January 2016

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Marsh Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Copyright © 2016 Marsh Ltd. All rights reserved. Our front page pictures New year... New website... New e-magazine A fresh start for 2016 – please visit our upgraded, updated website at www.independentschoolsmagazine.co.uk where all independent schools staff can request their free personal e-copy of ISM. The printed version will continue to be mailed to heads and bursars, and remains available on subscription. See page 47 for more details. In this issue... Exam Grade Challenges 04 ~ 05 ~ is it too much to ask for accurate results? Award for cultural College to Slash Sixth-form Fees 06 education ~ grandparents help foot the bill for many pupils nationwide Members of the Royal Ballet visited Ellesmere Charities Bill Latest 07 College, Shropshire, after it was named as the ~ voluntary partnerships, or enforced liaisons? first independent school in the Midlands to win the Arts Council’s new Artsmark Platinum Award Profile 24 ~ 25 recognising a strong cultural education. in conversation with Cory Lowde Ellesmere was invited by the Arts Council to pilot the new initiative following a successful bid Studying Stateside 26 last year where the school received the highest accolade possible, the ArtsMark Gold Award. ~ top tips to help students win places at US universities Only nineteen primary and secondary schools in the Midlands took part in a nationwide pilot New Vocationalism 32 supported by Arts Connect West Midlands and ~ changing face of post-16 education The Mighty Creative’s, two of the ten regional organisations across the country helping connect University Admissions 33 schools, children and young people with the arts. ~ nine-year trends by school type Deputy Head Vicky Pritt-Roberts who helped co-ordinate the school’s bid for the award said Classroom Technology 44 “’I’m delighted that ’s dynamic ~ ‘hardly used by teachers’ says new study arts education has been nationally recognised. Holding Artsmark status means we are leading the way in providing children and young people with Plus excellent arts and cultural experiences.” Power of Outdoor Education 08 ~ 09 Artsmark is Arts Council ’s flagship Changing Faces...Changing Places 10 ~ 11 programme, which enables schools and other ATL Conference reflections 12 organisations to evaluate, strengthen, and celebrate their arts and cultural provision. The Chemistry brought to life 14 core of the Platinum Level Award demonstrates GSA annual conference 16 Ellesmere’s commitment to supporting and Special Needs Focus Feature 17 inspiring other schools and creative groups in the Royal Day at Bolton 18 wider community. Mindfulness & Well-being on the curriculum 20 Pictured: Iain Mackay from the Royal Ballet with Zoe Fisher from Ellesmere College celebrating the Artsmark Platinum New breed of cathedral choristers 22 Award (PRNewsFoto/Ellesmere College) Music & Drama Focus Feature 27 ~ 31 A levels ~ how independent schools keep subjects going 34 A new breed of School Travel Focus Feature 35 ~ 37 cathedral choristers ISA award winners 38 Passing tourists, lured into Ely’s glorious Sport and Sports Grounds Focus Feature 39 ~ 43 cathedral by the strains of Howell’s Worcester New Products & Services; The Digest; Heads Hunted 45 ~ 47 Service are delighted by the sensitive interpretation offered by the young women in Is Your School Mentioned? See page 47 for an A~Z listing the choir stalls... feature page 22. Contact Us; Editorial Advisory Board; Key Personnel; Subscription Offer ~ 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 Focus on exam grade challenges

Most students get the exam grades they deserve. However, concerns remain about what has been described as ‘continued deterioration’ in the accuracy of exam grades received by a significant number of pupils. While Ofqual concludes that exam boards have “maintained standards appropriately” in terms of year-on-year levels of demand, the pattern of 2015 results indicates large and ever-increasing numbers of re-grades awarded across different subjects and qualifications... A special review from Dr Kevin Stannard, Director of Innovation and Learning at the Girls’ Day School Trust (pictured right), plus comments from HMC Chair Chris King and General Secretary William Richardson... ‘The real losers in this sorry tale are the students’ Is it too much to ask of the There is one ‘perverse incentive’ tale are the students. Having While I’m disinclined to end on public exam industry to deliver that might help explain why identified anomalies in their a low note, the growing lack accurate results in a timely exam boards aren’t champing grades, they subsequently of confidence in exam marking fashion, writes Dr Kevin Stannard at the bit to improve the risk losing their university has the potential to lead to As a society, there is no system: the flaws appear to conditional places as they wait a far bigger crisis in 2017. As doubt that we’re becoming provide a lucrative additional on tenterhooks for the outcomes linear A Levels come on stream, increasingly litigious, but this revenue stream. Take the 2015 they are hoping for. This is felt with AS being discounted, the can’t be the sole reason for the GCSE and A level results. Of particularly acutely when their importance of the final grade unprecedented rise in requests for the 572,000 papers that were chosen university insists on will be even more critical. At queried after the publication of re-marks and subsequent appeals, basing their offer on provisional present, there simply isn’t results, 481,500 grades remained results alone. Similarly short- and the inexorable increase in the enough time for grades to be unchanged (although marks may sighted is the ‘end of August number of revised grades. When unequivocally secured before well have gone up or down). UCAS-agreed guillotine’ which you take into account variations universities confirm places. If As refunds are only given for allows for re-grades based on in pass rates from board to board grades aren’t accurate, it follows re-marks that result in amended priority reviews but not those and subject to subject, as well that large numbers of students grades, at an average cost of which involve protracted appeals as fluctuations from year to will miss out on places as they £40 per paper this works out at or the review of coursework year, the amount of uncertainty await the results of timely and £3,620,000 given back to schools units. None of this is the original in the system comes close to costly reviews and re-grades. and £19,260,000 retained by sin of the universities, although undermining any remaining This is a tragedy with casualties the exam boards. It may not be HE has put itself under pressure confidence in exam outcomes. on all sides as students, often scientific but it suggests that by imposing such deadlines for The ever-growing number of needlessly but never painlessly, accurate examiners might become confirmation of results. requests for re-marks reflects the choose to take their talent a drain on exam board finances. There was a brief glimmer of lack of confidence that grades elsewhere. Unfortunately it doesn’t end hope in 2004 when the Schwartz published in August are anything Meanwhile, universities will there. The annual league tables Report showed that a post- more than ‘provisional’. are immovable feasts thanks qualification application process continue to vote with their feet, So what’s to be done? Ofqual to press deadlines that insist would be more efficient than substituting their own tests for is reviewing the appeals process on publishing results almost the current system of predicted what they see as flawed public and exam boards have prioritised immediately after they have been grades and conditional offers. exams. These tests (we already the recruitment of higher quality issued. Likewise, universities are The exam boards argued that have LNAT, BMAT, UKCAT, examiners. This is all to the keen to confirm places for the they couldn’t bring exam admin TSA, HAT, PAT, EAT, &c.) will good, but given the extent of the coming term as soon as possible. forward in the year, while proliferate, and students will problem, tinkering at the edges The significance of the August the universities were opposed find themselves preparing to improve marking and ensure results has subsequently become to delaying the start of the for them alongside their A a more efficient review process vastly overstated, particularly academic year. Between them, Levels. And while public exams will only marginally improve the when they are still ‘provisional’ they succeeded in opposing become expensively irrelevant, administration of what remains a and therefore not set in stone. what would have resulted in an the tutoring industry and its fundamentally flawed system. The real losers in this sorry altogether fairer system. additional costs will grow.

4 Independent Schools Magazine TeenTech Teacher of the Year An innovative and talented teacher Those grade from Loughborough , Leicestershire, Daljit Kaur, received the award of Teen Tech Teacher of the Year from His Royal challenges in detail Highness The Duke of York, during a special presentation at Buckingham • Highest ever number of pupils given wrong Palace. She was nominated for the grades: 90,650, up 17% on 2014 award by her students. The TeenTech Awards mission • Inquiries about results (preliminary appeals) is to celebrate talent and enable young people to make real-life up 27% in one year to 572,500 contact with experts in the world • 97% rise in ‘processing errors’ reported by of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM). Every year group and students will collaborate exam boards hundreds of enthusiastic teams with young people across the world. throughout the UK register for the • Many of the most able languages students contest, sponsored and managed A study by the Royal are being penalised at A level by the award-winning science event of Engineering highlights a organisation, TeenTech CIC. For shortage of future graduates with participating teams to win their 830,000 Science, Technology and HMC General Secretary, Dr Chris King, Chair of HMC place in the finals, they need to Engineering graduates needed by William Richardson, said: and Headmaster of Leicester prove high levels of collaboration 2020. The UK currently produces 23,000 engineering graduates Grammar School said: with experts in the world of “Re-grades on appeal across a year. A key reason for this is technology and engineering. GCSE and A level in 2015 rose “The fundamental point is thought to be the lack of quality by a very concerning 17% schools must be able to rely on Mrs Kaur received the accolade for careers awareness amongst young compared to 2014, with at least the accuracy of the examination bringing STEM-based innovation people at critical points in their 90,650 candidates being handed marking and grading their pupils and creativity to the classroom. She academic lives such as choosing has worked tirelessly for a number false results by exam boards on receive. Human error will always GCSE and A level Subjects. of years to create an environment in results day. play a part, but the number TeenTech is an award winning, which students are able to explore of grades changed has more industry-led initiative, co-founded their innovative ideas and maximise “These figures represent one than doubled in four years so by Maggie Philbin (BBC Tomorrow’s the potential for those ideas to re-issued and corrected exam something is badly wrong. World) and Chris Dodson, OBE, become reality. She has been certificate for each of the seats Chairman of the Institute of “Those affected then face a double at the forefront of trialling new inside Wembley stadium. That Directors (South) who worked technologies, apps and software at whammy, not only of inaccurate with Berkshire Education Business is a huge number of needlessly the school and recently introduced a marking but also of an opaque Partnerships, companies and disappointed and upset students, programmable humanoid NAO robot and byzantine appeals system business organisations to create a some of whom will have missed to the classroom. which makes it hard to get justice. very special experience for young out on places at their chosen HMC has worked hard for three In 2016 TeenTech will open the people. The first TeenTech ran in the further education college or years with Ofqual to bring this to awards up to 16 - 18 year old age Thames Valley in November 2008. university. light for the good of all pupils, “Heads’ and teachers’ confidence including welcoming when state Pride of Exeter in exam marking and grading schools appeal grades which they do not trust. “The year just keeps getting better continues to deteriorate and it and better,” said Bee Hughes, is disturbing to note in today’s “We have repeatedly asked for Headmistress at The Maynard School report that some of this increase greater transparency, including a in Exeter, as she reflected upon was the result of a 97% rise in breakdown of national statistics by winning Teacher of the Year at the processing errors at the boards”. exam board and subject.” recent Pride of Exeter Awards. “I was surprised to even be nominated and never expected in a million years A-level & GCSE grades challenged that I would win! I was gobsmacked when they called out my name and Grades challenged Grades changed then slightly concerned because I 2010 189,950 34,800 hadn’t even put any thought to an acceptance speech!” 2011 233,350 38,450 2012 291,100 46,250 Whilst some other independent girls’ schools succumb to a national 2013 329,750 54,400 downward spiral away from single- amazing staff and wonderful pupils 2014 414,850 77,400 sex education, the Maynard School to thank for putting The Maynard 2015 506,750 90,650 is expanding in September 2016 in the spotlight. This wasn’t an when it will open a new Pre-Prep individual prize for me alone – it Department for girls aged 4 – 7 is one that the whole team has IGCSE grades challenged years (Reception to Year 2) to satisfy contributed to and I just happened demand, said Ms Hughes. Grades challenged Grades changed to be the figurehead who got to “It really has been an incredible stand up on the night and receive 2015 39,256 2,902 school year and I have all my the award on behalf of everyone.”

Independent Schools Magazine 5 FOCUS ON FEES College to slash sixth-form fees Just three months into his tenure as Headmaster at Rendcomb College, the co-educational day and for children aged from 3 to 18 in Gloucestershire, Rob Jones announced a 30 per cent reduction in the day fee for Sixth Form pupils as of September 2016. Rob talked exclusively to ISM about the decision...

Q. How do you anticipate this fee pupils is £21,450 per year, the new Q. Do you anticipate an influx of pupils still moving up to sixth reduction affecting the finances of fee from September 2016 will be new joiners for the sixth form? form as you would expect? Rendcomb College? £15,000 per year. What’s been the reaction to the A. Both our Head Boy and Head news from parents in the region? A. We are reducing the day fees Q. How have pupil numbers moved Girl have come through Rendcomb to attract new pupils and also to in recent years? Senior school A. I am very pleased to report that College from the junior school recognise the huge commitment of numbers have remained pretty we are already seeing an influx of and are shining examples of a our current parents. While fees per static between 2007 and 2014 at interest and visits for September Rendcomb education. With two child will go down, I am confident around 270, but what is the sixth 2016 although the expectation is new Heads in place this academic that we will attract and retain form experience? that our announcement would take year (Victoria Beevers and I began more pupils at Sixth Form having a a year to filter through as parents at the same time as Head of Juniors A. Sixth Form numbers have positive effect overall. The additional and pupils tend to make their and Head of College respectively) remained stable with a significant pupils will also add to the College decisions much earlier. we have an opportunity and proportion of boarders. I am keen in many other ways – strengthening determination to promote the two to build the Sixth Form and give Reaction has been really positive. leadership, sports, drama and music. Schools as one College. We are While it is still a considerable sum, more families the opportunity of an already seeing greater collaboration Q. How does the new day fee for parents can see that we are making excellent, tailored education in the in many areas such as science and sixth form compare to the day fee a Rendcomb College education more run up to university and life after sport where the junior pupils benefit for lower age groups? accessible. With six Sixth Form pupils school. Our Sixth Form curriculum from expert teaching and resources. invited for Oxbridge interviews, three A. By reducing the fees for the is currently under review as we look We are also able to stretch our most GCSE pupils winning the £25,000 critical final two years of a pupil’s to introduce more opportunities and able juniors by involving them in Longitude Explorer Prize and many compulsory education we can offer skills; we have a dedicated on-site senior groups such as the Orchestra others having success in areas as quality teaching at an affordable house where Sixth Formers spend and Chamber Choir. These current diverse as Polo, Lacrosse, Music and price. We are widening the net for two weeks managing their finances, opportunities, in addition to the Hot Air Ballooning they can see parents looking to invest in the final cooking, cleaning and washing. changes I will oversee in the senior we offer an exciting, individualised years of their child’s education. The A work experience programme school over the coming years, will package. new Sixth Form day fee now sits is also being introduced and we no doubt add to the desire for towards the middle of our fees scale; are extending our leadership Q. The Junior School has been pupils to remain at Rendcomb the current day fee for Sixth Form programme. developing for 15 years - are College through to Sixth Form. Parents turn to grandparents to pay school fees New research from Investec Wealth account for the third largest source grandparents rank third in sources even home deposits for their & Investment has found that a fifth of capital for parents looking of finance for university, after grandchildren too. (19%) of parents rely, or plan to rely to finance school fees behind parents’ salaries (53%) and their “While many grandparents prefer to on, grandparents to help pay for their salary (63%) and savings/ savings/investments (50%). see their money being put towards independent school fees for their investments (47%). Chris Aitken, Head of Financial helping the younger generation children. Grandparents’ largesse doesn’t Planning at Investec Wealth get on in life, they need to ensure According to the study, on stop with school fees, however; & Investment said: “For many they have enough for themselves, average grandparents pay a third the research shows that 13% of families educating children particularly if they end up having (33%) towards the cost of their parents whose children have gone privately is only an option if they to pay for long term care. Likewise, grandchildren’s education but 19% to university or plan to do so have receive a financial leg-up from the parents shouldn’t become overly of parents are fortunate enough done so with financial help from grandparents. And it doesn’t stop reliant on their grandparents’ to have the older generation pay the grandparents towards fees and there; grandparents are increasingly generosity as circumstances can over half the fees. Grandparents living costs. As with school fees, paying towards university and quickly change. If you have sent or plan to send any of your children to independent school, how did you pay/ do you plan to pay for this? % of parents Salary 63% Savings/ investments 47% Assistance from the child’s grandparents 19% Loans/ credit cards 9% Assistance from other relatives 7% Inheritance 6% Re-mortgage 6% Downsized property 5% Sold assets/ valuables 5% Other 5% Source: Consumer Intelligence survey among 1,072 parents, conducted in October 2015 on behalf of Investec Wealth & Investment

6 Independent Schools Magazine ~ Charities Bill latest ~

Voluntary partnerships ~ Quotable quotes... “[Labour’s plans] would undermine the thousands of or enforced liaisons? existing partnerships because schools would have to obey the The Labour party’s idea of charities from these proposed new charity rules.” forcing independent schools to amendments. Schools are now Barnaby Lenon share their facilities and able to highlight their valuable Chairman of the Independent Schools Council expertise with the state sector partnership work on the new has been kicked into the long www.schoolstogether.org website “This betrays the Labour Party’s prejudiced and outdated grass - for the time being at - a public platform created with assumption that state schools least. Their amendments to the Independent/State Schools lag behind private schools.” Partnership forum at the DfE - to the Charities (Protection and Nicky Morgan Social Investment) Bill did not show good work being done to a Education Secretary wide audience of opinion formers get through a Parliamentary “Instead of telling independent committee earlier this month and decision makers. This provides schools off, it would be far (January). Commentators through their annual reports to a showcase beyond individual better if both major political believe the idea, which might the Charity Commission and most schools’ websites where everyone parties worked with independent oblige independent schools schools run collaborative projects as can see good practice across the schools to make this world-class a matter of course, simply as part to open art, music and drama country which might inspire further education available to more of their engagement with the local bright pupils. Forty years ago, departments to state schools collaborative projects. We encourage community and supporting high that is what the direct grant and offer careers advice all schools to take a look at the site educational standards generally. system did. It’s a shame that and help with university and to upload their projects. education is now engaged in applications to pupils from It was heartening to see amendments to the Charities Bill Productive partnership work is based such a sterile dispute.” state schools, may resurface withdrawn at the committee stage in on independent and state schools John Claughton later. Many independent and Chief Master the Commons. These amendments finding the best way to work with state schools already cooperate King Edward’s School Birmingham would have sought to introduce each other, by themselves. via voluntary partnership ‘ISSP’ legislation requiring independent schemes which benefit both, schools to work with state schools although some state schools on a range of specific, determined are known to be hesitant about projects and could have gone a such arrangements. Here, Julie great way to undermine and undo a lot of hard work, over many years, WE Robinson (pictured), General Secretary of the Independent already put into fostering these Schools Council (ISC) reflects strong ties. It is not the case that all REALLY on the issue... independent schools are large - The Charities Bill has been the typical ISC school is one of moving through Parliament for around 350 pupils - and many GET some time now, and at each stage schools operate within tight the idea of legislation to prescribe financial restraints. partnership work between independent and state schools has Successful partnership work SCHOOLS... never been far away. is created by pairs or groups of schools seeking to develop There are some in both the House projects according to local need. ...picked of Lords and Commons who clearly It grows from good working believe that the facilities and relationships between the schools exceptional teaching and guidance and thrives on flexibility and enjoyed by independent school local opportunity. It is because pupils should be made available to of this that we, as well as students in the state sector. independent schools of all sizes We don’t disagree. Nor do the across England, do not believe schools we represent. In fact, a ‘one size fits all’ approach is partnership is something which has appropriate. Several schools have been happening for decades and is written to their MPs pointing continuing to grow. this out. Schools which are charities already ISC and the Associations remain kilvington.com report on partnership working fully committed to protecting The School Branding Experts demonstrating their public benefit independent schools which are

Independent Schools Magazine 7 The Power of the Outdoors in Education In the late 1970s, a Pennsylvania hospital was trying to work out why patients on one side of the ward recovered far more quickly from gall-bladder surgery than patients on the other side. Having previously approached doctors and other health professionals to investigate, they finally turned to Robert Ulrich, an architect who specialised in hospital design. After nine years he came up with a breathtakingly simple answer. The side of the ward with ‘quick recoveries’ looked out onto a group of trees, while those on the other side had a window with a view of a brick wall. This now classic study on the power of nature on health and well-being has led to many developments in the world of healthcare, and many further studies on its impact on the human psyche. But what implications does this have for our practice in schools and education? Robert Lobatto, Head of King Alfred School, London reflects...

We were given a powerful many students a refreshing relief education’ movement, as in successive presentations how insight into this question at from the sometimes over-bearing presented by Mike Grenier - authentic student-led education our recent annual King Alfred health and safety culture that teacher of English Literature at could be nurtured both by School Society Conference, by can dominate our schools. Eton College who also spoke at modern technology and by John Blaney, who has pioneered the Conference. For him, taking ancient landscapes. Thirdly, it slows down the world, the Forest Schools movement in time to study in depth and which for many of our children King Alfred School, located this country, following visits to reflect on the learning process and young adults appears too in North London, embraced Scandinavia in the early 1990s. is vital, in contrast to a ‘fast fast and chaotic due to social Outdoor education at its Frustrated with life in the indoor food’ culture of education in media, anxious parenting and the founding in 1898, and this classroom, John embraced an which measurement has become pressures to ‘be successful’ within strong tradition carries on today. approach where the floor of the over-dominant. Perhaps more narrowly defined criteria. As a Headteacher, recently arrived forest is his carpet, and the trees surprisingly, they resonated with from the State sector, I have been are his displays. And finally, it almost forces ideas of Sugatra Mitra (Professor struck by the strong commitment students to lead their own of Educational Technology At the centre of his approach to allowing students to take risks, are a number of core beliefs. and the confidence to support First, the multi-sensory approach outdoor experiences rather than means every individual can ‘playing it safe’ in the classroom. connect with the natural This can be seen everyday at environment – seeing, touching, breaktimes, where there is much feeling and breathing what greater freedom for students is around them. As recently and children can genuinely be reported in the TES, it is no children – sometimes noisy, coincidence that Chinese schools sometimes lively, always free. are seeking to develop this Children are encouraged to kind of practice in response to make camps in the wooded increasing urbanisation. areas, climb trees, or explore the Secondly, confidence, resilience giant tree house. Many parents and creativity are built through comment that this is a real the successful achievement of attraction of the school. Whilst not necessarily in line with the small tasks which involve real- learning. It is inevitable that at Newcastle University, ideas of the currently dominant life problem solving, such as in such a setting, the Teacher England, famous for his prize neo-traditionalists, it creates den building or navigating a will have less control, and the winning TED talk “Hole in the a safe space for the physical, route. All can be successful in students will be directing what Wall” experiment) and Steve social, linguistic and emotional this world, and it is a chance for they do. Wheeler (Associate Professor in those who are less successful Information and Communication development of each child where Combined, and at its best, in the more traditional lesson Technology at the Plymouth they are not being constrained by outdoor learning is truly holistic environment to shine. As Institute of Education). They adult control and expectations. – supporting the physical, social, many of us will know from our both spoke passionately about The commitment is also seen in linguistic and emotional aspects own experiences, the sense of the importance of students our Camps programme, through of the learner. achievement gained through leading their learning, and the which every student from Year 4 successfully negotiating a risky John’s presentation resonated power of technology to facilitate to Year 9 spend a week in small challenge is profound, and for with the ideas of the ‘Slow this. It was fascinating to hear groups living as a community in

8 Independent Schools Magazine The Power of the Outdoors in Education The changing face of education - learning beyond the classroom When we think of education, – a national accreditation we imagine children learning recognising and supporting the in a classroom environment development of LOtC across all – but it’s so much more than subject areas. that. ‘Education is not just CLOtC CEO Elaine Skates about getting 5 A-Cs’, states influential campaigner Dame recounts that getting students Julia Cleverdon DCVO, CBE. outside the classroom Instead, it’s about ‘helping ‘tranforms the lives of young young people to give more and people’ by improving their get more from their lives.’ In skills and character attributes. reality, education takes place However, with government beyond the classroom as well focus and schools being driven as within. by quantifiable performance the natural world. We are also sleeping in their own community Last term, 180 teachers and related results, the initiative fortunate to have a number of as part of the Curriculum. Whilst providers of experiences has struggled to gain facilities on site that enable adults are there to facilitate, outside the classroom ventured widespread recognition and outdoor education to be built the pupils are in charge of their to Gilwell Park Scout Activity support. into the curriculum. For the own experience and have to deal Centre, London for the Council To strengthen the cause, an Lower school, we have a small with the challenges it brings. for Learning Outside the extensive 5-year research farm which is maintained by the Each year, the parents and the Classroom’s (CLOtC) 8th annual project has been carried out younger students. This creates conference and awards dinner. teachers are deeply impressed by by Learning Away to highlight a powerful model for learning Each had their individual what young people can do when the importance of residential teamwork, responsibility and how reasons for attending, but given genuine responsibility and learning. The research to care for other creatures. We all were there to collectively true independence. found that ‘a residential have an outdoor classroom which support a cause they strongly learning experience provides was co-designed by a parent who Outdoor education, and the believe in – to improve opportunities and benefits is an entomologist, and enables opportunities that it inevitably learning opportunities outside that cannot be achieved in any the study of a huge variety of brings, are more important now the classroom environment. other educational context or insects that would otherwise than ever. There is a relentless A number of speaker sessions setting*’. Project Leader Peter go completely unnoticed. momentum in our system and insightful workshops Carne OBE tells us the benefits And we have an outside forge towards narrow educational were held throughout the include students’ ‘resilience, for blacksmithing, which outcomes. Schools are in danger day, focussing on character confidence and well-being’. enables students to connect of becoming qualification development opportunities to the elemental side of their factories, rather than places of to help achieve academic For every child in the UK to personality, a craft tradition, and education. By engaging with the success. An awards ceremony experience the world beyond the power of practical work made real world outside the classroom, followed later in the evening, the classroom, CLOtC has set recognising and congratulating with their own sweat. we can restore some balance, out to make an impact in the nominees for their shaping policy nationally and One of the most interesting and support our young people dedication to the cause and locally – working with sector initiatives at King Alfred is to develop into well-rounded encouragement of others. groups, pushing the benefits the Village project in Year 8, and well-grounded adults, who Since its establishment in of LOtC to government and where students spend a week can thrive and be successful in 2009, CLOtC has striven to constructing, inhabiting and today’s complex world. promoting providers, schools help schools and providers and individuals to advocate give high-quality experiences LOtC on their part. beyond the classroom that With this in hand, the future support the needs of young people. Today, there are 933 for LOtC must be positive accredited providers who have to ensure that ‘we use the been awarded the LOtC Quality community as a toolkit to grow Badge for offering excellent young people’s experiences, learning outside the classroom, opportunities, courage and as well as 97 schools who bravery’, Dame Julia Cleverdon have achieved LOtC Mark DCVO, CBE. *Learning Away Final Evaluation Report, York Consulting June 2015 Article courtesy of educational group travel specialist, Rayburn Tours. www.rayburntours.com

Independent Schools Magazine 9 Withington joined Withington Girls’ School in Duncan Byrne Scholar. He will bring with him wide School, 1995. In addition to her subject has been ranging experience in independent Manchester, has teaching, she has had experience appointed as the schools, including boys’, mixed and announced the in a variety of whole school roles new Headmaster boarding environments, from his appointment of across all areas of school life, of Loughborough current position and previous posts current Deputy including Head of Years 10 and Grammar School. at Colfe’s School, Whitgift School, Head Mrs Sarah Haslam as the 11 and, since her appointment to The current Second Master of and Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School’s eleventh Headmistress. the role of Deputy Head in 2007, Cheltenham College will take up his School where he was Assistant Head. appointment at the independent Mrs Haslam will take up her new lead responsibility for Pastoral Care Duncan is married to Marie-Claire boys’ school at the start of the post next September, succeeding and Safeguarding. She is also an and has two sons. Loughborough summer term. Mrs Sue Marks, who is to retire at Independent Schools Inspector, Grammar School was founded in the end of the academic year. an Independent Schools Teacher He succeeds Paul Fisher, who is 1495 and is one of four schools retiring having led the school since Following her undergraduate Induction Panel lead trainer and in the Loughborough Endowed 1998. studies at The University of has been a Governor of another Schools Foundation, alongside Lancaster and her postgraduate independent school. Duncan was educated at Dulwich Loughborough High School, Our teaching qualification in Sheffield, As a Teacher of English, Sarah has College and graduated in 1995 with Lady’s Convent School and Fairfield Mrs Haslam began her career as a a keen interest in the Arts and also Honours in Modern and Medieval Preparatory School. The schools are Teacher of English in 1990 at an loves the outdoors, particularly hill Languages from Trinity College based on two neighbouring sites in HMC coeducational school and walking and sailing. Cambridge, where he was a Choral the university town.

The Maynard Torquay Boys’ Grammar School Alderley Edge up her position on 1 September School, Exeter, in 1986. During her tenure there School for Girls 2016. Mrs Jeys joins AESG from has announced she worked her way up the ranks has announced Manchester High School for that Miss Sarah to become the Deputy Head of the appointment Girls, where she has been Deputy Dunn, currently Sixth Form, Head of Careers and of Mrs Helen Headmistress (Pastoral) since 2012. the Deputy a member of the senior academic Jeys as the new She will succeed Sue Goff who is Head at Plymouth College, has leadership team. Headmistress of the school, taking retiring. been appointed as the new In 1995, Miss Dunn was Headmistress from September appointed Deputy Head of Mrs Frances King a number of schools, becoming 2016. Plymouth College where she is the new Chief Deputy Head of St Mary’s School, Following her undergraduate has been instrumental in Executive of the Ascot in 2000 and Head of studies at the University of Exeter times of radical and successful Mill Hill School Heathfield School in 2003. She and her Postgraduate Certificate transformation, including the Foundation and joined Roedean School as Head in in Education from the University introduction of girls to the Head of Mill Hill 2008. Mrs King holds a BA (Hons) in Theology from the University of of , Miss Dunn began her school throughout all year School, London. career as a Biology teacher at groups. Oxford, a PGCE from the Institute Mrs King was previously of Education, an MA in Philosophy Richard Brown Housemaster at Pangbourne Principal of Collège Alpin Beau and Religion from Heythrop has been College and an English teacher at Soleil, a coeducational school College, University of London and appointed Head the Edinburgh Academy. in Switzerland. She began her an MBA in School Management of Handcross Educated at Magdalen College career in 1984 and has taught at from the University of Hull. Park Prep School, Oxford. Richard graduated Sherborne at , where he was School, Sussex – in English Literature and Law from School, Dorset, Head of History and an Assistant a member of the Brighton College Oxford Brookes University. He also has a new Housemaster, before moving to family of schools. took an MA in English in Education Headmaster. Dr Worth School as Deputy Head. He Richard is currently Headmaster from Reading University and a Dominic Luckett became Headmaster of Mill Hill in of Dorset House School in West PGCE in English (Secondary) from joined Sherborne 2007. Sussex. He was previously a Roehampton Institute. from Mill Hill, North London, where He has published various articles on Felsted School, Simon has been Head at Chigwell he held the posts of Headmaster early Tudor history, is an inspector Essex, has since 2010, and before that he was and Chief Executive of the Mill Hill with the Independent Schools’ announced the Head of Rossall Junior School, in School Foundation which comprises Inspectorate, and a member of appointment Lancashire. He brings a wealth of the senior, prep, pre-prep and the Council of the University of of a new Head experience in a variety of different international schools. Leicester, the university’s governing for Felsted educational environments, as well Dr Luckett was educated at the body. His interests include Preparatory School, to succeed Mrs as a strong connection to Felsted. University of Leicester, where he paragliding, skiing and hill-walking. Jenny Burrett. Mr Simon James, Simon’s wife, Jill, is currently a obtained a first class honours Dominic is married to Cara, a the current Head of Chigwell Junior teacher at Felsted Preparatory degree in History, and at Magdalen barrister specialising in clinical School, has been selected to lead School, and his younger daughter College, Oxford, where he negligence cases, and they have Felsted Preparatory School in the is a pupil there. His older daughter completed his doctorate on Henry two young daughters, Charlotte (7) next stage of its development. will join Felsted in Year 10. VII. He then taught for eleven years and Jemima (2).

10 Independent Schools Magazine The Governors Sixth Form Conference. Before Guy Canning, becoming Head of Wolverhampton of Woldingham moving into Senior Management, Headmaster of Grammar Junior School in 2011, School, Alex was Head of Science at St Warwick Junior Mr Hymer was for nine years the Surrey, have Mary’s School, Ascot, where she School will be Deputy Head of King’s Hawford announced the taught for six years. retiring in the School, Worcester. Previous posts appointment summer after included seven years at RGS Alex was educated at Wisbech of Mrs Alexandra Hutchinson 12 years, and Mr Andrew Hymer, Worcester, four years at a middle Grammar School and gained MA (Oxon) to the position who is currently the Headmaster at school in Warwick and three years a degree in Chemistry from of Headmistress, with effect Wolverhampton Grammar Junior at Ashville College, Harrogate. Oxford University. During from September 2016, on the School, has been appointed as his Before embarking on his teaching her time at Oxford, she was retirement of Mrs Jayne Triffitt successor. Mr Hymer (pictured) career, he was also, briefly, a awarded an Open Exhibition MA (Oxon). Alex has been Deputy has taught in five schools. Prior to policeman in South Yorkshire. Head at Woldingham since as well as four Hockey Blues January 2015. and two Cricket Half Blues. She began her teaching career Barrow Hills (independent co-educational Alex has many years of academic at Clifton College, where she School, Surrey, Nursery and Junior School / girls’ and pastoral experience, gained Senior School) and Deputy Head met her husband Chris, who is has appointed at leading girls’ schools, both day a new Head, (Academic) at Mayfield School in Headmaster of Royal Russell and boarding. Prior to joining effective from East Sussex (independent Catholic Woldingham, Alex was Head School in Croydon. Alex is a 1st September. boarding and day school for girls of Sixth Form at Wimbledon Catholic and her mother is an Mr Sean Skehan will take up the aged 11-18). High School. Previously, she Old Girl of Woldingham School. position following the current The new Head will take up was Head of Sixth Form at She continues to take an active Headmaster’s, Mr Matthew residence in the Head’s house with Central Newcastle High School interest in sport, playing for Unsworth, family emigration to his his wife Eva and their daughter in and chaired the HMC/GSA a local hockey team, and also wife’s homeland Australia, at the the summer of 2016, although Mr Independent Schools’ Heads of enjoys choral society singing. end of last term. Skehan will be regularly attending Mr Skehan, a committed Roman key events at Barrow Hills in the Beechwood Beechwood celebrated its Centenary Catholic has been in the education run up to his official tenure. Sacred Heart in 2015 and Patrick aims to sector for the last 25 years, most In the interim, the School will be School, , has build on its history to secure recently working as a Head at led by the current Deputy Head a new Head for opportunities for the students to St Andrew’sIndependent School in Schools Bedford May 14 135x90.pdf(Pastoral) 1 13/05/2014 Mr Paul 09:12:15 Crisell. its Preparatory discover who they are and what School. Mr they can do as well as providing Patrick Gush was formerly Deputy the essential academic rigour that Head of Bickley Park Prep School. parents expect.

Ms Helen Pike Warwick in England, Helen went is to succeed on to teach at several leading Dr Tim Hands independent schools: Westminster as Master of School (1998), City of London Magdalen School for Boys (1998-2003), St College School, Paul’s Boys, Barnes (Head of Politics, Oxford from September 2016. 2003-2009) and The Royal Grammar

Ms Pike has spent three years as School, Guildford (Director of C Studies, 2009-13). Head of South Hampstead High M School, London where she has Helen writes historical and political Y overseen a two-year £35 million fiction and is a regular contributor CM major building project. to various newspapers and journals; Helen grew up in Preston, she is a long-distance runner and MY Lancashire, where she was educated is interested in music, cooking andCY at local schools, before studying travelling. Her partner is ProfessorCMY Modern History at Christ Church, George Garnett, currently Senior K Oxford, and then Modern European Proctor of the University of Oxford, History at the University of Michigan and she has three step-children, in the USA. After lecturing in two of whom have been educated Michigan and at the University of at MCS. New head at your school? Please let us have a brief biog and image for inclusion in a future issue. There is no charge. We’ll add them to our complimentary-copy mailing list too.

Independent Schools Magazine 11 What a night! , , teachers took to the accomplishment and relief when it was over.

stage last month (December) to wow an audience Great camaraderie with other contestants.” Competition winners Regina Engel-Hart of pupils, fellow staff and friends with electrifying The judges (one of whom was Abingdon School (Modern Languages) and John Davies (English). dance routines that they had been practising for Head, Miss Felicity Lusk) awarded scores, Strictly- weeks. Competing for the title of “Teachers Come style, and the cheers from the audience were Dancing Champions 2015” were Olly Deasy and also taken into account. The winners, with an Emily O’Doherty, Victoria Pradas and Andrew Hall, impressive 49 points and a huge cheer, were Victoria Griffiths and Nick Fieldhouse and Regina Regina Engel-Hart and John Davies. Engel-Hart and John Davies. The audience was also entertained by guest Victoria Griffiths, who teaches Physics at dancers “Pulse”, Nezete Onen, Rob Jeffreys and Abingdon said, “It was hard work but fun Tamsin Howells. learning the routine - totally terrifying stepping The evening raised approximately £1000 for Blue Victoria Griffiths (Physics) and out onto stage but a fabulous feeling of Skye Thinking. Nick Fieldhouse (Economics). Time, Talk & Trust The Association of Teachers and Lecturers (ATL) annual Independent Schools Conference was held in London and was attended by over 100 ATL independent school reps, writes John Richardson, ATL’s National Officer for the sector...

Proceedings opened with a warm Although, ATL members Mary gave an overview of the the plenary session ably led by welcome from ATL President Kim collectively and in partnership national ATL workload campaign Graham Easterlow and Margaret Knappett. Kim was enthused by with others are up to the about to go live, in addition to Boyle, members of IPSAG. her previous attendance at the challenge! existing bespoke materials such Mark Wright, assistant director conference by how much she had Amongst other things, Mary as the ATL Work-life balance of AMiE, further developed the learnt from members. The themes congratulated the lead given toolkit for teachers working in the theme of well-being by looking for her presidential year of Time, by the independent sector in independent sector. at what ATL members can do to Talk and Trust and her criticism of opposing the qualification John Baugh, head of the Dragon “busy non-work” chimed a chord reforms, including de-coupling AS School, Oxford, gave a keynote try to ensure a healthy workplace. with many in the hall. and A levels. A position supported speech on Staff and pupil well- “Good introduction and useful Helen Porter, chair of ATL’s by ATL and the CBI! Many in the being which chimed with many. assessment form to audit own elected Independent & Private sector had also warned against In an understated but forceful school” and “Eye-opening” was Sector Advisory Group, presented the abolition of course work and delivery, John passionately argued some of the member feedback. teacher assessment in favour of the headlines of the ATL’s that now, more than ever, we Janet Clark, ATL education unique and authoritative 2015 “cliff-edge” exams. need to put the soul back into policy adviser, looked at another Independent Sector Pay & Of particular member concern is school. We need to put the health source of stress, the risk of Conditions Survey of over 1,200 unreasonable workload demands. and well-being of the pupils and criminalisation for failing to meet members from the sector. Once Mary highlighted that members staff above all else. Amongst other obligations under the Prevent again the survey revealed that increasingly do not have time to things, he advocated teaching how independent schools are talk, to relax, enjoy family life and empathy and compassion and Duty. faring following the economic pursue hobbies or in other words living in the moment. Lucinda Lidstone, and Vicky downturn largely depends on “to be human”. John shared the journey that Neagen, psychotherapists and location. Mary informed delegates that the Dragon had been on, giving trainers, looked at the pupil ATL General Secretary Mary that her recent TES column on delegates many practical tips as to perspective of adolescent mental Bousted then took the podium to workload, had garnered the most how issues might be approached health. Members enthusiastically deliver her authoritative overview reader feedback ever received by in their schools. “Inspirational” discussed recognising signs of of current educational issues, the TES! and “Excellent & thought mental stress in pupils and the described by one delegate as, provoking” were just two of the Excessive workload is also practical steps that can be taken. “Insightful, entertaining and many appreciative comments. jeopardising the future of the “Good introduction but left unfortunately, worrying!” profession. Schools are facing As always, members appreciated wanting more!” Mary emphasised that teaching an impending recruitment and the opportunity to network is the best job in the world. retention crisis with many new with colleagues from other As one member commented, “Lots However, teachers, support teachers staying less than 5 years. independent schools. There was of stimulating ideas which I am staff and the profession itself, But, the point is not to identify also the opportunity to raise looking forward to discussing with are facing considerable threats. the problem, but to address it. issues for “The Big Questions” colleagues back in school”.

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AON09561- FPNAT70 Ind Schools Tree Media AdV2.indd 1 02/12/2014 16:12 Chemistry brought to life Two events held at the end of the last term served to give pupils a taste of excitement in Chemistry, and to encourage the take-up of the science.... Vibrant day for 17 schools Hundreds of young people from all Day will prove to be the first of over Kent took part in a Chemistry many such events.” extravaganza at . Speakers on the day included Dr At its first Chemistry at Work Day, Jonathan Hare, a well-known Benenden hosted more than 400 TV presenter on Science and a students from 17 of the county’s contributor to the team that won schools. the 1996 Nobel Prize for Chemistry. Run in conjunction with the Royal Other experts in their field included Society of Chemistry, Chemistry at lecturers from Imperial College Work events aim to inspire students London, Keele University and to appreciate the relevance and Bristol University. Professionals societal importance of Chemistry, from Vauxhall Motors, QinetiQ and and consider studying Chemistry at the Society of Cosmetic Chemists university. Events enable students provided an insight in the applied and teachers to interact with world of Chemistry. practicing Chemical scientists and The programme consisted of a organisations in their local area. range of workshops, lectures and manufacture of new smart materials misconceptions that Chemistry Schools that attended Benenden on interactive presentations which to the food we eat, to the medicines should only be an A Level choice if included: the day included Cranbrook School, which keep us healthy, and from you want to be a medic.” John Wallis Academy, Chatham • The science of art forgeries the quality of the water we drink to Chrissie Maitland, education co- Grammar School for Girls, Tonbridge • Commercial painting of vehicles keeping the air we breathe pure. ordinator at The Royal Society of School and Tunbridge Wells • Rocket science “The chemical and allied Chemistry, said: “These are fantastic Grammar School for Boys. • Pyrotechnics industries - fuels, pharmaceuticals, opportunities for young people to Benenden School Headmistress • Insect communication fragrances - are the most important experience hands-on science and to Samantha Price said: “We are proud manufacturing industries to the UK • Forensic science talk to practicing scientists about the to have hosted the first Chemistry economy. These industries employ • The application of nanotechnology world of work. It’s interventions like at Work Day at Benenden in large numbers. Studying for a degree this that can make a huge impact on association with the Royal Society of • The chemistry of cosmetics and in Chemistry is also ideal for a a child’s career aspirations. Chemistry. perfumes career in areas not directly related to “We are fortunate to have some • The carbon revolution chemical sciences such as banking, “At the Royal Society of Chemistry, wonderful Science facilities at • Environmental chemistry. business and Law. we fund events like this across the Benenden and were delighted to Benenden Chemistry outreach co- “Hopefully our Chemistry at Work country - and it’s always great share them with students from ordinator Susan Harris organised the event has opened young people’s to see the local enthusiasm from other schools. We all have a shared day. She said: “Chemistry is a vibrant eyes to the exciting and rewarding businesses, not to mention the enthusiasm for Science and I hope and exciting subject. It is involved career options that Chemistry joy that both the children and the that yesterday’s Chemistry at Work in everything we do, from the offers and dispel the stereotypical scientists get from taking part.” An explosive experience Scores of pupils from preparatory, about the Chemistry of Fragrances Many of the students watched primary and senior schools and Miss Abi Coveney speaking in awe, as the demonstrations enjoyed a day of explosive science on Nanochemistry: Sugars, drugs investigated the chemistry demonstrations and fascinating and nanoholes, both from the behind the gases we breathe, lectures as they joined the girls at University of Bristol, and Mr Nick the conversions between states Cheltenham Ladies’ College for a Barker from the University of of matter, and what is and is Chemistry Conference. Warwick, giving a talk entitled not a chemical reaction, as well Give Me Strength, about the To begin the conference, GCSE and as looking at fire and how man chemistry of energy sources. Sixth Form pupils from CLC and has manipulated it to his own The afternoon saw pupils from surrounding schools, were invited advantage, with some explosive primary and preparatory schools, listen to talks sponsored by the results. including students from Hopelands, Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), Berkhampstead, Airthrie, Matt Gill, Head of Chemistry at not only about the curriculum but Manor and Dormer House, Cheltenham Ladies’ College, said: also exciting new developments in attend an explosive Chemistry “The conference provided an science and research. demonstration Gases of the Air inspiring opportunity for students The guest speakers included top from scientist and RSC Teacher from across the region to learn scientists, Mr Tim Harrison, talking Fellow Mr Tim Harrison. about some cutting edge Chemistry.”

14 Independent Schools Magazine Advertorial Feature When walking increases our problems decrease

Walking is a fun and accessible Joe Irvin, Living Streets’ Chief thousands of families to walk each and assemblies to further learning way to get children active, with Executive says: “We find that most year. Schools can take part in our within the classroom. knock on benefits for children’s week and year-long schemes: Walk children enjoy walking to and from Walk to School Week health and wellbeing, amongst school. It’s also an easy way to fit to School Week and Walk once a Walk to School Week takes place many other positives such as some valuable exercise into their Week (WoW). These initiatives are during Living Streets’ National reduced congestion on the roads. day and teachers tell us that active proven to significantly increase Walking Month each May. Today, the vast majority of children are more alert in class. walking rates, creating safer streets The challenge is a great way children fail to meet the and happier, healthier pupils. “Our message is - let’s encourage to celebrate walking and can recommended 60 minutes of our children to keep active Walk once a Week (WoW) be a stepping stone to year- daily exercise. By swapping and make walking, wherever WoW rewards children who walk round activity. Last year, over four wheels for two feet on the to school at least once a week practicable, the natural choice for 14,000 classes took part; that’s journey to school we can start to with monthly collectable badges, getting to school.” approximately 400,000 children tackle this problem. which are designed by pupils in an Walk to school walking to school. This year Walk Walking to school makes children annual design competition. with Living Streets to School Week will run from 16 more alert and ready to learn, The scheme is supported by Travel At Living Streets, the UK charity – 22 May. helping them do better in tests Tracker, our innovative interactive for everyday walking, we believe and achieve better results. online monitoring tool, and Join our campaign that a walking nation means Motivating children to walk our Walk to School app which Take part in something great. from an early age also helps to progress for everyone. brings each month’s badge to life Together we can make a lasting establish healthy habits, with a Living Streets’ Walk to School using 3D content. The scheme is difference to our children, our long term impact on preventing campaign has been going for further supported with monthly local environment and our wider illness in later life. over 20 years and encourages curriculum-linked lesson plans community.

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Independent Schools Magazine 15 GSA Annual Conference Are you wearing your lucky pants? A review of the 2015 Girls’ Schools Association Annual Conference by Mike Farmer, head of St Teresa’s, Effingham, Surrey; chair of the Boarding Schools Association; and the GSA Boarding Committee.

The GSA Annual Conference rousing and passionate. In thirty more often, looked at how we can at school, but the GSA Annual is one of those points in the short minutes, he managed to encourage the girls in our schools Conference goes way beyond calendar I anticipate with much plug us into the inspirational to aspire that little bit higher in training. For me, some of the expectation and a sense of real roots of the UK girls’ education life and career. With research fresh most valuable insights come movement and remind us of the from the University of Oxford excitement. However, even I from the in-between times, those wasn’t quite ready for the lucky tremendous achievements of that sixth form girls, like bright moments chatting with other pants that happiness guru Andy current GSA schools – our girls female graduates, tend to under heads as you digest the previous Cope exhorted us to wear at this make up around 13 per cent pitch themselves and aim for work presentation and wait for the year’s event. Nevertheless, I have of the UK’s entries in A Level roles that don’t quite reflect their next speaker to begin or as you embraced the sentiment, if not physics but are awarded around capabilities, there was plenty of the actual garment, and am still 25 per cent of all the country’s thinking about what to do about share a late night drink at the smiling, A star grades - whilst focussing this in our own schools. We had hotel bar. It’s hugely beneficial clearly on the job to be done lots of useful and motivating When you get to be a head, to be able to share problems now and tomorrow for girls and information from women who there aren’t many opportunities and best practice away from the their careers in the 21st century. have gone the extra mile in their to share ideas and experiences routine of school. At one point, with a photograph careers, too, with presentations with your peers in a relaxed of student Fairooz up on the big from senior women in IBM and This year, faced with so much environment free from scrutiny screen, Alun gave us a powerful PricewaterhouseCoopers, former challenging information but this is one of them, and the example of the impact a 100% IBM director Karen Parker, Dr Jane about girls’ attitudes towards 2015 GSA conference at Celtic bursary can make and I felt Chanaa from the University of themselves and their careers, and Manor in the Usk Valley was no keenly the privileged position Oxford Careers Service, one of the a clear call to action for us to do exception. As usual, there was heads are in when deciding which few women orchestral conductors something about it, I came away a great atmosphere, a sense of girls get those coveted places. in the UK – Alice Farnham – and with the distinct sense that we collegiality and openness that It was also refreshing to see the a highly stimulating discussion heads don’t own our schools, we is one of the abiding strengths first male president of the GSA between 30% Club member and of being a member of the Girls’ beat the drum loudly for girls’ investment banker Elizabeth simply run them. More than that, Schools Association, and plenty education. Passey and High Court judge we have an obligation to share of opportunities to share ideas. With a conference theme of Dame Vivien Rose. what works for the good of our Outgoing president Alun Jones ‘Reach Further’, each speaker Of course, there are aspects of schools and all the pupils who opened the proceedings and either provoked us, as heads, to conference that I discuss and pass through them. Roll on the what an opening it was; brilliant, consider how we do things or, disseminate with my team back 2016 GSA Annual Conference! Frequency of regulatory change in schools is ‘untenable’ Alun Jones, President, told “Of course I completely agree that introduced during the summer These government regulations the GSA Conference that a we must have robust legislation holidays, when schools are dictate what schools must do better, more effective system that keeps children safe and gives closed, that we must implement and can cover not just the of regulation for all schools is everyone clear guidance about immediately. curriculum, but ways that schools can keep children safe, safeguard urgently needed.. how to do that. “We need time to understand for FGM, or prevent children “Schools are being inundated by “But the sheer volume of the changes and put them into being drawn into radicalisation, new and revised regulations often regulatory change - plus revision practice. Schools may be inspected as well as changes to the laws at the busiest times of the school upon revision, sometimes only on these before they have even around data protection, Tier 4 year. It is incredible that those weeks later - is untenable for had time to train staff to carry visas for international students, who regulate schools seem to both independent and state sector them out. disqualification of teachers by have little understanding of how schools alike. “The impact on workloads has association and a raft of consumer schools work. “Not only were schools preparing been massive and the increased legislation”. “The amount of regulation that for and then implementing, in stress amongst staff is worrying; Alun Jones is also Principal of St schools are subject to has grown September, the first reformed schools are trying to implement Gabriel’s School, Berkshire. He is exponentially and is coming at examination subjects, but we were new regulations at the very point succeeded as President by Caroline schools faster and ever more also confronted with changes in the school year when they Jordan, head of Headington frequently. that the Department of Education should be focused on teaching.” School, Oxfordshire.

16 Independent Schools Magazine My child has dyslexia. How do I find the right school? A question often asked of school leaders by anxious parents. Brendan Wignall, Headmaster of Ellesmere College and Chair of CReSTeD gives some advice on what to say.

The Council for Registration of schools to ensure they meet the The categories: access the curriculum; where there is an effective system of identifying Schools Teaching Dyslexic Pupils basic criteria set by the Council. Dyslexia Specialist Provision dyslexic (SpLD) pupils; where (CReSTeD) is a charity set up to Schools are then revisited every Schools – DSP there is a withdrawal system for provide guidance and assurance three years to ensure the criteria are The school is established primarily to individualised literacy support. to parents seeking a school for maintained. teach pupils with dyslexia. their child with specific learning Teaching Centres – TC Dyslexia Unit – DU difficulties (SpLD) – of these Which school should I choose? These are designated Centres The school has a designated unit or the main difficulty is dyslexia. The levels of provision at schools are providing specialist tuition on a centre providing specialist tuition CReSTeD works with support divided into six broad categories. small group or individual basis, on a small-group or individual basis, These categories are not a according to need. Support is from British Dyslexia Association, according to need. Dyslexia Action, Dyslexia-SpLD hierarchical grading of the quality of provided outside of the school Specialist Provision Schools – SPS Trust and the Helen Arkell Dyslexia provision – they are there because environment. The school is established to teach Centre and is the key reference children have different needs and CReSTeD was founded to help pupils with dyslexia (SpLD) and point and a symbol of quality the categories go some way towards parents. It has had and will continue other associated difficulties. when seeking a school with SpLD matching the level of the pupil’s to have influence on the standards provision. needs to the level of provision Withdrawal System – WS of provision for SpLD pupils. Schools where dyslexic (SpLD) pupils CReSTeD acts as a source of school at the school. An educational are withdrawn from appropriately Brendan Wignall has been Headmaster names parents can use as their first psychologist’s report should offer selected lessons for specialist tuition of Ellesmere College since 1996 and step towards making a placement guidance as to the level of provision is currently Chair of CReSTeD. After from a teacher with a nationally decision, which will be critical to relevant to the child. teaching English at Oakham and Christ’s recognised qualification in teaching Hospital, he became Head of English their child’s educational future and As an example, a child at the severe dyslexic pupils. and Registrar of . His is a valuable resource for parents, end of the dyslexia spectrum will main interests are his family, Ellesmere, Maintained Sector – MS educational advisers and schools. probably require a Category SPS Liverpool FC, gardening and culture Maintained schools where the school school, whereas a child with, say, only in the broadest sense (excluding only The CReSTeD Register covers all supports dyslexic (SpLD) pupils to country music!). levels of provision for Dyslexic some lag in spelling skills may be (SpLD) pupils. There are several lists suitably provided for in a school from of schools offering such provision, Category WS. The categories enable but only CReSTeD actually visits CReSTeD to offer this guidance.

Further information For more information about CReSTeD or for a copy of the Register: Email: [email protected] Website: www.crested.org.uk

Course for SEND co-ordinators A course entitled ‘SEND: during inspection and in the classroom’ is to be run by the Independent Schools Association on Tuesday April 19th. It is aimed at SEND Co-ordinators, and will cover a range of tools and strategies to address the key SEND issues of identification and classification, monitoring, support and tracking evidence of progress. Within the programme, there are opportunities aimed at networking and sharing good practice with other delegates. Programme includes: • The role of the SENCO in supporting children, their parents and training staff. • Admissions • Who is in your classrooms and how to help the teachers • “It’s all down to language”: Strategies to identify and support children whose language issues are impinging on their literacy. Ways of improving their educational outcomes. • Social communication: “Is he Aspergic?” • Strategies for the classroom and for homework. • Preparing for inspection: Ongoing record keeping and monitoring progress. Impact of recent legislation.

Bookings and further details: www.isaschools.org.uk/events/send-during-inspection

Special Needs 17 Royal day to remember

Pupils and staff at Bolton School, the wide variety of activities that School Foundation formally came in the local community; something Lancashire, were delighted to pupils can become involved in as into existence. which Lord Leverhulme instilled in welcome Prince Edward, Earl they develop their independence The School’s Head of Community our ethos when he founded The of Wessex, in the Foundation’s and team-working skills.” Action, Mrs Sophie Entwistle, Bolton School Foundation one Centenary Year to learn more Fellow Duke of Edinburgh summed up the visit, saying, “It hundred years ago. It is important about the School’s Duke of Coordinator Mr Richard Kellet said: has been a fantastic morning and that our students, who enjoy such Edinburgh and volunteering work. “The Prince’s visit means a lot we were delighted to tell the Earl great teachers and resources here, His arrival was given a warm and will help inspire pupils to go of Wessex how we are carrying on understand how and what they welcome by pupils from all areas beyond the Bronze Award and to the tradition of our pupils working can give back to society.” of the School waving Union Jack step outside of their comfort zone flags. His Royal Highness The by undertaking the significant Earl of Wessex was received by challenges of the Silver and Gold the Lord-Lieutenant of Greater Awards. We have just introduced Manchester, Mr Warren J Smith a coast to coast bicycle challenge and The Clerk to the Lieutenancy, as part of the Silver Award where Canon Paul Denby, and despite pupils have to plan their routes, the drizzle made time to speak their kit and accommodation and to several children on his way to then complete the trip.” the Arts Centre. There the Lord After meeting with Duke of Lieutenant introduced Prince Edinburgh participants, Prince Edward to The High Sheriff of Edward was taken through to Greater Manchester, The Mayor the Arts Centre. There he was of Bolton Councillor Carole introduced to School Captain Swarbrick, and to the Headmistress Chris Pantelides, Head Girl Sarah of the Girls’ Division, Sue Hincks, Ibberson, and eight other students the Headmaster of the Boys’ from the Senior Schools. He was Division, Philip Britton, and the able to speak briefly to each pupil Chairman of Governors, Michael about their chosen voluntary Griffiths. Heads speak to Prince Edward in the Sports Hall. Left to right, Girls’ Division Headmistress Sue work before settling down to Hincks, Prince Edward, Michael Griffiths (Chair of Governors) slightly behind, and Boys’ Division Miss Hincks guided the Prince listen to Alexandra Hopkinson Headmaster Philip Britton. around a Duke of Edinburgh and Sam Hassall, who gave display in the Sports Hall, where short presentations about their he spoke with pupils about their efforts helping out in the local adventures and took an interest community. Each year, students at in each group’s plans for gaining Bolton School offer over 10,000 their Bronze, Silver or Gold level hours of voluntary work, and this awards. gave him an idea of the wide Duke of Edinburgh Coordinator range of activities and areas in Mrs Sarah Waters said: “We have which pupils make a difference. a big Duke of Edinburgh tradition Mr Griffiths took the podium to at our school and I was delighted thank Prince Edward for his visit for the pupils that met the Earl during the Centenary Year, and of Wessex as they put so much explained a little more about the effort into their volunteering, School and the debt it owes to developing skills, undertaking Lord Leverhulme. He then invited physical activities and this was a the Prince to unveil a plaque great reward for them. I think the commemorating his visit one enduring appeal of the Award is hundred years after the Bolton A warm welcome.

Bolton School has officially launched its centenary book, The Best of Both Worlds: A Portrait of Bolton School. This book looks at the School’s past, particularly focusing on the last 100 years but with reference to the earlier history. It is full of archive and contemporary photos, pupil and teacher memories, and historical facts which have surprised and fascinated even those who thought they knew a lot about the School.

Pictured at the launch event: Left to right - Philip Britton (Boys’ Division Headmaster), Neil Titman (Publishing Director at Profile Books), Deborah Coleman (editor), Michael Griffiths (Chair of Governors) and Sue Hincks (Girls’ Division Headmistress) with a copy of The Best of Both Worlds: A Portrait of Bolton School at the launch.

18 Independent Schools Magazine Cambridge qualifications are recognised around the globe. Cambridge Pre-U explores subjects in breadth and depth, bridging the gap between school and university learning. Our tried and tested syllabuses are supported by a strong range of teaching resources, six years of past papers and robust examiner feedback. Cambridge International AS & A Level is available to UK independent schools. It is a flexible qualification with AS Level counting towards A Level. Both are recognised by universities worldwide.

If you’re reviewing your post-16 curriculum, now is the time to find out more. Visit www.cie.org.uk/cambridgeadvanced

Image: detail of the international time zones of a wristwatch. Mindfulness and Well-being The Special Feature on Mental Health issues in the last ISM* generated much feedback. Amongst it came the news that has started teaching ‘Mindfulness and Well-being’ within the curriculum.

At a time when mental health mindfulness in their lunch breaks be experienced again. Mindfulness • One in ten children aged challenges amongst young for the past two years and have helps us to be aware of the ‘now’ by between 5 and 16 years has a given very positive feedback, citing people in schools are greater than focussing on what we feel in each clinically diagnosable mental ever, Warwick School is putting improved concentration, better instant as it passes by. It brings us health problem. mindfulness into the curriculum. memory, better sleep and better into the present.” • 20% of teenagers, aged 13- Mindfulness courses for Sixth Form crisis management, as some of the The modern school pupil faces 18 live with a mental health and for staff have been offered positive outcomes. condition. for the past two years and now many pressures - to meet the Pupils are taught a simple technique all pupils in Year 10 will have the expectations of their parents, to • At any one time, around to focus attention on their breathing 1.2–1.3 million children will opportunity to learn the skills of perform academically, to be sporting which enables them to take control have a diagnosable mental mindfulness. This is part of a wider or musical, and particularly to fit of their wandering or worrying health disorder. programme in which the school into the world of his or her peers. minds. They are taught “beditation” is taking a more preventative The teaching of Mindfulness is part • Warwick School uses the - more commonly called a body scan approach trying to build resilience of a wider programme of teaching Mindfulness in Schools - in which they learn to focus on the Project’s (MiSP) .b course and good mental health in pupils, Personal Well-being. Pupils in inner sensations they feel as a means which is specifically aimed protecting against the many years 7 and 8 at Warwick School to help them to sleep better. The at introducing Mindfulness challenges today’s young people are learning about the benefits of school is using a course designed by to teenagers in schools and face. This initiative which Warwick optimism, understanding character ‘Mindfulness in Schools’ called ‘.b’ designed to encourage and School has taken, fell at the same strengths and other positive mental (dot-be) meaning Stop and Be. This support the flourishing of time as the Government released its attitudes. Through this programme course is also a basis for ongoing young minds. The Project, final report, with recommendations Warwick hopes to make their pupils active research into the benefits of a non-profit organisation for how mindfulness training could more resilient in their lives and grow mindfulness amongst children and whose aim is to encourage, help within education, as well as into happy, mature young men. teenagers. support and research other sectors. the teaching of secular Revd. Martin Hewitt, teacher of Gus Lock, Head Master of Warwick There is extensive scientific evidence mindfulness in schools. Religion and Philosophy at Warwick School said, “There can be nothing that mindfulness practice can foster • 4 qualified Mindfulness School, who leads the Mindfulness more important than the well- habits that promote a better quality teachers work at Warwick programme says, “People spend a being of our pupils, both in body of life and provide tools for the School. lot of time worrying about things and mind and, at a time when better management of the stresses • Mindfulness is introduced that are in the past, wondering there are unprecedented concerns and pressures of modern living. It as part of the Year 10 if we could or should have done nationally, we must do all we can has been shown that mindfulness curriculum alongside a something differently, and spending to support the mental health of practice can improve behaviour, course in Well-being for a lot of time anticipating and our children. Our boys and staff learning, emotional literacy and raise Years 7 and 8. sometimes fearing the future. As a have engaged really enthusiastically self-esteem. • Mindfulness techniques help result we miss what is happening with Mindfulness, one of many build confidence, well-being Sixth Formers at Warwick School in this moment - the joy of this things we are doing to help in this and focus, enabling all pupils have had the opportunity to study fleeting moment that can never important area.” to flourish. *still available online at www.independentschoolsmagazine.co.uk New ‘Guinness World Records’ title Wycombe Abbey, for the ‘Most people playing from One Can Trust and the Buckinghamshire set a new Monopoly in a single venue’ last British Legion acted as external Guinness World Records title month (December). witnesses.

585 students and staff gathered All Monopoly boards used in for the occasion and played 84 the event were personalised separate games of Monopoly to Wycombe Abbey Monopoly sets break the record previously held by and will be sold in the School NC State University Housing (USA). Shop as the games that were used in the successful Guinness The event was adjudicated by World Records attempt. an official representative from Guinness World Records who Headmistress Rhiannon Wilkinson validated the successful attempt said ‘I am delighted by our and presented the School with success and what a joyful way to Picture courtesy Wycombe Abbey shows: a certificate. The Mayor of High end the term. I hope it will be a Fortuna Melham (Adjudicator from Wycombe also attended to very long time until anyone else Guinness World Records), Rhiannon Wilkinson (Headmistress) and Mr show his support and volunteers tries to break our record.’ Monopoly

20 Independent Schools Magazine MBE for head Ursuline Preparatory School, Warley, Mrs. Wilson joined the Ursuline Essex, head Pauline Wilson has Preparatory School as head teacher been made an MBE in the Queen’s in 1994 when it was under threat New Year’s Honours List for her of closure. She resigned her post services to education. as head teacher in a large state secondary comprehensive to The school which she founded work alongside the Trustees in an has featured in the Times Top 100 attempt to save the school. Prep Schools every year since its initiation, this year coming 19th in She has been an advocate of the the country. Ursuline Order since she became Pauline Wilson with staff and pupils of Ursuline Preparatory School Warley an Ursuline girl at age 11 and delighted that within 18 months the area all her life and currently her children, Kirsty and Nicholas, the school was full, was relocated resides in Ongar with her husband, continued the tradition by both being educated as Ursuline to its present house in Great Kevin, who is head teacher of pupils. She feels that the Catholic Ropers Lane, Warley and has the Catholic All Saints secondary education provides the best start in remained full since that date and school in Dagenham. any child’s life. each class has a long waiting list. She was absolutely delighted when When she joined the school, the The school is single form entry she received notification of her school had to be relocated to and there are nine classes with Honours and contacted the Cabinet another building and had been a maximum of 20 pupils in each Office to ensure that she was reduced to 58 pupils. She was class. Mrs. Wilson has lived in indeed the recipient! Pauline Wilson Advertorial Feature Brysdales’ new website goes live Brysdales, one of the UK’s leading providers of shelving and storage solutions to the education sector, has launched a new website as part of its continuing investment strategy. The website, www.brysdales.co.uk, Elizabeth Porter, Managing is packed with product information, Director at Brysdales, said: “We inspirational case studies and are experiencing a period of huge guidance. growth here at Brysdales and this new website is the latest exciting There is a full breakdown of development. the company’s accreditations and memberships to notable “Brysdales has been providing industry bodies including innovative, quality storage solutions the Storage Equipment to a huge range of varied sectors Manufacturers Association for more than 40 years and we (SEMA), SEMA Distributor Group, work hard to continuously improve Storage Equipment Installers our products and services, including Registration Scheme (SEIRS) and how customers and potential and partitioning, mezzanines, and intelligent solutions that are right SAFEcontractor. customers engage with us. material handling equipment. for your business. It also includes product information “The website is phase one of a fully Brysdales is one of a select number Brysdales also offers SEMA on the huge range of racking, integrated digital strategy that we of companies that are members approved rack inspections carried shelving, archive storage solutions have been working on and I am of the SEMA Distributor Group out by hand-picked and highly and partitioning, mezzanines, delighted with the results.” (SDG). This means that, as well experienced rack inspectors material handling equipment Brysdales was established in 1974 as supplying quality storage to ensure that the installation and associated ancillary products by Chairman, John A Green, in equipment and ancillary products, continues to work to its fullest available from Brysdales. Chorley, Lancashire. they are committed to delivering potential. With options to request a The hard work, expertise and the highest safety standards, As one of the UK’s leading Dexion catalogue, submit an enquiry, dedication of staff, past and work to stringent industry codes accredited specialists in the design meet the team, sign up to present, has transformed the of practice and are continuously and supply of pallet racking, with the e-newsletter and contact business from its humble regulated by random audits. over 40 years’ experience, the the company direct for more beginnings to one of the UK’s Customers can rely on Brysdales to company works with businesses to information and advice, the website leading providers of racking, improve your working environment, prevent damage and injury and help is a mine of useful information. shelving, archive storage solutions monitor compliance and deliver avoid any unnecessary repair costs.

Independent Schools Magazine 21 Unsung heroines – The new breed of cathedral choristers Passing tourists, lured into Ely’s glorious cathedral by the strains of Howell’s Worcester Service may be delighted by the sensitive interpretation offered by the young women in the choir stalls, but would be amazed if they knew what stern stuff the owners of these angelic voices are made of, says Sue Freestone, principal of King’s Ely. There have been boy choristers at commitments they find time and professionals and responding to candidates are asked to sing a solo the school for 1,000 years, and energy for recordings, TV and radio the expectations of inspirational piece of their own choosing. During when I became principal in 2004 I appearances and concerts in the musicians around them. They’re the audition, candidates are also was passionate that young women UK and overseas. The girls work onto their fourth CD and planning required to undertake vocal exercises should have the same opportunities hard and play hard, taking part in their next overseas trip to St to test range, technique and as their male counterparts. Ely as much sport and drama as they Petersburg. It will be interesting to maturity of voice, as well as sight Cathedral Girls’ Choir has become can manage alongside their hectic see whether they think the Summer and aural reading tests. the first and only choir in the UK to schedule of chorister duties and, of Palace matches up to Notre-Dame The choir has an international offer intensive, boarding chorister course, their academic studies. de Paris and Westminster Abbey as reputation and we have attracted experience to girls in the 13-18 age With so much a performance applications from France, Belgium, group and I’m hugely proud to have going on, our Jonathan Kingston, Director venue. Japan and Lithuania, as well as played a role in bringing that about. staff have to of Music at King’s Ely: Obviously, our across the UK. ensure the girls admissions The girls bring a different sound to “As well as performing and don’t burn out. procedure is cathedral worship. It’s not better, leading Cathedral and school We carefully necessarily it’s different. The boys have the worship as a separate entity, the bell-like purity of the treble voice monitor the tough. We want Girls’ Choir frequently combines whilst the girls produce a more activities of all to be sure any with boy choristers and rounded sound with more depth. our students girl we invite to professional lay-clerks as well as Occasionally, for big services, the because in join ECGC will with other willing members of boys and girls sing together and the a school like be equipped the school to form a tour-de- both to enjoy combination of those two sounds ours, with such a range force Chapel Choir of some 75 the experience can be breath-taking. of activities to singers. and to make a valuable choose from, “To have a large band of mixed Being a member of ECGC is a there is always contribution and well-integrated singers genuinely life-changing experience a risk that to the choir that are a bold spectacle as well which generates great loyalty students might as a whole. as noble and exciting in tone amongst its members. We frequently be tempted to Candidates means singing - and music for receive visits from our former over-commit. don’t need to that matter - publicises itself at choristers and take great pleasure in In the case of have previous reports of their continuing progress. ECGC there is so many whole school events. training, but, One of our ex-students is currently an extra layer The same is true of theatrical in addition studying at the Royal Northern of responsibility productions where a mixed cast to prepared College of Music and others receive which means adds great versatility to any pieces, they The girls board together in offers as choral scholars in Oxbridge we have to stage show. are given aural Etheldreda House, quite literally in colleges. Not all choristers will wish be even more tests and asked the shadow of the cathedral itself. “In spite of their already very to pursue higher studies in music, vigilant and to sing some As tough, confident young women, busy existence attending mid- or a musical career, but individuals tuned into the week evensong services and unprepared it’s fitting the name of their home capacity of each pieces. The with exceptional vocal skills and rehearsals, many a girl chorister pays homage to a powerful woman, individual, and head of vocal the ability to express those skills can be seen wielding a clarinet, founder of the monastic order, one or another studies is on sensitively within a choral setting violin, flute or trombone as former Fenland queen and Abbess of member of staff the look-out for may be eligible to become choral they seek to get the best from Ely, Saint Etheldreda. will be on duty flexibility and scholars at some of the most the vast range of musical We don’t just look for girls with throughout the a good vocal eminent universities worldwide, promising voices and a passion day to ensure opportunities available to them.” range. We take studying for the degree which most for music – they also need to have appropriate great pains to interests them while maintaining strength of mind, stamina and supervision at all times. ensure our interview process covers their expertise in choral performance. resilience. Their day typically begins Being a member of ECGC is a huge all aspects of the girls’ characters In recognition of their valuable around 07:00 and while the rest of commitment, but in exchange and actual and potential abilities, contribution to the school, choir the King’s Ely boarders are ambling for their singing our girls receive so they also have panel interviews members board at two-thirds of across to breakfast, the girl choristers first-class musical training and an and auditions, as well as the written the normal rate, and means-tested are making their way to the song outstanding all-round education. exams common to all entrants. bursaries further improve access. room. Once there, they will warm They learn to develop time- Auditions are held at King’s Ely in Entry is normally in Year 9, with up their voices and rehearse ahead management skills and personal late winter or early spring and it some places potentially available in of the weekly round of evensongs organisation, appreciation of is expected that most candidates other years, including sixth form. and weekend services as required responsibility and team-work, and will have choral singing experience The school also runs a special course and then it’s on to meet friends hone their higher thinking skills in a school, church or cathedral for sixth-formers of either gender and a full morning of lessons. In such as problem-solving, evaluation choir. The audition itself takes who are interested in becoming addition to Evensong and holy day and analysis through working as approximately 20 minutes and choral scholars.

22 Independent Schools Magazine Advertorial Feature Hoslitic approach to building benefits learning

With children often This is why Saint-Gobain has If the reverberation time in a with the addition of a target for spending more than 30 created a full set of criteria that classroom is over 0.5 seconds, relative humidity of 40-70% relative underpins the Multi-Comfort children seated beyond the first to a temperature of 20 degrees hours in school a week, it concept, giving design values that rows will not be able to distinguish centigrade. makes sense that students are achievable both individually, the high frequency sounds in Thermal comfort must not, however, and can all work together to human speech and will struggle to should learn in environments have a negative impact on indoor provide occupants with improved hear and learn properly. that benefit their comfort, air quality. In particular, research comfort, health and wellbeing. health and wellbeing, as well The Multi-Comfort standard has shown that some new build as concentration. The use of the Multi-Comfort achieves audio comfort, through components, such as building standard at The King’s School, acoustic sound insulation, finishes and paint, contain Volatile Saint-Gobain, the world leader Worcester, will ensure the building acoustic absorption, speech clarity, Organic Compounds (VOCs) which in the sustainable habitat and is sustainable, economic to run, and intelligibility and harmonious have been linked to asthma*. construction markets, has identified will provide a quiet, comfortable and resonance, while also exceeding Thermal insulation measures should five key elements that contribute healthy environment for students, noise regulation levels by +3dB. therefore be balanced with effective to our comfort levels indoors teachers and visitors, through the This can be achieved using the ventilation and purging strategies. in the Multi-Comfort building use of the right building materials latest building materials, which It is important to remember that standard; thermal comfort, audio and installation methods. provide sound insulation by having the five comforts of thermal, indoor comfort, visual comfort, indoor air The new development will be a low acoustic transmission, such as air, acoustic, visual and economic comfort and economic comfort. used as a multi-purpose sports windows and facades. comfort are all closely interlinked, Stacey Temprell, Residential Sector hall and drama facility, making In addition, innovative building which is why the Multi-Comfort Director at Saint-Gobain, explains audio comfort a central design materials may also contribute standard adopts a holistic approach how it is bringing its new building consideration. It is important to more than one comfort. For to building and design, in order to concept to life in the first Multi- that students can hear and be example, glass in windows can achieve optimum user comfort in Comfort school building. heard clearly in collaborative provide sound insulation as well as new builds. and performance spaces, as Many architects and developers visual comfort and thermal comfort. During the building’s operation, understand that user comfort research shows that noisy learning Insulating the building envelope Saint-Gobain will be working with relies on the interrelation between environments can have a negative reduces heat loss in winter and a team to implement a series of multiple elements, but without impact on communication. heat gain in summer by conducting monitoring systems that will collect an agreed standard to practically The ear is most sensitive to high through the envelope. It also reduces data, which will prove useful in combine these measures, it can be frequency noises, yet this is what surface condensation and the ‘cold demonstrating the improvements difficult to put theory into practice. makes the human voice clear. wall effect’ that can be experienced that both the teachers and pupils radiating from walls and windows. will experience within the Multi- Comfort building. Thermal comfort and energy For more information about Multi-Comfort efficiency go hand in hand. The and to follow the progress of The King’s Multi-Comfort standard for non- School, Worcester build, together with residential new build sets out Associated Architects and Speller Metcalfe, visit: www.multicomfort.co.uk/school-build four criteria for achieving thermal comfort, with heating and cooling To find out more about Saint-Gobain, visit energy demand, thermal bridging www.saint-gobain.co.uk, like the Facebook and overheating prevention levels page and tweet @SaintGobainUK all based on Passivhaus standards, *European Respiratory Review, Volatile organic compounds and risk of asthma and allergy: a systematic review, Ulugbek B. Nurmatov

Independent Schools Magazine 23 ProfileIn conversation with Corydon Lowde

Born: 1970 You served four years as Deputy You were Director of Pastoral Care Head at Box Hill School before as well as Head of Boarding at Schools and University Q being appointed Head. Looking Q Embley Park School, Hampshire Attended: back with the wisdom of hindsight, is there (now Hampshire Collegiate School) between , Frensham Heights, any preparation for the top job you wish you 2001 and 2008. Pastoral aspects of school had undertaken before stepping up to the life, especially relating to mental health care, University of Bath promotion? have been much in the news of late. Do you agree that such problems have become more First job: There is no doubt that nothing prevalent amongst young people in the last Kitchen porter and general quite prepares you for the job than ten years, and, if so, why do you think it actually doing it! The real preparation potato peeler, 1988 A is? Is it incumbent upon schools to provide is resilience, courage of one’s convictions, psychological counselling to identify and treat consistency, passion and vision. The rest can come First management job: mental illness amongst pupils at an early stage? Embley Park School, 2001 later. However, I was fortunate as Deputy to be part of an inclusive team which enabled me to sit I’m afraid that teenage mental First job in education: on Governing board meetings, sub-committees, health problems do seem to be The Cotswold School, 1993 and the like. My role was quite strategic and so I A more prevalent nowadays, probably did not experience too much of a ‘culture-shock’ because of the tsunami of technological input Appointed to current job: upon stepping up; I had already shouldered some which does not give anyone the ‘bliss of solitude’ 2014 of the weight of decision-making across the wider- that Wordsworth wrote about. It may also be school and community. My advice to all Deputies that young people are better at coming forward. I Favourite piece of music: (and their Headteachers) would be to try to be as passionately believe this is a problem that won’t be overcome unless we can redefine ‘success’ through Can I admit to Elvis Presley’s involved/inclusive in strategic decisions as possible, as this is the best CPD. community and fellowship rather than through catalogue here? Thank you individual competition. I use the phrase ‘Ubuntu’ at very much… It has been reported that Deputy Box Hill School – an African concept which loosely Heads are shying away from translates as ‘I am who I am because we are who becoming Heads through anxiety Favourite food: Q we are’. My mother’s turkey pie over workload, life balance, and ever-more- onerous responsibilities. Given your own Staying on the theme of mental Favourite drink: experience, can you offer any reassurance to health, you have a particular Assam tea with a hint of French Deputy Heads who may be grappling with such Q interest in the cognitive a dilemma? development of teenage brains, and have breakfast written for this magazine on the topic. What Rather like Winston Churchill, I conclusions have you drawn from your study Favourite holiday destination: can’t offer much more than blood, which have a relevance to education? Somewhere far from Box Hill! A toil, tears and sweat! If you seek a lesser workload, better life-balance, and lighter Without giving away the secrets of Favourite leisure pastime: responsibilities, you probably need to take a my talk which I deliver to parents of different career path. What I can say to mitigate Basketball pre-teens, I can probably sum up the this, however, is that Deputy Heads of course are A issue by stating; ‘You are their frontal lobe’! I make working hard already. Exchanging an increase in the point that teen brain development is a wave Favourite TV or radio responsibility with a commensurate increase in of re-wiring akin to the infant brain surge, but programme/series: control, and therefore the very real opportunity The Walking Dead to actually ‘steer the ship’ towards one’s own complicated by hormones. At the risk of over- philosophical values, is actually a move worth simplifying a very detailed topic, during this time, Suggested epitaph: making. I won’t however pretend that it is easy. the last section to come ‘on-line’ is the frontal cortex; the bit which deals with logic and reason, Have courage and be kind You have to become an expert at pretty much everything! planning and consequence. Understanding this

24 Independent Schools Magazine Corydon Lowde has been Headmaster of Box Hill School, Surrey, since 2014. He was previously Deputy Headmaster at Box Hill School and at the British School of Boston, USA.

and intervening in special controlled ways goes How does this global dimension impact on been your experience of the A-level exam and a long way to helping teachers and parents help how you run the school, and what benefits are marking system overall compared with the IB? their young people with study skills, learning, brought to pupils and staff? emotional control and accelerated maturity. The take up has been excellent, and It is absolutely intrinsic to everything indeed we have now a 6th form of You were British Karate Champion in that we do. Kurt Hahn, the founder A 130 students, which is a significant 1994, and pride yourself on physical A of Round Square, fled Nazi Germany section of our school. We want to be known for Q fitness. Is there a direct connection in the 30’s and established an educational vision the range of choices that we offer to students between physical and mental fitness? which prioritises independent, critical, moral and we also want to cater for all. Both curricula thinking as an antidote to political ideology. have much to offer and the debate between Absolutely. The positive chemical We are as committed to those ideals in the face which is best would require a whole article in effects of exercise are well of political tensions, news propaganda, and itself. My own son is doing A levels; my daughter documented in terms of feelings of A insidious technologies as we were 60 years ago did the IB. Much depends on the student’s own wellbeing, actual brain energy at the cellular level, and more. Being global citizens – and having 34 working style. In terms of marking, there are pros the stimulation of ideas, and optimism. I cannot different nationalities at school is proof of this and cons. I personally advocate a percentage stress its importance enough. culture – is vital. approach to exam results, but I fear I am a lone voice in the wilderness! If the government did You studied Modern Foreign Talking of internationalism, it away with entire grade bands, really poor results Languages at Bath University, and seems to be becoming fashionable would be exposed for all to see… Q still enjoy reading and writing Q for pupils to join expeditions to poetry in French. What has poetry added to remote corners of the world to ‘help’ build Your experience in education has your life, and have you any tips on how poetry schools. Critics have dismissed such trips as embraced not only the fee-paying can be presented to pupils in a relevant and self-indulgent and misguided, claiming that independent sector in England but appealing way? Q intermittent unskilled labour is rarely what’s also a comprehensive school in the Cotswolds needed in the third world, that air fare money Poetry is a form of art, and can bring and the British School of Boston. Which have would be better spent on funding permanent all that art can bring in terms of you found the most rewarding and why? teaching staff, and that plenty of adventure creative challenge, enjoyment, and A is available closer to home without the It is up to the individual to different perspectives. I was heavily influenced environmental impact of long-haul flights. Are understand their own motivation, into teaching by the film ‘Dead Poets Society’. I the critics correct? What’s your view on the and to realise that motivations still remember seeing the movie after driving A usefulness or otherwise of such expeditions? change. Because of this, I can say that each across the Berkshire mountains in Massachusetts sector has brought its own different rewards and during an electric storm in 1989, and can recall I wouldn’t argue that adventure challenges. However, as a boarder myself as a the profound effect it had on me as a very young is readily available close to home. child, and having worked as a housemaster and man. “We read and write poetry because we are However, I will always encourage a Head in boarding schools, I know that the 24/7 members of the human race. And the human race A international travel as a wonderful learning environment is the one that appeals to me most. is filled with passion. …Poetry, beauty, romance, experience, and service projects are of equal Probably because I see education as a vocation, love, these are what we stay alive for. ..The benefit to both helper and recipient. Box Hill a calling. However, I can see myself on the powerful play goes on and you may contribute a undertakes many such experiences. In my own international circuit again before I retire… verse. What will your verse be?” I think teaching role, I have the privilege of travelling frequently poetry needs to be presented in that way. Indeed, to places I would not otherwise visit (such as Finally, what’s the story behind the education needs to be presented in that way… Singapore, South China, Kiev in the Ukraine…) name Corydon, usually shortened and I always learn something new about myself. to Cory? Box Hill School is a founder Q Travel liberates the mind. member of the Round Square An eccentric father! It’s a classical Q group of 150 schools across Until a couple of years ago Box Hill Greek name, although I am Oxford the world united by a set of ‘IDEALS’ - offered only the IB in the sixth form, A English born and bred. I have never Internationalism; Democracy, Environmental Q but has now added in the option met or heard of another ‘Corydon’, though. There Concern, Adventure, Leadership, and Service. of A-levels. What’s been the take-up? What’s is a town called Corydon in Iowa…

Independent Schools Magazine 25 Studying stateside

With the advent of high university fees in the UK more and more students are considering undergraduate study in the United States. In 2014, 5,207 UK students chose the US for undergraduate study and that number is due to increase. But the complicated testing process, sorting out scholarships and funding and the sheer plethora of choice – there are more than 4,500 US colleges and universities offering undergraduate degrees – makes it a minefield for students, parents and schools. Wycliffe College, Gloucestershire, recognised the growing interest in overseas universities and in 2013 appointed Laurence Goodwin as its first International Universities Coordinator and launched its SAT (Standard Assessment Test) preparation programme. Last year all six of Wycliffe’s students who applied for American universities got the places they wanted. ISM invited Laurence to share some thoughts...

With such a wide range of US students reported US universities as Teachers also need to be a great way of engaging with universities on offer there is a their primary source of funding for more ‘American’ in terms of current admissions trends.” greater possibility of finding one 2014-15. developing relationships with US At the end of the day, though, it that suits any type of student, There is no shortcut to finding the university admission directors. is the students themselves who regardless of their particular US university that is right for you. It It is important to understand are key to the process. I always what qualities the universities interest or learning style, than is about doing your research. tell my students that I could give might be possible in the UK. are looking for – and admissions Schools who expect their teachers them a list of 10 great universities directors can tell you exactly what Undergraduate degrees in the US are to be able to support and advise to choose from, but that it would they value in an application. It is quite flexible which gives students students considering US universities be a list that suited me and my the opportunity to explore a variety must give teachers the time to do a mutually beneficial relationship; needs and not necessarily theirs. of subjects and to change direction their own research. they are interested in finding It is important that they choose before specialising. Here at Wycliffe I work three days students who fit their mission universities based on their needs According to a recent Council for a week with students helping them and academic profile and we, as and wants. Universities can tell Industry and Higher Education with their searches and preparing counsellors, are trying to find whether a candidate is truly survey of 230 UK companies, one in them for SATs. If schools are serious the very best institution for our students. USA College Day and passionate about what they offer three employers favoured applicants about offering this support then follow up visits by admissions – the US application is designed with international study experience. they must invest in giving teachers officers to your school are both to root that out. Some UK students are able to fund the time to do it properly. their studies through scholarships UK teachers need to network more from US universities and external to share their knowledge about the funding bodies, though many American university market and Tips on getting a place at universities offer limited or no also to figure out where to go for funding to international students. help. The Fulbright Commission is a a US university... However, about 21% of international fantastic resource – they are doing The Fulbright Commission, which helps UK students get US university places, suggests a some really amazing work in both three-step process: the independent sector and the state 1. Think before you search. Prioritise the factors that are important to you. You will sector through their work with the want to begin by thinking about the factors that are important to you more broadly Sutton Trust. Other schools may be and prioritise these. Talk this over with a trusted adult like a parent, teacher or careers running small college fairs or hosting officer if possible. events with admissions officers 2. Begin your search. Use an online search engine or print directory to identify a more which your students may be able to manageable list of universities meeting these criteria that you can research further. Narrow down your list from 4,500 universities to 10-20 good options. attend. A relatively small number of teachers in the UK specialise in US 3. Do your homework. Research your 10-20 good options, and then narrow the list to the 6-8 you apply to. Make sure your list is well-rounded in terms of competitiveness and other international admissions of admission. Check the US university website, and look at the academic department, so it is in your best interest to seek international student services, financial aid and student activities pages. them out and share your knowledge Schools must also understand that unlike UCAS applications, US university testing is and resources. more comprehensive and not only focusses on academic learning but also reasoning. It The Fulbright Commission’s USA also, often, begins in the penultimate year of school, meaning that students, parents and teachers all need to be aware of the potential impact on school work. College Day in London (September 23-24 at the ILEC Conference There are two admissions tests for US universities. The first is the SAT Reasoning test, a three hour test comprised of sections covering Maths and English. The test is designed Centre) is the largest US university to measure critical thinking and analytical skills and also features a 50 minute long fair in the UK with more than 180 optional essay section. The second is the ACT, a curriculum-based test testing students exhibitors representing universities in English, Mathematics, Reading and Science Reasoning. The test is 2 hours, 55 minutes in the US and educational service with an optional 40 minute Essay. The more competitive US universities will require students to submit essay scores regardless of which test they have taken. providers. Useful resources for students, parents and and counsellors doing a college search: Pictured: Amelia Henley, Wycliffe Deputy The College Board’s Big Future search engine (https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/college-search) Head Girl, has been awarded a place at Harvard with a substantial scholarship. The Princeton Review (http://www.princetonreview.com/college-education) Amelia, who is currently England The Fiske Guides - available as books and e-books (http://www.fiskeguide.com/) Number 2 squash player, plans to study mathematics and chemistry, said she chose The Fulbright Commission has detailed pages on the entire process, including Harvard because of its courses and its scholarships and financial aid:http://www.fulbright.org.uk/study-in-the-usa . strong squash programme.

26 Independent Schools Magazine Advertorial Feature Reviewing the Christmas events – did you have the right music equipment?

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Music & Drama 27 independent schools mag Ad 90x135mm MAY11.indd 1 6/5/11 13:08:41 Young musicians of the year The final of the Bath Young Musician of the Year was a glittering occasion of exceptional musical talent, bringing together an extraordinary ‘fellowship’ of Prior Park College music, featuring both current or ex-students of Prior Park College. One of the judges, Hannah Conway, attended Prior Park, and was a former winner of the title herself. Former and current Prior soloists were the reigning title-holder Lizzie Daniels, (violin), Rhiannon Harris (horn), and Sebrina Lambert Rose, (cello), who then carried off the 2015 trophy. Prior Park has built up an exceptional record on the musical stage of Bath. In 20 years under Director of Music Roland Robertson, • PPC students have been selected for the Final of this competition fifteen times, on a range of ten different instruments • on seven occasions, two PPC students were selected for the final • in one year (2006), three PPC were selected Finding Wonderland • PPC has trained five Bath Young Musicians of the Year Most of these occasions have also seen Mr Robertson himself alongside Cranleigh School, Surrey, Dreaming Wonderland was his students as their piano accompanist, “But last night” as he said, celebrated its 150th anniversary not enough, it had to be built, “it was a lovely opportunity for me to join the audience and enjoy with a series of events including and built in a limited space listening. Over the years it’s been exciting to see the youngsters getting an innovative production of Alice, to accommodate 16 totally inspired by the senior soloists and raising their sights.” an immersive reimagination of independent zones, allowing Alice in Wonderland, a story audiences to move around them which also launched in 1865. in different ways. This was a feat The School is well known for its of stage craft that took 25 pupils imaginative dramatic productions, six weeks to create, working long but staging such an ambitious hours and weekends. performance was certainly not without its challenges. Theatre Manager, Mark Jenkins, said: “Students were given the Transforming the School’s speech chance to develop a design for hall into the dream corridors a zone, with the brief that they of Alice’s mind, keeping a high-octane cast ad-libbing should be able to describe their in character and persuading area in three key words e.g., audiences to get involved were “Sweeney Todd Kitchen”, or Pictured: Director of Music Mr Roland Robertson and Finalist Rhiannon Harris not the only daunting tasks for “Dysfunctional Ryanair Check- the 55-strong team of pupils and in”. They produced drawings and Headmaster takes on role staff behind it all. plans and used Pinterest to share In the first place, as there was no ideas on a group mood board. as pantomime dame existing script to suit producing “Such a large set required a lot of Terrington Hall’s Year 6-8 pupils Alice as immersive theatre, Head of independent work and the more staged a traditional pantomime Drama Nikki Plowman and drama experienced crew not only had version of Peter Pan, featuring a teacher Emily Sinclair wrote the to learn new skills working with surprise appearance of headmaster piece as a series of small plays materials they hadn’t used before, Stephen Mulryne as the Fairy that became the ‘zones’ of Alice’s but also to learn to instruct and Godmother pantomime dame. dreams. Audiences walked through supervise younger students on set.” Under the direction of Terrington’s these scenes independently, coming newly appointed Director of The whole project drew together at the final ‘court’ scene Performing Arts Ryan O’Ehley, the together lots of different School in which the intimidating Queen of cast of Peter Panto, complete with departments: Music Technology Hearts put various characters and pirates, mermaids, fairies, lost boys who produced the soundscape, audience members on trial. and, of course, the Darling family, September. A professional singer the Design Department who Emily Sinclair said: “The delivered an exuberantly upbeat and actor who taught at Performing made specialist props, Theatre production was heavily reliant adaptation of J. M. Barrie’s much Arts Academies in London, including on audience participation, which Technology for lighting, control loved children’s classic. The Urdang Academy, London is unpredictable, so once the and communications, plus expert The audience participated with Studio Centre and Svlvia Young’s cast had learnt their lines they assistance from the on-site gusto, especially when led in the Theatre School, he has led Senior had to be ready to improvise at Works carpentry team. The actors obligatory audience participation Choir in a performance at Castle any moment. For such a young themselves had only two and a song by the Fairy Godmother Howard’s NSPCC Christmas Fair, cast this is a real challenge and half weeks on set and less than resplendent in pink. directed Peter Panto and is in something even professional actors a week in a fully functioning Ryan joined Terrington Hall as rehearsal for this term’s production do not feel comfortable doing.” Wonderland. Director of Performing Arts last of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

28 Music & Drama Independent Theatre Consultants to Schools and Colleges for over 30 Years

Thoroughly modern Cinderella Students from Derby High School She said: “This was a darker, took to the stage in The Ash Girl funny version of Cinderella – a modern version of Cinderella. and the students were keen to A cast of about 20 girls and get their teeth into Timberlake six working on backstage and Wertenbaker’s ‘The Ash Girl’. technology helped to bring the “The play boasts a fantastic array performance alive for parents and family members at the school. Staff of characters, from sinister ‘sins’ also pitched in, making costumes, to larger-than-life ugly sisters. serving refreshments, building and There are lots of interesting New Builds painting the set, applying make-up messages and themes to tackle Renovations and directing scenes. as well, such as perceptions and Conversions Students joined in by making expectations of women. props, operating the sound and Upgrades “I chose the Ash Girl because lighting and forming an organised Drama Studios I liked the mix of traditional backstage crew. Franca Supran, Recording Studios Head of Drama at Derby High take and modern twists. It’s an Concert Facilities School, said she was proud of interesting and funny play which I everyone involved in The Ash Girl. knew the girls would love.” Dance Studios Theatres Winning anti-bullying rap Let us visit f.o.c. to see how we can help Year 5 pupils Saskia Fawcett, Iris by the Anti-Bullying Alliance to you achieve your Randell, Isabella Rose and Freya mark Anti-Bullying week, and requirements Stevens, from Oakwood School, the judges were impressed by Sussex, have won first prize the very high standard of all the in their category in a national Oakwood entries. ‘Sticks and “Make a Noise about Bullying!” Stones’, written and performed Theatretech offer the competition with their anti- by the girls, was one of over 3000 following services: bullying rap, entitled ‘Sticks and entries overall. The four girls have Stones’. All Oakwood’s Year 5 won tickets to see ‘Wicked’ in Architectural Design entered the competition, run London’s West End. Theatre Systems Design Electrical Design Mechanical Design Stage Lighting Audio and Video Rigging Fixed and Mobile Seating

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Music & Drama 29 Oh! What a Lovely War

49 students from Sidcot School, Somerset, performed Joan Littlewood’s World War I extravaganza, Oh! What a Lovely War. Girls sing at ‘Bookfest Remembers’ ‘Just what the concert recorded by the BBC doctor ordered!’ Around 20 girls from Year Youth Wind Orchestra, the Adcote’s own composer Mrs C. 7 to Year 13 at Shropshire’s Shawbury Military Wives Choir Besterman. Adcote School took part in and the Band and Bugles of the In front of a large audience, the a unique concert staged by Armed Cadet Force, the Adcote concert was introduced by the the literary charity ‘Bookfest’, girls sang in a combined choir of High Sheriff of Shropshire. It was commemorating the centenary 120 to premiere some new WW1 recorded by the BBC, filmed by of the First World War and its songs. These included famous the Arts Council, and compered literary legacy through music and war poetry by Wilfred Owen and by Vicki Archer. An abridged readings. Siegfried Sassoon. The songs version of the concert was Along with other ensembles and were commissioned specially for broadcast on Christmas Day on choirs including the Shropshire the occasion and were written by BBC Radio Shropshire. St Benedict’s School, London, staged a spectacular performance Superstar talent of Molière’s ‘Le Malade The West End was brought to gave such a talented performance Preparatory School children. Imaginaire’, in French, with the Modern Foreign Languages and Felsted School, Essex, as the of Andrew Lloyd-Webber’s much- Head of Drama Dr Charles Lee Drama departments combining Senior School put on a hugely loved rock musical, including was “enormously proud of their expertise. powerful production of Jesus a special supporting role from all students both on and off ‘Le Malade Imaginaire’ is one of Christ Superstar. The whole cast a group of superstar Felsted stage. They pulled off a highly professional production that Molière’s most cutting pieces, with all its jibes at the medical appropriately maintained the profession and its scathing standard of excellence that has portrayal of Argan, a chronic come to be expected of Felsted hypochondriac. It is also a School shows.” complete blend of sixteenth The standing ovation that century traditions - high comedy, was given to cast, crew and ‘ballet de la cour’ and Italian musicians on the final night ‘commedia dell arte’. was recognition of all of their Chris Cleugh, Headmaster, said: hard work, as well as Dr Lee’s “The pupils’ linguistic talent commitment and creativity over in French certainly did the more than twenty years. MFL department proud. The combination of music, dance and Georgia Wilson, who played Mary, drama and Molière’s brilliant wit commented: “We are all incredibly in ‘Le Malade Imaginaire’ was just appreciative of the experience we what the doctor ordered for a fun have gained and the chance to evening at St Benedict’s. Tears work with professional lighting, and laughter were intermingled in costumes and staging that really an audience full of both pride and do have a West End quality.” emotion.”

30 Music & Drama Star visit

The Crucible Glenda Jackson, double Oscar women were seen as equal to winning actress and ex- Labour men, she swiftly said ‘No’, and The Crucible is one of the School) and Miss Price (Head MP, visited Leicester High School said that every girl had to correct twentieth century’s greatest of Drama, King’s High School). last term. She is pictured with gender bias as it came her way. plays. Set in 1692 Salem, An innovative revolving stage Headmaster Alan Whelpdale. After a lunch with special guests Massachusetts, at the height to ‘agitate’ the action and She spoke to the girls about from the community of Leicester, of the witch-hunts, it is a bring the audience closer to acting and politics. She said that she gave some advice to the 30 popular choice for academic the melting pot of deceit and the best directors were the ones girls who were due to perform study and performance because corruption along with a raised who didn’t think they knew it all scenes from Lady Macbeth as of its remarkable unpicking of wooden structure which moved at the start, and she said that she part of the Schools’ Shakespeare mankind’s deepest weaknesses like a praying mantis between loved the theatre most of all as festival in November. After and fears. acts creating roof-beams, the every night was different because watching them, she suggested The recent Warwick School and suggestion of a cross and even the audience was different. She they tighten up their diction King’s High School production a gibbet at the appropriate was passionate, down to earth, and encouraged them to ‘smell was directed by Mr Perry moments in the production, were funny and inspiring. When asked the blood’ in the classic Lady (Head of Drama, Warwick designed by Judy Reaves. by one of the girls if she thought Macbeth scene of the play.

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Music & Drama 31 ‘New vocationalism’ hailed at conference Milton Abbey School, Dorset, A Level, the conference provided vocational nature of AUB’s offering, Milton Abbey, we pride ourselves welcomed parents, journalists, a platform for Milton Abbey commenting, “Courses at AUB on being a specialist education schools and educational agents to to set out its comprehensive offer students the chance to work provider, equipping young people the recent ‘Future of Vocational programme of nine BTEC courses collaboratively on real projects, with a portfolio of transferable skills Learning’ conference. The to the audience, currently including with real companies, and with real enabling them to thrive in today’s conference, which was run in Equine Management, Countryside career destinations in view. Like workplace.” collaboration with Arts University Management, Hospitality, Music, Bournemouth and featured Vice Performing Arts, Sport, Business, Chancellor, Stuart Bartholomew Enterprise and Entrepreneurship and CBE, as guest speaker, sought to Creative Media Production, with introduce the concept of ‘new plans for additional courses to be vocationalism’ to the audience. added in the near future.

Stuart began by summing up the Milton Abbey’s Headmaster, Magnus extent to which career choices for Bashaarat, said, “With UCAS independently educated pupils have rebuilding their points tariff to become largely predictable, with incorporate BTEC qualifications and many pupils following pre-carved now just a handful of universities pathways into law or medicine, for not recognising BTECs as entry example, which often don’t suit qualifications, vocationalism is their particular skills, talents or gaining ground and Milton Abbey preferences but instead conform to is proud to be leading the way the traditional notion of academia by offering the broadest range of as superior to vocationalism. Whilst BTEC courses in the independent other countries attribute a high level sector.” He continues, “University is of esteem to technical or vocational not the only option, however, and courses, he highlighted how in the a vocational pathway equips those UK a stigma of ‘doing’ as inferior pupils choosing to proceed directly to ‘thinking’ has proven harder to into the world of work with a toolkit break down. The emergence of ‘new of key employability skills which vocationalism’, of developing powers are so desirable to companies and of learning, transferable skills and a organisations today.” preparedness for the workplace, can A recent survey conducted by help combat this ‘rear view mirror’ The Daily Telegraph ranked Arts scenario, where young people are University Bournemouth number driving forward with their futures one in a list of universities whose with their eyes firmly fixed on a past students successfully progress which has gone before them. into full time employment on Given that higher education completion of their studies, scoring choices are largely defined by an impressive 97.4%. Stuart Pictured: Stuart Bartholomew CBE, Vice Chancellor of Arts University Bournemouth qualifications gained at GCSE and Bartholomew credits this to the (left) with Magnus Bashaarat, Milton Abbey’s Headmaster The Changing Shape of Post-16 Education – Quick Facts • What are BTECs? BTECs are typically assignment-based qualifications, continually assessed over two years, teaching project management skills and collaborative work alongside individual research and development relating to a particular industry • Recent IPPR (Institute of Public Policy Research) report reveals that many jobs expected to drive economic growth in the future will not necessarily require a traditional academic pathway • Vocational qualifications a developing market/area of growth • A BTEC National Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma carries the equivalent weighting of an A Level • Research commissioned by Pearson looking at data compiled between 1996 and 2011 found that 89.8% of graduates with BTEC qualifications were in employment, compared with 88.1% of graduates with A Levels • UCAS is rebuilding its points tariff to incorporate BTEC qualifications, and 95% of universities now accept BTECs on entry • Vocational learning incorporates key employability skills identified by Manchester University as including time management, communication, adaptability, initiative, problem solving and commercial awareness, for example

32 Independent Schools Magazine Record numbers of students accepted to UK universities and colleges

Number of Acceptances by Cycle Year Apply Centre Type 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Academy 56,015 61,465 64,560 66,470 70,300 66,540 73,210 75,000 79,855 Further education 31,830 34,585 37,755 37,625 35,875 32,795 36,120 37,730 37,810 Grammar 10,640 11,010 11,010 10,610 10,730 10,095 10,660 10,455 10,235 Independent 28,550 30,325 30,720 30,685 30,190 29,255 29,210 29,405 30,445 Sixth form college 46,740 52,015 55,850 56,405 57,745 53,745 55,975 57,365 60,185 State 63,715 69,105 71,315 69,075 69,110 64,940 67,375 69,125 71,675 Other 18,760 15,525 15,960 21,880 28,150 24,710 27,205 28,290 28,860 Total 256,245 274,030 287,165 292,755 302,100 282,080 299,750 307,365 319,060

A total of 532,000 people entered taken a year out. This makes a Acceptances from other EU (the proportion of applicants UK higher education in 2015, an total of around 319,000 applying countries rose by 11% to 29,000, placed) increased by 0.9% to underlying increase of 3.1% (16,100) through their UK school or college and 39,000 students were 74.1%, with increases for UK on last year and the highest number (see table above for nine-year accepted from outside the EU, an applicants of all ages. In total recorded, according to the latest trends by school type). increase of just 1.9%. 718,000 people applied. UCAS statistics. Mature students from the UK Universities made a record 1.9 The entry rate for 18 year old Of them, 235,000 were young made up the total UK placements million offers to students and women grew twice as fast as for people aged 18. An additional to 463,000, an underlying more applicants than ever before men. Women are now 35% more 84,000 students were aged 19, increase of 2.8% and the highest got into their first ‘firm’ choice likely to enter than men, the including those who may have number ever placed by UCAS. (384,000). The acceptance rate largest difference recorded.

Advertorial Feature Pupil Accidents: Prevent and Protect Providing personal accident insurance for every pupil to protect against the financial consequences of serious injury at school is simple, straightforward, and good for business writes Richard Moxon, Head of Education at Marsh. A serious injury to a pupil while it’s surprisingly easy to do, creates has been injured as a result of a at school is every school’s worst very little administrative burden, complete accident – and, without nightmare – one that, sadly, comes and may help to create a point of personal accident insurance cover – Girls versus Boys: true all too often. During 2014 difference in the minds of parents, is simply not protected at all. The Facts alone, we at Marsh dealt with 120 particularly those based overseas. In Loco Parentis claims arising from serious accidents It is common misconception In the end, of course, independent involving pupils at school*. What About Public to think that boys are far schools have no legal obligation Liability Cover? more prone to serious injuries The sad truth is that, no matter how to insure all their pupils against You may well argue that public extensive the risk assessment, nor accidents. It can be argued that than girls – recent Marsh liability insurance cover is there to how comprehensive the health and independent schools are best statistics suggests this isn’t protect the school against these safety policy, accidents will and do placed to offer that comprehensive always the case: incidents. happen. As a result, a sensible focus protection. • During 2014, of all the on preventing accidents should However, precisely where a school’s They can very easily protect all their personal accident claims be coupled with steps to make a responsibility begins and ends can pupils via specialist personal accident Marsh dealt with, 40% had a provision for life after an accident. be a grey area. Take a road traffic insurance schemes – with premiums accident that happens in or around female claimant. Ask yourself, if the lifetime cost of generally paid by parents via the the school entrance, for example • When it comes to large claims caring for a severely disabled child is school fee and amounting to no ** – it might be difficult to say with for more serious injuries, the likely to exceed £1 million , should more than £10 per term for a £2 certainty who was “in charge” at a school put in place an insurance million maximum benefit. split between girls and boys the time of the incident. In that scheme to ensure these costs can be is more even – during 2014, scenario, a school (via its insurers When you measure those few met and the child’s future secured? 48% of large claims related and advisers) may successfully argue pounds against the lifetime cost of to female claimants. It’s very hard to see a valid argument that it was not to blame and avoid caring for a disabled child, is there against taking such a step. liability – but is it a pyrrhic ”victory”, really any argument for not ensuring • The most common sporting Firstly, this is due to the fact that no particularly when you consider the all your pupils are protected by accidents that result in one wants to see a child and their hardships that are likely to ensue for personal accident insurance? a spinal cord injury are family suffer financial hardship on the injured pupil? To keep up to date with the latest diving, rugby, winter sports, top of life-changing injury. But also In truth, a great many disabling trends in risk management for gymnastics, and horse because, quite frankly, putting in injuries are sustained not as a result independent schools, join the Marsh riding***. place that extra layer of financial of negligence, but through sheer UK Education Forum on LinkedIn or protection is good for the school – bad luck. In other words, the pupil visit uk.marsh.com/education. *Marsh’s Education Practice Claim Statistics 2014 **Spinal Injuries Association Impact record and Financial Statement 2010/11. ***Spinal Injury Network – www.spinal-injury.net Marsh Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Copyright © 2016 Marsh Ltd All rights reserved

Independent Schools Magazine 33 Independent schools protect ‘vulnerable’ modern languages at A level

A quarter of all A level entries for French, The JCQ data also reveals student numbers and their high grades explains why they gain German and Spanish come from within the from independent schools studying the places in these subjects at top universities. independent schools sector, new figures reveal. subjects less-valued by the top universities In fact in some cases they are propping up In 2015, just 10,328 pupils studied French at remains incredibly low. Few studied sociology, university departments. According to UCAS, A level across the UK, with 2,572 (24.9%) from media studies, film studies or general studies. of 18-19 year olds going to university in independent schools. Both Spanish and German At GCSE, where 5% of all students are 2014 who live in the UK, 27% of those also showed low entry numbers, with independent independently educated, more than 60% of studying medicine came from independent school pupils providing 25% in both. all entries for classics are from independent schools as did 28% of those studying And as well as modern foreign languages, European languages. schools although the percentages across other strategically important but vulnerable the SIV subjects is lower than at A level. “Why does this happen? In part it is because (SIV) subjects such as maths, science, classics, Attainment at GCSE is also high. many independent senior schools still ask for economics and music show disproportionate modern languages as part of their admissions numbers of independent pupils choosing them. criteria. So this drives prep schools to teach Nationally, just 14% of all A level students are these subjects and teach them well. Partly educated in independent schools, but 2015 it is because our senior schools often have A level figures from the Joint Council for strong teachers in tricky subjects like physics Qualifications (JCQ) reveal higher percentages and Latin; they are successfully taught, so studying these subjects. pupils opt for them. In the case of modern Achievement in the subjects is also very positive languages the explanation is that many in the independent sector with an average A* or independent schools require all pupils to take A grade percentage across the SIV subjects of at least one modern languages GCSE. over 50%. Barnaby Lenon, Chairman of Independent Schools Council, said: “The annual JCQ data “Another telling reason is that independent shows yet again that independent schools schools are more likely to have teachers with punch well above their weight when it comes a degree in the subject they teach, not least to achievement and uptake of some of the the sciences. Having subject specialists in the most important subjects. The large number of classroom, including for young pupils in prep pupils taking sciences and modern languages schools, is a huge advantage”.

School builds relationships with India

King Edward’s School, Birmingham, welcomed two teachers from BD culture of Birmingham, visiting the changing their country and the the oldest school in the city, has Somani. Shantanu Rajadhyaksha, Frankfurt Christmas Market and the world, and it has been inspiring to been building relationships with who teaches History, and Navroz traditional British activities of a meal have them here. a young school in India, founded Billimoria, who teaches Maths, spent in a ‘chippy’ and going to see Aston “Both of our schools believe in the only 10 years ago, to explore the two weeks at King Edward’s School Villa play Manchester City. They also power of education to transform differences and similarities between exploring the school and its culture, visited the University of Birmingham lives and in the importance of the cultures and philosophies of the observing lessons, talking to staff and King Edward’s Aston. education as the best way to answer two schools. and pupils, and taking part in the Both schools teach the International the questions that the world faces. full school timetable. The relationship with BD Somani Baccalaureate Diploma in the It was particularly poignant that International School in Mumbai The visitors lived with teachers from Sixth Form. The head teachers teachers from Mumbai, a city that has been developing over the last the school during their stay and of the schools share a common had been afflicted by terrorism, 18 months with staff from each also took part in a programme of educational philosophy and can should be here as the terrible events school spending time in the other. sightseeing which included a trip to see the potential benefits to both of Paris unfolded. In November, King Edward’s School London, exploring the history and schools of developing closer links, “King Edward’s School is the most not least because the mission of socially and ethnically diverse the IB Diploma is to create global independent school in this country citizens who will work for peace in so it is particularly important that the world. our pupils should have the chance to John Claughton, Chief Master of forge links with another school and King Edward’s School, said: “It another city.” has been an absolute pleasure There are plans to develop further to have Shantanu and Navroz as links with BD Somani in the part of our common room over future through teacher and pupil the last two weeks. Both of them exchanges, work experience and have entered into teaching careers charitable work, and a school hockey with the purpose of changing the and rugby tour which will go to lives of their pupils and thereby India in 2017. Pictured: (L-R) Teachers John Fern and Martin Monks with Shantanu and Navroz, and the Chief Master John Claughton at the Aston Villa vs Man City match.

34 Independent Schools Magazine If something went wrong on a school trip...... “I didn’t know” would not be a defence in a court of law Mike Imperato heads the Public & Administrative Law and Education Law Departments and one of his specialist areas is Personal Injury. He has experience of running complex, high value Personal Injury cases, has been involved in some of the highest profile cases in Wales in recent years in Judicial Review, Education and Personal Injury. He has particular expertise in Foreign Accident claims.

Michael Imperato (pictured right), a Partner in the award winning Solicitors, Watkins and Gunn – [email protected]

BUSK put some questions to Mike. include teachers who arranged or from various sources and a court could demonstrate that a school This is what he had to say… coordinated the trip, head teachers, would expect schools and others to making transport arrangements Q. What does “being responsible” school governors/management access this and act on it.” has not taken into account the actually mean when making teams, the coach company, coach Q. Would that duty include necessary and legally required transport arrangements for pupils? driver, tour operator, transport making sure coach drivers on trips safety checks. As I said before, every manager, teachers supervising on the A. “A simple question but this is in the UK and abroad had adequate school needs to demonstrate a a very serious, far-reaching and coach. The list isn’t exhaustive. The rest in suitable accommodation to ‘good culture of safety’.” bottom line is they all are likely to reduce fatigue risks? complex subject. In legal terms Mike is just one of the expert speakers have a duty of care at some point a “duty of care” is present but A. “Absolutely. Drivers need to have at the BUSK School Transport Safety many people might be surprised to and need to be able to show they adequate rest. Accommodation used Conference 2016. It’s a must for any discover what “being responsible” properly complied. A good audit trail for coach drivers needs to be fit to school with responsibility for procuring is essential to show that the school home to school transport or booking actually means to them personally facilitate that. Both the school and school trips (UK or abroad) and this in law.” has a good ‘culture of safety’.” tour companies will certainly have a includes transport for those with special Q. What if somebody honestly and duty of care to risk assess this aspect needs and passengers that need to travel Q. So, who might be responsible in in a wheelchair. legal terms? genuinely didn’t know what his or of the trip and the same may apply her duties of care were? to coach operators.” Conference venue is Lydiard Hotel in A. “The short answer is ‘everybody Swindon on 16th, 17th, 18th March connected with the journey.’ If A. “That would be absolutely no Q. These are hard times financially. 2016 and places are limited. Places can there were to be a road accident defence at all in my view. If you Everyone is under pressure. What be booked for one or more days. during a school trip for instance, are “responsible” for the provision if the only criterion used was to For more information or to book a place resulting in injury or death, then of that journey you need to be go for the cheapest due to budget contact BUSK. legally, everybody connected with able to demonstrate that you have limitations? Tel: 01633 274944 the journey could be required to done everything you can to make A. “I certainly wouldn’t recommend Email: [email protected], quoting BSR6 to reserve your place and demonstrate they had met their duty sure the journey is a safe one. The that. By definition it implies that take advantage of a special discount for of care. It could certainly initially information is out there, available cost is a priority over safety. This ISM readers.

BUSK’s ‘Nightcap’ campaign supports more than 1,200 professional coach drivers concerned about safety critical issues relating to driver fatigue on school trips both in the UK and abroad. It’s a very serious issue for schools because every school has a legal duty of care to risk assess this aspect of the trip.

Help is available and it’s one of many safety issues being discussed at BUSK’s School Transport Safety Conference in March which is an absolute ‘must’ for any school that makes any type of transport arrangements and/or operates its own transport. Monmouthshire County Council now instruct their schools to use a new risk assessment they’ve provided which includes a section to risk assess the driver accommodation. They’re speakers at the Conference and are joined by experts including BUSK’s solicitor and a TV presenter who will all answer questions and give specialist advice and practical solutions on a wide range of subjects including how to cope with media attention should things go wrong. Running from 16-18 March, it’s fantastic value, delegates can book just one or more days. A great opportunity to network with others in similar positions, discuss common problems and have access to experts. ISM readers can take advantage of a special rate by contacting BUSK and quoting the code BRS6. The venue is the beautiful setting of Lydiard House in Swindon. It’s close to junction 16 of the M4 and accommodation is available. For more information or to book a place contact BUSK on 01633 274944 or email at [email protected]. To visit our website www.busk-uk.co.uk

School Travel 35 Staying safe on the slopes Safety is always a major concern for parents when it comes to school ski trips – here Steven McCallum health and safety manager from legal consultancy Law At Work explains how to reduce the risks involved.

Safety before which can change rapidly. Falls are Before school children while skiing is to be physically fit, hitting the slopes going to happen, regardless of skill, as stronger muscles help maintain and collisions are common. make their first turns control on the slopes. Many of us will be well aware of The risks can however be minimized School children should be getting The best way to learn is from a incidents where buses carrying skiers by following the skier safety code, regular exercise beforehand and certified instructor, private lessons have crashed on the Continent. often printed on lift tickets, lists should warm up and stretch before will give the most one-on-one time When planning any trip it is some of the “inherent dangers and they start skiing. One of the most with an instructor, or there are less- important for school ski trip leaders risks of skiing, including: existing effective ways to prevent injuries expensive ski schools. to carry out a full risk assessment, and changing snow conditions; including all transportation. rocks and trees; collisions and the Be smart on the slopes It is worth noting that an accident failure of skiers to ski within their Here are a few important reminders before hitting the slopes: which occurs outside the UK may own abilities”. • Have a buddy: No matter how good the skier, it’s possible to have a be subject to the law of the land in Gearing up which it occurred. A school could bad fall and be unable to continue skiing. Having a skiing partner It’s important to have the right still be liable under civil law for who can summon the ski patrol, if necessary, is much safer than gear and know how to use it, in injuries to children that happen skiing alone. addition to skis with bindings abroad as a result of negligence on • Know your limits: Beginners should stick to the beginner slopes checked by a professional, skiers the part of the school or its staff. until they feel comfortable enough to move to something steeper. need the right boots, poles as well Most ski trails are clearly marked as green (beginner), blue squares as protective eyewear and a helmet Why safety on (intermediate), red (advanced) or black diamond (expert). the slopes is vital intended specifically for skiing or snowboarding. • Follow the rules: Never venture past the ski area boundary or ski into Skiing is undoubtedly a risky activity a closed area. which involves moving at very high Dress for excess • Practice skier etiquette: Skiers in front or below have the right of way. speeds down steep hills past other The best way to dress is in layers Never stop in the middle of a trail or anywhere which can’t be seen skiers and natural and man-made using breathable fabrics – which can from above. obstacles in weather conditions be shed if the sun comes out. www.lawatwork.co.uk Girls support explorers ~ you can help too! Alderley Edge School for Girls, Cousteau to polar bears and even to communicate with the team uncertain terrain. An experienced Cheshire, welcomed Mark Wood, the Elsa from Frozen! through Skype during their epic trio of Polar expedition specialists, British Explorer, to talk about his journey and experience what it the team are well placed to take Deputy Headmistress Caroline Wood expedition next month (February) is like to travel with modern-day on the challenge, having between said “All of the girls, from Reception to complete the ‘most dangerous explorers over this unforgiving yet them successfully participated in through to the Upper Sixth were journey on Earth’. fragile environment, sharing first and led both Arctic and Antarctic captivated by Mark’s talks and To make Mark feel welcome, the hand their experience, thoughts expeditions. really enjoyed hearing about his and observations on this last true school held an ‘explorer day’, The expedition team have all been experiences and the challenges faced wilderness. Mrs Wood went on to with the pupils and staff dressing connected with the armed forces by a real-life explorer.” add “We hope to understand the up as explorers…or anything and, through this challenge, support During the expedition in February, implication of global climate change linked to the North Pole, which the charity Hire a Hero, which helps included everything from Jacques the pupils will have the opportunity and to broaden the girls’ future decisions. After all, our motto is service leavers through the transition ‘Aspire not to have more, but to into civilian life. be more.’’ We are looking forward In return for the unique to hearing about the expedition opportunity to be a part of this when Mark returns to share his historic journey, the school is experiences”. aiming to raise £15,000 to cover Mark, along with Paul Vicary and the cost of one of the sledges. Mark Langridge will attempt to To kick off the fundraising, trek from Russia to the North Pole Mark also spoke to parents and without a re-supply. The scale of the members of the local community challenge is considerable; crossing about the unique opportunity and hundreds of miles of unstable how everyone can take part. The sea-ice; surviving in sub-zero school has set up a Just Giving Junior School Head Girls Georgia Campbell, Jumanah Charbak, Clarissa Rigby, temperatures, and man-hauling up page for any donations at: Nicole Reeves with Mark Wood and Head of Junior School Bridget Howard. to 140kg across this dynamic and http://bit.ly/20GJMeC

36 School Travel @RayburnEdu facebook.com/RayburnTours

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16-001 Inde Schools.indd 1 07/01/2016 13:26:51 ISA Awards ~ winners announced The second annual ISA Awards, standard of entry was even ever undertaken and each one of focusing on innovation and higher than last year, and we us would jump at the chance to ISA Awards Winners 2015 excellence, celebrated the are extremely proud of the go back. Pupils return from the ISA Community Award Radnor House outstanding achievement of achievement of our finalists.” trip changed people, more mature independent schools across a Hosted by TV personality Penny and determined to make the most ISA Award for Outstanding Provision in Sport range of categories. Almost 50 Smith, the winning schools, of their education.” Scarisbrick School entries were received, from a including Radnor House, Sarah Welch, current chair of ISA, ISA Award for Outstanding wide array of ISA schools of all Thames Christian College, added “What made the evening Achievement in Sport sizes and regions. This year, ISA Queen Ethelburgas CATS Canterbury and Hatherop particularly memorable was how Awards were presented in 13 Castle School, celebrated their thrilled the Heads and their Outstanding Contribution for categories, celebrating a variety of achievement with colleagues and International Understanding Senior Teams were to have the Thames Christian College achievements including Excellence friends at the annual ISA Study efforts of their staff and pupils in the Arts, Healthy Eating and Conference. ISA Award for Excellence in the Arts recognised in this way. There was Hatherop the School Website of the Year. Discussing the travel initiative a real sense of excitement and ISA Early Years Award for excellence that brought Thames Christian celebration. It was also great to and innovation in provision College their winning prize, see such a wide range of schools St Edwards Prep Stephen Holsgrove, Head Teacher, winning the awards, reflecting the ISA Green School of the Year commented “We are very touched diversity within ISA. We know our Hurst Lodge School to receive the Outstanding members work hard to provide ISA Award for Healthy Eating Contribution for International Ballard School the best education they can for Understanding Award. It means a the children in their care, and ISA Award for IT Innovation lot to us and to the charity who Bredon School this was the opportunity to put organise it for us, Go Make a their excellent practice in the School Website of the Year Difference. The grassroots nature St Pedrocs spotlight.” of our trip where our pupils work ISA Award for Financial Management Neil Roskilly, Chief Executive alongside villagers in one of the We would like to congratulate all Hipperholme Grammar of the ISA, commented “The poorest areas of Tanzania really schools that entered this year’s ISA Junior/Prep School Award for 2015 ISA Awards once more enables pupils to gain a greater ISA Annual Awards, on their excellence and innovation in provision Hatherop demonstrated that our schools understanding of the challenges individual achievements, especially are at the forefront of innovation of life in a developing world those who made it into the top ISA Senior School Award for excellence and innovation in provision three schools for each of our and excellence in independent country. It is one of the best CATS Canterbury education. If anything, the educational initiatives we have thirteen awards. Pictured: Penny Smith (Host), Steve McKernan (Head of St Edwards), Caroline Scoular (Presenter), Lynn Young (St Edwards) and Kate France (St Edwards). Four teams lift trophies at Exmoor 30:30 Four teams from Denstone College, Staffordshire, minutes off the record time which has been held have won trophies after completing a gruelling by Denstone College since 2013. challenge across Exmoor National Park in the The CCF team (all male) - Euan Jarvis, Luke fastest time. Collins, Will Woodings and James Higgs won As a school the College was presented with the men’s 30km, defeating their nearest rival trophies for the Fastest Mixed, All Female and by over two hours, while the Open Mixed team All Male 30km teams and the Fastest Mixed of Angela Smith, Gill Taylor, Rannoch Linnell 30 mile team in the Exmoor 30:30 challenge. and Richard Lightfoot won the gruelling mixed The event, organised by former members of 30 mile event. Thea Linnell (relative), Hannah the Special Forces, is a fundraiser for the Royal Rosenbaum, Claire Burrows and Catherine Bailey British Legion and challenges teams to navigate won the 30km women’s category. “I have competed in the event for the last four years as I have a certain attachment to the RBL either a 30km or 30 mile route across Exmoor The other men’s team Archie Cameron, Bertie as I spent eight years as an Army Officer before while carrying a 30lb pack. Linnell (relative), Mauricio Banados and Richard becoming a games teacher. However I am fully Games teacher at Denstone and former Army Linnell (relative) were pipped to the post, and Officer, Nia Linnell, is the driving force behind Hannah Wills had to be pulled of the hill with a aware of my limitations and have only ever the College’s involvement in the Exmoor 30:30, recurrent hip problem, but everyone, including competed in the 30km event carrying 30lbs. I do where the school has had an impressive showing the support team, all remained in excellent like to race and I know that another 12 miles on in recent years. spirits. top of the 18 would finish me off!” Nia (yellow top in our picture) lead the mixed Nia said: “As a 48 year old relatively sporty At the prize-giving, Major General Tony Jeapes 30km team from the College, taking on the female member of staff at Denstone College I CB, OBE, MC, joked that just as the SAS challenge with team mates Vicki Higgs, Will ended up being selected by the pupils to be in are known in military circles simply as “The Morgan and Sam Woods to defeat an ex-military the racing snake team for the Exmoor 30:30 Regiment”, so Denstone will always be identified mixed team by two hours, and shave four challenge. to the Exmoor insiders as “The College”.

38 Independent Schools Magazine Advertorial Feature

Aitkens Award Nutri-Pro fertiliser scores top marks at Merchiston Castle School Michael Yan Hip, Head Groundsman at Edinburgh based Merchiston Castle School, praises the rapid effect of Aitkens Award Nutri-Pro on the pitches.

Michael (pictured) has been in When scars do occur it is more to stimulate growth of sward and with some guidance from Ryan. charge of the 10 acres of natural important to encourage regeneration Nutri-Pro 4-0-24 late on in the year “We looked at exactly what we sports surfaces within the 100 acre of the roots which still exist in the to combat stress from autumn and were trying to achieve, I didn’t school campus for four years, but soil profile than to focus on re- winter rain and frost. want too high nitrogen content only recently started using Nutri-Pro growing the surviving surface grass. With the pitches in constant because I don’t want to turn after sales representative Ryan Beck His team of four caters for different use at the all-boys school, the my pitches into a grass factory, recommended it to him during a turf based sports at the Merchiston protection and longevity of the particularly in early spring. Nutri- recent visit. School including rugby, football, sward is vital. These factors Pro has got the balance right and The instant impact of the product cricket and athletics, with the winter along with the improvement of has helped on several different has left him extremely pleased, sports programme still in action winterAitkens colour ad 251115 are what .qxp_ark initially 25/11/2015 fronts 10:15 to achieve Page 1superb playing and he has been surprised at just across the nine grass pitches. drew Michael to the product, surfaces all year round.” how quickly it has started taking Michael explains his approach in effect on the pitches with a clear more detail “Here in the Colinton improvement in colour and recovery. area of Edinburgh the soil has “We used it for the first time extremely high clay content, and as part of our rugby renovation it’s relatively acidic. The magnesium INTRODUCING OUR and preparation of pre-season and calcium within Nutri-Pro break rolling of the cricket squares, and down the acid in the clay and the results have been very, very generally improve the soil structure positive,” he began. to promote healthy growth.” “First we treated the cricket squares “Running parallel with our chemical RANGE as a last granular feed prior to pre- and biological approach are the season preparations and then used it mechanical procedures such as on the rugby pitches the following spiking and vert-draining to aerate day. Because it was a micro-fine and de-compact the soil. With the A selection of products product it broke down quickly and afore-mentioned treatment of the including fine turf we saw evidence of the positive soil with sand, the drainage and effects within a week of application. percolation rates have improved granular fertiliser, With over ten years of soil and enabled the pitches to shed the liquid fertilisers, liquid amelioration the top three to four surface water more efficiently. inches of the rugby pitches have He runs a fertiliser programme which seaweed, wetting good sand integration which has targets seasonal activity using Nutri- agents and liquid irons, given the soil more structure greatly Pro 8-0-12 applied in the summer all created for reducing the incidence of divots. with its higher nitrogen content unequalled performance

[email protected] T: England: 01977 681155 T: Scotland: 0141 440 0033 www.aitkens.co.uk For more information on all of Aitkens products please visit the website www.aitkens.co.uk

Sport 39 Advertorial Feature Squaring the Satisfaction Circle for School Sportswear Squadkit is now the leading brand in Independent Schools having been adopted by over 120 schools across the UK and Europe. In building our brand we’ve conducted extensive they’ve never heard of, and certainly want to be and is not simply an adult brand dabbling in research with hundreds of parents, scores of Heads sure that the kit worn performs and lasts. Schoolwear. It also means girls and boys fit of Sport, and innumerable pupils to identify Ease of Purchase – They want an ordering process products where possible. what each of these important stakeholders want to be as simple and quick as possible, and stock Simplicity – Amazingly, the pupils echo their from their sportswear, and used this knowledge to be held all year round to cover the inevitable parents in this. They too are worried about to ensure that we can deliver real product losses (despite items being name-tagged). bringing the wrong kit and prefer fewer, multi- performance and satisfaction to all. use garments. Heads of Sport want: Parents want: At Squadkit we’ve used all of this research to Great Looking Kit, which performs, using high create the perfect offer: High performance kit, Simplicity – They like their offspring to quality fabrics and distinctive designs. individually designed for each school backed by look great on the sports field and recognise Access to great performing staff and first team an easy to use website and efficient distribution the confidence that good kit develops. But kit – they want to look good too, and to ensure system means any item can be ordered online at parents hate not knowing what to pack in that their leading teams are kitted out in the best any time for delivery within 48 hours. the bag and would prefer multi-use garments kit possible. We’ve worked with leading sports rather than a wide selection of different professionals and Heads of Sport to create shirts (as they are fed up with always having Pupils want: genuine performance garments that can packed the wrong thing!) Great looking kit which flatters their teenage be worn across sports, plus a range of first Value for Money – Naturally. They don’t want body shapes. This means kit from a supplier team and staff kit that sets new standards in to pay a huge premium for brand names who genuinely understands youth sizing fabrics, designs and technology.

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5049 Squadkit Advertising FINAL.indd 1 17/06/2015 17:43 Equestrian hat trick Equestrians at Blundell’s School class; Blundellians qualified for in Devon are once again UK 43 different entries. Amongst the national champions, having other successes at the event were won the Jumping with Style Eleanor Ansell’s 8th place and (Arena Eventing) open class at Lola Watt’s national runner-up the National Schools Equestrian position following a beautiful clear Association (NSEA) championship round in the Jumping with Style at Addington for the third 1.10m class open to the top 20 year running – an unheard of individuals; the team of Georgia achievement in this competition. Wood, India Eaton, Polly Muirhead Blundell’s fielded two teams to and Lola Watt gaining 6th place in defend the title; both teams were the elite 1.10 show jumping, with placed in the top ten and the team some of the team jumping this of Lola Watt, Will Smith, Eleanor height for the first time; and the Ansell and Polly Muirhead took Junior Jumping with Style teams the title. Their team trainer Tim who performed very well, just Cheffings was delighted they had missing out on top ten placings, achieved the hat trick and said: with special mention to Finn Pictured: Sisters, Governors, Headteacher and Mayor Cllr Eileen Quick and her Consort From left to right: Barbara Denning, Sr. Helena, Karl McCloskey, Sr. Pauline, Denver “Dedication and talent has been Muirhead who was the highest Dias, Ann Nash, Rev. John Quick, Mayor Eileen Quick, Michael O’Sullivan, Sr. Mazarello, justly rewarded with these results placed individual in the 70, 80 and and Helen Wilkie at national level; the team are 90 classes. worthy winners”. The success of the Blundell’s Sporting Spectacular Fundraiser The NSEA’s National Jumping equestrians across all The stars came out when The commented “Our school has an with Style and Show Jumping competitions in the South West Marist Schools, Berkshire, hosted enviable history and tradition finals were highly competitive was further recognised at a a ball at Wentworth Golf Club to of producing top level sports with more than 1900 entries and presentation where they won the help raise a contribution towards people. With state of the art an average of 40 schools per regional points league. their new Sports Hall. The Ball facilities we will encourage a was attended by Windsor Mayor much wider participation in sport Eileen Quick and her Consort and we are sure we will produce Rev. John Quick and Olympic and many more sports stars.” Commonwealth Games champion David Wilkie. The event was David and Helen Wilkie, whose further supported by Sophia daughter Natasha attended Candappa, current Surrey Storm The Marist, were instrumental and England Netballer. in organising the Wentworth Ball. Helen commented, “The The £2.5m spend will provide the school and community with a school is a lovely family and high quality facility, which meets community. Marist girls achieve Sports England specification. great academic results as well as The build is due to be completed excelling in sport, music and art. by early summer 2016. Michael Anything we can do to broaden O’Sullivan, Governor and Chair participation levels by girls in Pictured (L to R): Lola Watt, Will Smith, Eleanor Ansell and Polly Muirhead the of the Finance Committee, sport is a good thing.” Jumping with Style national champions Star player returns England Rugby Union player and Rishworth old boy George Ford returned to Rishworth School, Yorkshire, to visit students and staff and thank them for their messages of support they sent in the run up to the World Cup. Ford stunned and surprised Year 7 students by arriving to watch the end of their Games lesson on the pitches he used to train on. As well as posing for numerous photographs, signing hundreds of autographs and presenting the school with one of his England playing shirts, George took part in an impromptu Q & A session to over a hundred students from Rishworth and Heathfield School. George recalled some of his fondest school memories. He answered questions about his most difficult opponents and his most talented teammates and expressed his disappointment at England’s early exit from the competition as hosts.

42 Sport Olympic medallist honoured Sports centre opened to re-open sports hall Jason Gardener MBE, Olympic Gold An Olympic silver medallist felt He then unveiled the plaque to Medallist (2004) and President Elect “privileged” to watch the next celebrate the facility’s complete of UK Athletics was welcomed by generation of female athletes in makeover. Prior Park College’s Headmaster, action when he officially re-opened “I was here when the sports hall James Murphy-O’Connor, as the a school’s revamped sports hall. opened and none of you were Bury Sports Centre was officially Old Monmothian, Lord even born,” former Olympic rower opened before a large group of Colin Moynihan, returned to Lord Moynihan told the girls. students, staff, parents and friends. Haberdashers’ Monmouth School “Twenty-six years later and I’m here The Headmaster thanked all for Girls – 26 years after he first to re-open it. It looks fantastic. It’s those many people who had opened the sports hall. so good to see a sports facility that The ex Sports Minister and latterly has been upgraded. All the talent of contributed to make the Sports chairman of the British Olympic the future is in here – to see some Centre a reality including the Association watched pupils from of the netball players, the head of Governors, staff, parents and Inglefield House using the new rowing and those of you at national donors. Governor and major climbing wall and the School’s top sports level is a great honour. donor Mr Tony Bury came in netballers, including Evie O’Connor “I’m an Old Boy of Monmouth for special mention for his The multi-million pound complex who has been selected to play for School, so to see such good generosity, with the Sports includes a gymnasium the size Wales, on the upgraded flooring. quality facilities here is fantastic. Centre bearing his name as a of four badminton courts, a Sport is about training and putting result. Both the Headmaster and dedicated fitness centre with the hours in, but ultimately it’s Jason spoke of the central role about enjoyment. thirty state-of-the-art stations, that sport had played in their a large classroom with direct “This school has a reputation which lives, their passion for it and the is right up there with the very, viewing into the Sports Centre, very best in sport. To have that benefits they gained from it. four changing rooms, a medical reputation and such a wide range Lord Sebastian Coe, who had room, an office and function of sports is very important. It’s just intended to join the celebration, space leading onto a large a privilege for me to see the next sent his apologies and best viewing gallery overlooking the generation coming through. wishes, and will visit the College cricket pitches and the all- Pictured (L to R): Mrs Hilary Phillips, Headmistress of Inglefield House, Mrs Caroline Pascoe, Headmistress of HMSG, Lord Colin Moynihan and Miss Kerry Marshall, Director of Sport at HMSG. at a later date. weather pitches.

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00000 Kubota RTV Ad 135mm x 190mm.indd 1 04/12/2015 17:02 Sport 43 Classroom technology ‘hardly used’ by teachers A new study by Canvas, a cloud-based learning management platform for academic institutions and companies worldwide, reveals that 3D printing added millions of pounds worth of high tech is lying unused in UK schools, as to timetable teachers lack the confidence and proper training to use it. Girls at St Helen and St Katharine, Oxfordshire, have been New research reveals that nearly Having technology in the The picture in Britain’s 3D printing and laser-engraving half of teachers (46 per cent) classroom without finding independent schools is brighter at their futuristic new 3D Design effective ways to integrate as usage is significantly higher rarely use the technology in their Centre. it into the learning process (at 55 per cent) although even classrooms, despite taxpayers The £500,000 facility which has been shown to negatively more teachers than in the state picking up an estimated £900 was officially opened in early impact student outcomes. When sector describe the training they million bill to put it there. This November by world-renowned integrated effectively, more than receive as inadequate. ‘tech dormancy’ could be having ceramic artist Magdalene a third (36 per cent) of teachers a detrimental impact on learning, The findings come at a time Odundom, boasts two workshops agree that classroom tech can according to education experts. when the Department for where pupils will get creative improve results. Education is pushing hard for in design technology (DT) and The survey asked teachers The barriers to this usage are teachers to integrate technology ceramics classes, experimenting about their usage of a range complex, but the research into lessons, with Education with metal, acrylic, jewelry of hardware and software, suggests broad scepticism among Secretary Nicky Morgan recently making and pottery. from tablets and computers the teaching community about saying “there has never been Rebecca Dougall, headmistress, to interactive whiteboards and the efficacy of some technology, a more exciting time to think said: “It’s a really exciting e-learning systems – technology with a third (33 per cent) unsure about the way in which emerging project. Lots of the girls are now present in most classrooms how to integrate it into their technologies can transform the interested in architecture and in Britain. teaching. world of education”. engineering. We hope that this new building will inspire those The survey asked about the usage of 4 items of technology (computers for students e.g. desktops and ambitions.” laptops, tablets for students, smart boards e.g. interactive whiteboards, video and digital equipment e.g. DVDs, digital cameras and learning management systems. Mrs Dougall said design subjects are on the school’s curriculum Question: And are these technologies used regularly? (By regularly we mean more than once a day in your classroom) (overall used regularly: and as important as maths or 46.1% and overall not used regularly: 53.9%) science. “Sometimes we hear Primary schools Secondary schools Independent schools State schools Grammar or academy/grant maintained about science, art and maths as very separate subjects but Not used regularly 46.8 45.3 44.7 45.4 48.4 that’s totally false. They all come Used regularly 53.2 54.7 55.3 54.6 51.6 together in such a dynamic process,” she said. Question: Using technology in the classroom improves students’ results (overall: 36.4%) The Centre houses a 3D printer Primary schools Secondary schools Independent schools State schools Grammar or academy/grant maintained and a laser cutting machine, Agree and strongly 40.8 33.5 40.9 37.8 33.3 which the girls can use during agree (%) lessons or in after-school clubs. Question: I am unsure how to integrate technology into the curriculum and use it less than I would like to (overall: 32.6%) Introduction of Primary schools Secondary schools Independent schools State schools Grammar or academy/grant maintained

Agree and strongly 33.8 32 33.4 31.3 35.6 senior years agree (%) Kingswood House School, Surrey, founded in 1899, is to introduce Question: I don’t feel I have had the proper training to use technology - agree and strongly agree answers (overall: 46.6%) senior years up to age 16. Primary schools Secondary schools Independent schools State schools Grammar or academy/grant maintained Mr Peter Brooks, Headmaster, Agree and strongly 49.2 46.1 43.9 49.3 40.1 agree (%) said: “We have provided a hugely successful education, across the breadth of abilities, for boys up Question: A ‘learning management system’ is an education software application, which helps teachers with the administration, documentation, tracking, reporting and delivery of educational programmes and enables online communication and feedback between teachers and students. to age 13, we are extending that Before taking this survey did you know what this technology was? provision, with the same ethos, Primary schools Secondary schools Independent schools State schools Grammar or academy/grant maintained to senior years, where we will

No, I have never 38.5 22.5 24.2 32.3 18.2 continue to educate boys and all heard of this type will receive the unique learning of technology (%) experience that KHS offers”.

44 Independent Schools Magazine Space heater with impressive energy savings performance Rinnai Energysaver fanned Sporting a modern, sleek casing, convection powered flue gas the heater simply blends into the fired space heaters are designed background while still offering specifically for use in schools where exceptionally high efficiencies in they offer fastest heat up at lowest operation and subsequently reduced running cost. running costs. Rinnai has also Removing obstacles to provided the appliance with a no- quibble 15-year guarantee on the grammar education heat exchanger, positive proof of its confidence in the superiority of its One of the largest remaining on the campus. The rooms give quality Japanese engineering. Grammar Schools in the UK has greater scope than that provided by taken a holistic approach to the existing standard wheelchair- Rinnai Energysaver 309FT, with its enabling its students to fulfil its aim accessible toilets on-site, and ensure low surface temperature (LST) casing of equipping students for a full and accessible toilet provision is achieved to avoid any risk of burns, offers constructive place in society. across the main campus buildings. easy on/off operation and intelligent Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for features such as self-diagnostics With more space, to enable student and a self-learning pre-heat time to Boys was approached by the parents and carer to access equipment, of a young boy with Duchennes maximise heat up time and energy both hygiene rooms have height muscular dystrophy, who wanted consumption. adjustable washbasins, height The Rinnai Energysaver 309FT has their son to access the benefits The Rinnai Energysaver 309FT adjustable changing benches, had a stylish makeover to offer of education at the school, but delivers warm air at floor level for hoists and Clos-o-Mat Palma Vita contemporary cabinet styling that appreciated the nature of his illness greater comfort and coverage of automatic ‘wash and dry’ toilets matches its superior energy saving meant he may have difficulty using even greater spaces and turns in with touch-sensitive switch. performance. The new, sleek good certain facilities- including school looks of this popular model bring it efficiencies of 85.9%. Because the toilets- now and in the future. Clos-o-Mat has used its expertise in in line with modern minimalist tastes heater heats from the floor up and The School’s solution was to turn the field to produce white papers on in interior aesthetics. It is eminently modulates gas usage in relation to to accessible school toilet expert accessible school toilets in general, suited for architects, specifiers room temperature, the unit provides Clos-o-Mat, with main contractor and specifically hygiene rooms, both and installers tasked with projects unparalleled levels of comfort Spencer Francis, to help supply of which are available for download demanding both top end styling and combined with efficiency for large and install two new hygiene rooms on its website. performance. spaces.

www.clos-o-mat.com www.rinnaiuk.com Increased range of gym, Keeping in touch leisure & play mats Quattro have added an artificial of 120kgs/m3. Providing a safe grass/turf interlocking EVA tile environment for young children to their range of gym, leisure & on the move with a high degree of RadioPro have been supplying play mats. protection from falls. schools and clubs with handheld The tiles are twin layer with a Turf Tile fully interlock on all sides two way radios for over 10 years. Our customer service team are perforated EVA base & a fine providing softness & protection for gym, karate, exercise, play & trade on hand with full knowledge of artificial turf surface to EN71 stand areas. They are simple to lay all our handheld radio ranges to standard. The tiles have a softness with a jigsaw interlock & easily ensure you get the best product of 38-42 Shore C & a density remove where a temporary surface available for your requirements, is required. whilst helping you keep to budget. safety, and security of children They are suitable for indoor/ We offer all the leading and staff in schools, is becoming outdoor application & improve manufacturer brands and have increasingly important and yet appearance in many areas over optional easy licensing available if budget does not always allow standard black rubber products. you want to benefit from a much these areas to be addressed as longer range than the license fully as each school may like. Surfaces can be wiped, swept or free options, at a fraction of the Contact us today and you may be hosed & dry quickly due to the cost of a professional license. surprised how cost effective our perforated base. We understand that health and solutions can be. For samples of more information please contact Quattro on 01768 864977 or visit our website www.quattro.org.uk Tel: 01768 864977 Tel: 0844 812 6009 www.quattro.org.uk www.radiopro.co.uk

Products and Services 45 Reclamation In Education Green service providers for surplus Design - Construction - Maintenance - Refurbishment furniture & timber waste streams. Experts in natural & Fees payed direct to Educational non-turf sport surfaces The Establishment, Lower project waste fees, T: +44(0) 1604 864 575 E: [email protected] W: www.total-play.co.uk less waste to landfill, UK wide collections. Digest Tel: 01271 830737 Email: [email protected] www.r-i-e.co.uk

RadioPro are suppliers of two way radios suitable for all areas of education. From budget options for school yard safety right through to high end options for maintenance teams, school trips or sporting events. We also have economical solutions for keeping more extensive school buildings in touch. Whatever your requirements, we can Lowering heating costs and cutting carbon help you find the best solution to compliment your budget. emissions with biomass fuelled boilers www.radiopro.co.uk Design, install, service and maintain Over 100 years of solid fuel DR 50x90 141015.qxp_ark 15/10/2015 10:43 Page 1 and biomass experience. DESIGN : CONSTRUCTION : RENOVATION Tel: 0112 604050 Email [email protected] www.ashwellbiomass.com

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46 Independent Schools Magazine Heads Hunted New for 2016 Among the upcoming head and principal appointments: Free e-copy of ISM for you!

Christ’s Hospital School Sussex November~December 2015 Dorset House School Sussex Eastbourne College Sussex Fettes College Edinburgh St. Gabriel’s School Berkshire Wellow House School Nottinghamshire Whitgift School Surrey School Office Staffroom Registrar Bursar Head Chair If you would like mention made of your ...the professional journal for Management & Staff upcoming head or principal appointment for Independent Schools Magazine has been at the forefront of independent which applications are sought please let us education since 2007, with a printed copy delivered by Royal Mail to heads and know – there is no charge for a listing. bursars throughout the UK. It is the leading professional journal for the sector. News items, contributions, comments and Now you can enjoy a free personal e-copy. suggestions are always welcomed by the editor. Simply register your email address at: Please email to: www.independentschoolsmagazine.co.uk [email protected] Your email addresses will never be sold or otherwise made available to third parties, and you can cancel at any time. Schools featured in this issue include: Abingdon School Cranleigh School King Edward’s School Prior Park College St. Petroc’s School Adcote School Denstone College King’s Ely Queen Ethleburga’s St. Teresa’s School Alderley Edge School for Girls Derby High School Kingswood House School Radnor House School Terrington Hall School Ballard School Ellesmere College Leicester High School Rendcomb College Thames Christian College Barrow Hills School Felsted school Loughborough Grammar School Rishworth School Ursuline Preparatory School Beechwood Sacred Heart School Haberdashers’ Monmouth School Magdalen College School Scarisbrick School Warwick Junior School Benenden School for Girls Marist School Sherborne School Blundell’s School Handcross Park School Maynard School Sidcot school Warwick School Bolton School Hatherop School Merchiston Castle School St. Benedict’s School Withington School Box Hill School Hipperholme Grammar School Mill Hill School St. Edward’s Prep School Woldingham School Bredon School Hurst Lodge School Milton Abbey School St. Gabriel’s School Wycliffe College Cheltenham Ladies’ College King Alfred School Oakwood School St. Helen and St. Katharine Wycombe Abbey

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, Dorset House School, Sussex Henry Briggs: Senior Partner, HW, Chartered Accountants Birmingham and a Deborah Leek-Bailey, OBE: 2008 Chair of the Independent Schools former school Governor Association (ISA), Independent School representative with the National Elisabeth Lewis-Jones: a governor of School, Oxfordshire; 2008 President College for School Leadership and former Head teacher of Babington House of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations and Director of Liquid Public Relations, School, Kent a consultancy with expertise within the education sector Tory Gillingham: General Secretary of AMDIS – the Association of Marketing and Helen Fraser CBE: Chief Executive of the Girls’ Day School Trust; formerly Development in Independent Schools Managing Director of Penguin Books Alex Beynon: Former Head of Press Relations, Independent Schools Council (ISC) Kevin Fear: Head, Nottingham High School Ed Holmes: Head of Media and Communications, Independent Schools Council (ISC)

Subscriptions: £3 per issue, or £20 per Key Partners: All rights reserved. Any form of reproduction of this magazine in part or whole is prohibited without the written consent of the publisher. annum (ten issues) payable in advance by Commercial – Jeff Rice Any views expressed by advertisers or contributors may not be those cheque to Bull Nelson Ltd (please remember Editorial – Kimble Earl of the publisher. Unsolicited artwork, manuscripts and images are Production – Andrew Wicks accepted by the publisher on the understanding that the publisher to include your name and full address) to: cannot be held responsible for loss or damage however caused. All Direct Lines & email addresses: material, copy, and artwork supplied is assumed to be copyright free The Independent Schools Magazine unless otherwise advised in writing. Advertisement bookings are Editorial, Accounts, Distribution: 01491 671998 accepted subject tonormal terms and conditions – see website. PO Box 4136 [email protected] Upper Basildon Independent Schools Magazine is Advertisement Sales: 01235 838560 Reading published by Bull Nelson Limited. [email protected] Reg in England No 2876999. Berkshire RG8 6BS Production: Andrew Wicks Copyright Bull Nelson Ltd. www.independentschoolsmagazine.co.uk Email: [email protected] Printed by Manson Group.

Independent Schools Magazine 47 A4sportsadsept3.pdf 3/9/15 07:35:25

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