mr Thomas a follow-up Round Square · Lockers and changing room benches Sparrow who gave a deeply conference on the subject of · Cafeteria furniture insightful talk about the post-truth politics coming · Office furniture and filing cabinets ‘Alternative for Deutschland’ up at Herlufsholm School in and how democratic values and Denmark, this is sure to be a To discuss your requirements or for advice principals can lead to right wing mere chapter in our Round and quotations please contact Rosehill on ideologists taking the centre Square journey as a school.” 0161 485 1717 or view www.rosehill.co.uk

Independent Schools Magazine 43 Talking Point Has our ‘throwaway’ culture caused the teacher retention crisis? When you look around your staffroom; do you see colleagues who are invested in, who feel empowered and trusted enough to stay for the ‘long haul’? Do you consider teachers the pillars of your school? Asks Ben Coombes...

As a society, we run the risk through effective educational their classroom, as it does not of our rampant consumerism management? Seamus Nevin, allow for a true reflection of infiltrating the workplace – head of policy research at the strengths and weaknesses. It is thinking that if there is any Institute of Directors agrees, possibly the greatest irony of conflict in ethos and approach, saying “A constructive working all in the education system that then the relationship has no environment is fundamental to we do not show our teachers future, and we should invest our staff retention – and managers the same respect, and level of Ben Coombes left a 30-year career in limited resources elsewhere. have an essential role to play in education to found IWeYou; a consultancy individualization, that we expect dedicated to improvement – whether it You only have to glance at setting the tone”. them to show pupils. The present be individuals, corporations or education. appraisal method encourages Based in Bruton, Somerset, Ben travels the newspapers to see that Performance appraisals are seen as all over the UK to deliver his appraisal teacher retention is a very real an important, if not fundamental, reporting on staff in a binary programme to both schools and businesses. problem, and one that could part of effective management. manner – “up to standard” or Please drop an email to [email protected] “needs improvement”. With the for a no obligation conversation about how seriously impact on our children Although, in their current form he can help you administer this approach and economy for years (if not they are not an appealing process multitude of responsibilities senior in your school. decades) to come. It is unilaterally for anyone – management managers are expected to juggle, acknowledged that more teachers or teacher, so no wonder the can we blame them for looking purpose, based on generating are leaving the profession than attitude of “if in doubt, chuck it for the quick and easy option of peer responsibility in a peer- are being persuaded to join it, out” prevails. The present method “managing out” (which is not designed process where the and the Department of Education of teaching appraisals adds yet really managing at all) the under- standards and expectation come appears to have run out of tricks more paperwork, and red tape, to performers who might jeopardize from collegial responsibility, then up its sleeves. There is no money teachers’ ever-growing mountain, the all-important Inspection perhaps our teachers will begin to be able to offer corporately both of which have been cited as rating? Removing the “odd one to feel more empowered and attractive salaries, and the funds reasons teachers are leaving the out” is, after all, what we’ve been valued. It costs around £4,000 to for advertising and recruiting profession; and it’s no wonder taught to do in every other aspect recruit a new teacher (according are fast running out. So surely, when TES reports that the average of our life, but goes against to the Select Education annual the obvious answer is to spend primary school teacher already everything teachers stand for in review) surely £4,000 that would be better spent compounding the money available investing spends four days on paperwork their classes. in our current teaching body, our initial investment in our staff for every ten days of teaching. So how should school work body? However, without properly to retain staff? To have a “Employers have appraising our staffroom, and harmonious staffroom we must In sum, management in schools thereby generating an accurate ensure cohesion and mutual must adapt to survive (to paraphrase Charles Darwin). gone away from overview of the positive and respect; teachers who feel they The systems used to manage the idea that an negative aspects, we cannot begin are treated as professionals, and staff must be to support staff – to manage properly, or understand invested in, will in turn be more employee is a long- allow them to feel autonomous, the issues, let alone put in place willing to apply themselves to creative and empowered. There retention mechanisms. So whilst a common goal. David Rock’s term asset to the also needs to be a school-wide performance appraisals are a SCARF model for leadership company, someone change of mentality; both in valuable resource in improving the (based on neuroscientific the Leadership Team and the under-achiever, they need to be to be nurtured findings) includes ‘A’ for staffroom so that there is a unity fit for purpose (showing faith not Autonomy, and that is what we of purpose, an acceptance of and developed, fear) and utilized to empower the should be encouraging. There is individuality and a respect for our professional, rather than provide to a new notion often the temptation, especially professionals. Education is most management with an excuse to when you are time-poor, to tell effective when it is consistent that they are not have to manage. a colleague how to perform a – we are doing no-one any disposable.” As it stands, the current task, forgetting that they too are favours with a constant turnover appraisal system is “one size a trained professional, with their of teachers, and eventually the Barbara Ehrenreich fits all”; an approach all good own ideas and approaches. If we recruitment pool will run dry, and teachers know not to adopt in develop a process that is fit for where will we be then?

44 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Conference goes global It was a real global gathering helped organise the two-day event of the minds as students from with a group of seven other Sixth Manchester High School for Girls Formers from Manchester High. welcomed a group of international She said: “We were thrilled to delegates to their Model United welcome delegates from Iran and Nations (MUNHigh2018) Latvia; they brought a distinct conference. international perspective to the Introducing Kitebrook News! Pupils from schools in Latvia and event and made it feel all the BBC News School Report gives young people in the UK the chance to Iran were joined by over 300 teens more like a real United Nations make their own news reports for a real audience. Kitebrook Preparatory from across the UK to debate meeting. We hope that our School, Gloucestershire, was delighted to participate in this opportunity some of the world’s burning successors at MHSG will continue to help develop students’ journalistic skills. issues; from nuclear disarmament to build relationships with schools Audiences can follow Kitebrook News stories by visiting their YouTube to LGBT rights. worldwide and make MUNHigh an channel and by searching for ‘Young Reporters Kitebrook’. Their most MUNHigh2018 Secretary General, internationally renowned student recent story covers Kitebrook’s Senior Choir at the Liverpool Peace Proms 18-year-old Alexandra Thacker, conference. Model United Nations and the news team are currently covering Young Enterprise Week at the helps develop our understanding school. Kitebrook News has also collaborated with Cotswold TV covering of the world around us and gives the Head for a Day story. us a forum to discuss pressing issues that currently challenge the global community. Our theme this year was technology and we felt it was important to highlight the benefits and challenges that technological innovation brings for ours and the next generation.” Pictured: From left: Manchester High School for Girls Head Mistress, Mrs Claire Hewitt, Katrina Gulave and Elizaveth Lagutina from the International School of Latvia, Sana Ajilchi and Melissa Nikoosokhantayar from Narjes School Tehran, Iran, and MUNHigh2018 Secretary General, 18-year-old MHSG student Alexandra Thacker Hair donations Just a week after the Duchess of school, was later diagnosed with Cambridge was in the news for a brain tumour and subsequently the same generous act, eleven of shaved her head for surgery, Printers Unlimited Cobham Hall School, Kent, girls donating her hair too. and staff were presented with Girls from across the school took by Roberts Ink thank you certificates for each part, from Year 8 through to donating a length of their hair to Year 13, and beyond, with an A new way of doing things be used to create wigs for children alumnus, Ming O’Neill-Byrne also with cancer. contributing after hearing about Printers Unlimited by Roberts Ink are catching on to Spanish teacher and Round Square the challenge through her sister. has a refreshingly simple approach their offer. Schools to a printer solution – providing simply agree to only Representative Miss Jessica Caro In addition to donating lengths use the Roberts Quintana, who saw a leaflet of hair, the School also donated printers at no cost to the school Ink supplied toner, in a hairdressing salon back in the sum of £500, which covers the on free loan. With no rent, lease and their cost of the toner is September, set the challenge. or purchase costs more schools cost of making one wig. Miss Caro competitive – a school may never Unbeknownst to her at the time, Quintana expects more girls to buy or rent a printer again. the challenge would become participate, with many planning to Their zero waste plan offers deeply meaningful. Her sister, grow their hair longer to be able recycling boxes to return the Aida, also a former teacher at the to contribute the required length. empty cartridges for re-use via a zero waste scheme. The zero waste scheme will reuse the cartridges or be remanufactured into something else helping schools to meet their duty of care about responsible waste management. Currently expanding across the North West they are poised to move their operation up to be able to offer it nationally. Email: [email protected] www.printersbyrobertsink.com

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 45 A lesson in lockdown Even though a school or working The use of an integrated alarm and environment should always be communication system plays a key considered a safe place, regardless role in this regard, as it significantly of whatever is going on outside, accelerates both comprehension unfortunately this is not always the and crisis management procedures. case. Although major incidents or It means announcements and threats of violence at these types instructions can be communicated of premises are still rare, they are directly to the persons concerned, Litter Collection growing in frequency and, when with adequate volume and good they occur, it is vital to have a speech intelligibility. Furthermore, lockdown procedure in place. emergencies can be immediately reported to a central location, the to Mushroom The word lockdown used to be an nature and extent of the danger ‘Americanism’ typically associated Leafield Environmental has launched a range of ‘Mushroom bins’ that verified, and measures to assist with riots in US prisons, but it is add an element of fun to litter collection. people taken immediately. In order now being used globally to refer to Available with or without ‘character faces’, Mushroom bins are made to get maximum value from any situations where invacuation is more from colourful and highly durable polyethylene with smooth surfaces for investment, such a system can appropriate than evacuation as a also be used for internal everyday easy cleaning. The use of an internal plastic refuse sack is recommended means of keeping people safe. and gives the bin a large capacity of 60 litres (70 litres with an optional communication. Although they would hope never extended plastic liner). Although the reasons behind the to have to implement one, schools growing number of lockdowns At an overall height of 800mm, the Mushroom bin is tall enough to make and other organisations should have are certainly cause for concern, an impact but short enough for even young children to deposit their litter a coherent strategy for lockdown in the 150mm diameter open aperture in the top of the lid. by having clear and effective procedures. Surprisingly, there is communication systems installed Completely recyclable and suitable for indoor and outdoor use, this no statutory requirement to have alongside well rehearsed and new, colourful range of Mushroom bins is proving popular with a lockdown policy or procedure – understood younger children who have already been heard giving the character- organisations can simply choose to procedures, schools faced bins names. have one if they feel that it would and public buildings help them to manage risks. What will you call yours? Maisie… Megan… Mason… Max? can be sure they are It might soon be the case that a doing all they can to Tel: 01225 816541 mandatory strategy is required. protect occupants. www.leafieldrecycle.com www.toa.co.uk The Digest

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46 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Heads Hunted Among the upcoming head and principal appointments: Downside School Somerset Netherleigh & Rossefield School Yorkshire Wakefield Girls’ High School Yorkshire If you would like mention made of your upcoming head or principal appointment for which applications are sought please let us know – there is no charge for a listing. The Paragon School, Bath, playground has a new piece of fairytale magic in the form of an Owl & the Pussycat wood sculpture; a homage to Edward Lear. Based on the trunk of cut-down tree, this multi-faceted sculpture features an owl, pussycat, moon, stars, candles, a large rig for a sail, as well as giant pot of honey. Installed into the curve at the News items, contributions, comments and base of the tree is a new boat for children to sit in, enscribed with a line from the famous rhyme. suggestions are always welcomed by the editor. The Cupressus tree had been a much loved play place and spot of summer shade for most of its Please email to: sixty years. There was sadness when staff realised the tree had died and had to be felled. Having been such a feature of the playground at the school, they knew they wanted to do something [email protected] special, something that would complement the other wood carvings in the grounds. Schools featured in this issue include: Abbey Gate College Cundall Manor School Kitebrook Preparatory School Rosemead Preparatory School Abingdon School Dauntsey’s School Knighton House School Sibford School Ampleforth College Derby Grammar School Lewes Old Grammar School Sidcot School Ashville Prep School Derby High School Malvern College St. Aubyn’s School Ballard School Ellesmere College Manchester High School for Girls St. Benedict’s School Bancroft’s School Exeter Junior School Merton Court Prep School St. Mary’s School Barnard Castle School Stamford Endowed Schools Farlington School Milton Abbey School Bishop’s Stortford College Study School Bolton School Girls’ Division Felsted School Paragon School Towers Convent School Bromsgrove Preparatory School Gower School Plymouth College Trent College Bromsgrove School Grange School Polwhele House School Westfield School Cobham Hall School Heathfield School Queen Anne’s School Westonbirt School Cranleigh School King Edward’s Witley Ratcliffe College Winterfold School

The Independent Schools Magazine is read by decision-makers – Governors, Heads, Bursars, Departmental Managers – and reflects news, ideas, influences, and opinions in the independent education sector. A personal copy is mailed to heads and other key personnel in fee-paying independent schools plus opinion formers in governments, political parties and educational Vires per Verum – Strength through Truth associations. It is also available on the internet. Editorial Advisory Board The publishers are grateful for the interest, advice and support of a distinguished Editorial Advisory Board whose members currently include: Richard Brown: Head, Handcross Park School, Sussex Alex Beynon: Former Head of Press Relations, Independent Schools Council (ISC) Tory Gillingham: Managing Director of AMDIS – the Association of Marketing Kevin Fear: Head, Nottingham High School and Development in Independent Schools Deborah Leek-Bailey OBE: Advisor to Lord Nash on Cross Sector Elisabeth Lewis-Jones: a governor of Bloxham School, Oxfordshire; 2008 partnerships, Director of DLB Leadership Associates Ltd., former head of President of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations and Director of Liquid Babington House School, Kent Public Relations, a consultancy with expertise within the education sector Tim Wilbur: Director of Schools Consultancy at Gabbitas Educational Henry Briggs: Senior Partner, HW, Chartered Accountants Birmingham and a Consultants; former head of Rossall School, Lancashire, and of Wanganui former school Governor Collegiate School, New Zealand Georgina Belcher: Communications Officer, Independent Schools Council Helen Davies: Bursar, Tormead School, Surrey

Subscriptions: £3 per issue, or £20 per Advertising Sales & Accounts: All rights reserved. Any form of reproduction of this magazine in part or whole is prohibited without the written consent of the publisher. annum (nine issues) payable in advance by Mark Brown, Fellows Media Ltd., The Gallery, Any views expressed by advertisers or contributors may not be those cheque to Bull Nelson Ltd (please remember Manor Farm, Southam, Cheltenham GL52 3PB of the publisher. Unsolicited artwork, manuscripts and images are to include your name and full address) to: T: 01242 259249 accepted by the publisher on the understanding that the publisher E: [email protected] cannot be held responsible for loss or damage however caused. All The Independent Schools Magazine material, copy, and artwork supplied is assumed to be copyright free Editor & Publisher, Distribution: unless otherwise advised in writing. Advertisement bookings are PO Box 4136 accepted subject to normal terms and conditions – see website. Kimble Earl T: 01491 671998 Upper Basildon, Reading E: [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine is Berkshire RG8 6BS published by Bull Nelson Limited. E: [email protected] Design studio/pre-press production/website: Reg in England No 2876999. Andrew Wicks T: 01635 201125 © Copyright Bull Nelson Ltd. www.independentschoolsmagazine.co.uk E: [email protected] Printed by Manson Group.

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 47 WHATEVER THE SPORT WE’VE GOT THE KIT Bespoke sportswear at a price substantially less than leading competitors.

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