May 2015

Chair Head Bursar Registrar Staffroom School Office ...the professional journal for Management & Staff Our front page pictures In this issue... “ The floor is the Prep School Launches Bacc 05 dancers’ friend; ~ thinking behind new initiative Pupil Numbers ‘Highest Since Records Began’ 8 ~ 9 after all they are in ~ ISC survey findings contact with it the Mindfulness Conference 12 ~ school to share seven-years of experience whole time when Public speaking ‘The Biggest Problem with Communication 16 ~ 18 national winners they are performing.” is Believing it has Taken Place’ Farnborough Hill School, Hampshire, Senior Public Speaking Team are the winners of the ~ Talking Point English Speaking Union’s National Public Speaking Competition for Schools 2014-15. Well Educated ~ For What? 23 400 teams from across England and Wales ~ ‘we must give children a sense of purpose’ had been whittled down to eight schools, who were invited to Churchill College, Cambridge to compete in one final round. The event was Profile 24 ~ 25 Lynn Wallis attended by a range of guests drawn from the ~ in conversation with David Williams ESU and Cambridge University, notably The Artistic Director Rt Hon. the Lord Boateng and Mr Randolph Royal Academy of Dance Churchill. ‘Emotional Well-being at the Top of the Agenda’ 26 Sophia Taylor took to the stage with her ~ changing the landscape of education speech entitled, ‘Well-behaved women seldom make history.’ She discussed the role of women Developing Numeracy Through Talk 41 throughout history and delivered a clear message ~ mathematics is not only about numbers “There are many things that a dancer has to contend with. They about the role of feminism in the modern era. As have to remember the steps, perfect the technique, listen to the chair and questioner, Isabella Embleton and Isobel Walter showed themselves capable under pressure, music, respond to the music and they have to perform. One of the by listening carefully to challenging ideas, and Plus things they don’t want to have to worry about is the floor they are assisting the audience in understanding these. dancing on, and they know that with Harlequin they will be secure. School expands to Mediterranean 04 The prizes were awarded by Randolph Churchill, Sport ~ ‘don’t specialise too early’ 06 Equally, as a teacher you spend many hours standing and it is a on behalf of the sponsor the Churchill Centre, Character scholarship launched 07 comfort to know that at the end of your day, your body is still going Lord Boateng, Chairman of the ESU, and Jane

to feel like you can walk home! You want to be able to demonstrate Photo courtesy of Royal Academy Dance Easton, Director General of the ESU. Heads experience school life ‘for real’ 10 ~ 11 a movement without worrying about the surface, slipping or lumps Pictured: The Farnborough Hill public speaking team Risk management ~ engaging staff 14 with their coach Sarah Campbell. in the floor. Also, it’s about the health and safety of the dancers, and Libraries & Languages Focus Feature 20 ~ 22 that is hugely important. Music & Drama Focus Feature 27 ~ 31 The flooring has to be appropriate for all types of genre. You look Raising bursary provision Buildings & Going Green Focus Feature 32 ~ 40 at value for money, but it’s also the care and the attention that As part of their Centenary Celebrations, Bolton Changing Places... Changing Faces... 42 Harlequin as an organisation gives to the Royal Academy of Dance School, Lancashire, have launched a 100 New Products & Services; The Digest 45 ~ 46 one of the many reasons for choosing Harlequin”. Campaign. The intention is to raise the school’s bursary pot from £20m to £50m in the next Heads Hunted 47 fifteen years which would allow 1 in 3 of pupils to receive financial assistance with their fees. The Campaign was launched at a Centenary Dinner. Is Your School Mentioned? See page 47 for an A~Z listing Lynn Wallis Full story page 7 Contact Us; Editorial Advisory Board; Key Personnel; Subscription Offer ~ page 47 Artistic Director Royal Academy of Dance LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL A SCHOOL OR NURSERY British Harlequin plc LONDON Festival House, Chapman Way LUXEMBOURG Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3EF BERLIN PARIS Lynn adds that Royal Academy of Dance were absolutely thrilled that National SchoolTransfer Tel: +44 (0)1892 514888 MADRID Darcey Bussell CBE became their new president in 2012. The RAD currently For a Professional – Confidential Service Fax: +44 (0)1892 514222 LOS ANGELES has over 14,000 members worldwide and 1,000 on teacher education Freephone: 0800 28 99 32 PHILADELPHIA programmes. FORT WORTH www.nationalschooltransfer.com Email: [email protected] Tel: +44 (0)1980 621251 www.harlequinfloors.com SYDNEY [email protected] HONG KONG

Independent Schools Magazine 3

Harlequin RAD Testimonial A4 Ad UK Updated.indd 1 22/01/2015 13:29 Catholic school expands Prep school launches to the Mediterranean Bacc initiative Prior Park Schools’ Governors and established in 1946 to complement links with Gibraltar dating back possible and the school opening to Headmasters have announced that the College (established 1830), to the 1830s, with a number of Years 8 through 10 in September Terra Nova School, Cheshire, is set to launch the the Prior Park Educational Trust while The Paragon School joined distinguished alumni living there. 2016, with Years 11 and 12 ‘TN Baccalaureate’ this September. It is described as will be opening a new Catholic Prior Park Schools in 2006.” This, along with the fact that introduced in September 2017 independent senior school in it is a largely Catholic country, The new school will operate from and full Sixth Form provision in ‘an inspiring, progressive and academic curriculum Gibraltar in September 2016. with many families looking for a the former Sacred Heart campus September 2018. An application Catholic/Christian independent delivering the skills for success; independence, Prior Park is the first Catholic which is located in Gibraltar’s for the approval of the Director senior school option, means this independent school group in the picturesque Old Town. Mr Murphy- of Education will shortly be made resilience and rigour.’ What does the initiative mean? formalisation of our links has UK to embrace internationalism in O’Connor added that the benefits to the Ministry for Education at been a very organic process.” this way. to the Prior Park Schools’ group HM Government of Gibraltar with Pictured: Headmaster Mark Mitchell with choir Prior Park was selected by the would be many and wide-ranging; The time line for launching the whom there have already been Terra Nova Headmaster Mark Mitchell said: “Best educational practice is pupils forward. At the centre of everything, pupils will take absolute Gibraltar Secondary School Parents’ “Academic exchanges for our school will see a Headmaster preliminary discussions on this continually evolving but what remains consistently proven in delivering responsibility for their own learning. Group as the preferred bidder from students, employment opportunities and Bursar appointed as soon as exciting project. future success is a set of core skills; we have always had a strong a competitive field of UK school for our staff, along with tours as With a long-standing tradition of academic success, including a 100% pass curriculum focused on developing the skills of independence, resilience groups. The Parents’ Group said part of sports teams, choirs and rate at 11+ and 13+ and 60 scholarships awarded in the last five years, and rigour but the introduction of the TN Baccalaureate will further that they were impressed, not only CCF, summer school placements, many people are asking why Terra Nova would want to change. In fact, the enhance our provision”. with the performance, values and and the sharing of Teaching and change came about when the school looked into launching a Baccalaureate ethos as demonstrated amongst Learning initiatives between our The skills based approach will enable the school to ensure that all pupils style qualification for their Year 7 & 8 pupils. staffrooms. The extraordinarily are not only equipped with the skills they need for their future school, the UK based Prior Park schools, Mr Mitchell added: “When we looked into this in more detail, we were unique location of Gibraltar as a but also looking ahead to the job market. but with the depth of experience in so impressed by the breadth of opportunity and depth of study that a gateway to both Africa and the rest starting up new schools amongst The school has reviewed every area of their curriculum in order to Baccalaureate way of learning supplied, that we thought we should run it of Europe also opens up all sorts of the senior leadership team. revolutionise teaching content and the way in which they push their through the whole school.” linguistic and cultural possibilities Prior’s Executive Principal, James for our community.” Murphy-O’Connor (pictured) said Why launch the TN each experts in their own areas of forward. This is the best skill we Will teachers have to that the new school will be the Mr Murphy-O’Connor believes Baccalaureate? learning, and we were keen to give could teach any pupil, and it lies at change their approach? fourth school to come under the both the time and place are them the responsibility of devising the heart of what we do. Of course, We thought originally that we would Our staff are constantly changing Prior Park umbrella which includes ideal; “Our Vision 2020, which a new curriculum. We wanted them the topics we teach will continue to like to launch a Baccalaureate style their approach to teaching, to fit Prior Park College in Bath, Prior was published two years ago, to be full stakeholders in the new be exciting and interesting, but the qualification for our Year 7 and 8 in with the varying demands of Park Prep School in Cricklade, advocates developing Prior Park direction the school was taking, values of the TN Baccalaureate will students, to ensure that they were year groups. However, there will Wiltshire and the Paragon Junior Schools with further educational and to be newly enthused with now be at the heart of all that we fully equipped with the skills they certainly be a shift in approach School in Bath; “Our schools have opportunities as and when they their roles. We have also listened do. We are, literally, all on the same needed going forward to their from staff to ensure that they are reaped the benefits from being present themselves both at whole-heartedly to feedback from page! future school, and looking ahead able to cover all of the elements forward thinking over the centuries, home and abroad. Prior Park has governors, parents and children, and to the job market. Once we looked Have lesson plans been of the Baccalaureate. Certainly, a with Prior Park Prep School being long-held and much cherished the TN Baccalaureate has evolved into it in more detail, however, we extensively altered? Have more cohesive approach to planning according to these responses. Most were so impressed by the breadth additional elements been will be required, with teaching of all, our school values give the TN of opportunity and depth of study added to the curriculum? working in partnership with each The Griffen soars – space balloon launched Bacc its strength: Traditional Values, that a Baccalaureate way of learning other. In terms of delivery of the Fresh Thinking. This is our next step, which we are in Abingdon School, Oxfordshire, 29,410m and the temperature at video footage from two GoPros, supplied, that we thought we should curriculum, teachers will wish to the process of completing (ready for witnessed the launch of a high burst was -39.6 degrees C. there was a large amount of data run it through the whole school. TN How will you use ensure that every element of the launching in September). Staff are altitude balloon, named ‘The The balloon carried a payload with to analyse. strives to be at the very forefront and benefit from the TN Baccalaureate is covered and now in the process of reviewing all Griffen’, designed and built by a variety of experiments. As well One of the aims of the project was of educational thinking, whilst promoted, so their approach will curriculum? of their planning, in order to ensure 12 lower sixth physicists, with as the GPS module transmitting to inspire and educate pupils about retaining the traditional values that change. We have reviewed every single that what they are teaching allows expert guidance from European information on position over a space science and technology and have made us a popular choice for area of our curriculum, and students to progress through the TN Would elements of it Astrotech, a leading company in radio link to the ground station, over the 12 weeks the boys had parents all over Cheshire. The TN used the introduction of the TN Baccalaureate assessment grids. This benefit other independent the Space industry. The balloon there were measurements of to get to grips with the telemetry Baccalaureate will ensure that our Baccalaureate as an excellent will mean the inclusion of elements schools? had been designed to climb to the temperature, humidity and air software, perform calculations to educational provision continues opportunity to revolutionise what they may not have considered edge of space (around 30,000m) pressure. The pupils designed determine the amount of hydrogen to evolve to prepare students for a Yes, of course. We had considerable we teach. By looking at the ‘why’ before, for example, Critical Thinking and return to earth later that day. experiments to study the change gas required to lift the payload to modern world where both academic support from other Prep schools of learning, and critically evaluating or the TN Qualities. The lessons The boys tracked the balloon’s in colour, that is blueness due to the required height and also to ability and the skills of learning to who have trialed similar ideas and the ‘how’, we are pushing our pupils in the first year, therefore, will be progress, and were ready in a Rayleigh Scattering, of the sky and design and build a stable payload. learn are equally valued. we would relish the opportunity forward. At the centre of everything, changed in a subtle way. We are of sharing our own good practice. minibus to collect it from the also the change in UV levels with A wide spectrum of scientific What makes it what it is? our pupils are encouraged to take saving more extensive renovation There is no better way to lead than landing site. The balloon landed altitude. The sensors collecting disciplines from atmospherics The TN Baccalaureate has been absolute responsibility for their own for the following year, when the TN to look at the way others learn and around 12km from the School. this information were connected through Chemistry and Physics to A shot from the balloon's travels. written by our staff. They are learning: to know how to move Baccalaureate is embedded. mould it to your own needs. The maximum height reached was to a Raspberry Pi and along with engineering were explored.

4 Independent Schools Magazine Independent Schools Magazine 5 1847 Society dinner Bursary campaign Glenalmond College, Perth, in “I wanted guests to feel very Celebrating 100 years since Lord Leverhulme created partnership with Gleneagles Hotel, comfortable and ‘at home’ here the Bolton School Foundation, the school launched played host to the relaunch of the and I thought a touch of humour The 100 Campaign for Bolton School Bursaries at its 1847 Society Dinner last month was just the way to kick-start this Centenary Dinner, held at the School. (April). important evening.” Indeed it was. The Society consists of members Pipe Major Alasdair Johnston’s Headmistress Sue Hincks said: delighted to have already secured who have pledged a legacy to welcoming medley of competition “In 1915 Leverhulme’s vision had £1.26m as it launches The 100 Glenalmond. During his after-dinner music, including Arthur Bignold of been to give the brightest children Campaign. speech, Gordon Woods, Warden, Lochrusque and the Jiggernaught, an excellent education, whatever Appealing to the school noted that the College is “greatly added to the warm atmosphere. their background. This remains our community, Philip Britton, appreciative of all gifts, of whatever aim and, during the last century, Upon guests’ arrival, Captains Headmaster of the Boys’ Division, size” and this dinner was to say a we have been a real powerhouse Angus Sandison and Hannah-Jane said: “Bolton School is a special “long-overdue thank you” to the for social mobility in Bolton. We place - one of the great schools Character Headon guided Society members many supporters and their partners. were able to offer open access of the North. We have helped to the Conference Room before up until 1997 when crucial state A warm, sunny evening greeted generations of Boltonians to break ensuring they were offered a taste funding was withdrawn. The guests as they congregated under through social barriers and achieve of the especially created ‘1847’ principle of open access remains our quad clock at 18:47 and progressed success in the wider world. The scholarship cocktail: a heady brew of vintage priority and since 1997 the school campaign is deliberately ambitious to a Champagne reception. cognac, sugar water and mint, community has built a bursary fund but very much achievable for a Craig Fleming, Director of created specifically for the night by of £20m. This means, today, 1 in number of reasons: our long- Development, commented on the Tony Abbott, Head of Catering at every 5 pupils receives financial standing commitment to keep launched choice of meeting point, saying: the College. support but this is still not enough: access open, it is something we Lord Wandsworth College, Hampshire, has launched for every bursary pupil we admit, do rather than something we have another talented child is turned been required to do by political a new Character Scholarship for September 2016. away because of a lack of funding. pressure; we have shown over the Over the last year, the college has The LWC Character Scholarship Our aim is to be able to fund 1 in years that if we commit to move placed character education at the recognises young people 3 pupils, taking in the brightest towards a target little by little over heart of its educational provision. who have been exceptional children who apply, no matter what a long time span we can reach our Every aspect of the delivery of in the manner in which they Sport specialism ~ their financial means. To do this, we goal; we already have substantial the school’s curriculum, co- have selflessly served their need to increase our fund from £20 bursary funding on which we can curriculum and pastoral and community, who bring sunshine burn-out warning million to £50 million.” build; and, most importantly, we spiritual provision endeavours to to all that they do and who have The school aims to meet its target have a very special commitment in imbue pupils with 12 character demonstrated that they have Specialising in a sport too young could put pupils off over the next 15 years and its first Bolton from our Old Boys and Old attributes: put the needs of others before goal is to raise £5 million by 2018. Girls who feel a great connection to their own. It could equally be for life, according to David Faulkner, Director of Sport at Performance Moral Fundraising for this target began in the School and its role in shaping Perseverance Generosity someone who consistently shows Millfield School, Somerset, which produced more Olympic September 2014 and the school is their lives.” Optimism Empathy the kind of perseverance and Games alumni at London 2012 than any other school. Creativity Gratitude tenacity to overcome difficulties. Curiosity Courage He recommends multi-sport participation until late Character scholarships are Self-Control Loyalty available at 13+ and up to three adolescence for most disciplines... Engagement Fairness scholarships may be awarded “There is clear evidence wider an intensity that takes away the The Millfield Institute of Sport and wider holistic understanding in areas Senior Deputy Head, Gareth annually with a maximum value of a 25% reduction in the annual participation across a breadth of fun, compromise their athletic Wellbeing was set up in 2014 in such as teamwork, leadership, and Pearson (pictured) said “We place fees. Candidates’ parents need sports is beneficial for long-term development, make them vulnerable recognition of the value of gaining dealing with setbacks. huge importance on the personal wellbeing and provides greater to injury, and lead to psychological wider skills to improve tactical, qualities and virtues of our pupils to complete a formal application “By playing a range of sports before support for those with potential,” pressure that can result in burnout.” technical, mental and physical and believe the development of form and the candidates deciding upon a specialism, young character is the most important themselves need to write a letter said Mr Faulkner, Olympic The dangers of early specialisation development, and to provide an people achieve a level of athletic aspect of education. That is not of application stating why they Gold Medal winner and former have been highlighted by a number edge over competitors. development that enables them to to say that the development of feel they are deserving of this Performance Director for England of studies, including a consensus The aim behind the move was to deal with higher training levels and intellect is not important, but award. The application should and Great Britain Hockey. statement published in the British ensure all pupils engage in athletic to perform more effectively,” added that to what extent a person is also be supported by a letter “Evidence shows that talent and Journal of Sports Medicine on development, enjoy a variety of Mr Faulkner. able to develop their intellect is of recommendation from the enthusiasm in those who specialise reducing risk of burnout and injury sports and provide opportunities At the centenary dinner: Above: Lord Leverhulme’s great as much about their attitude, Head of the candidate’s current in sports between 10 and 12 can in youth sport. to transfer to sports they may have “This is because they are using grand-daughter the Rt Hon habits and beliefs as it is about school. Shortlisted candidates dilute away by the age of 15. never considered. their bodies more effectively than Lady Jane Heber-Percy and her The findings have been supported husband Algernon Heber-Percy intellectual ability. It was an will be invited to the College for This is because, ironically, early they would by focusing upon just by analysis of Team GB at the 2012 The Institute is structured so when are pictured with the current obvious step, therefore, to offer a formal 15 minute interview specialisation can hinder rather than one sport, resulting in their motor Heads, Chairman of Governors Olympic Games which showed the pupils progress to university or and Head Girl and School a scholarship that recognises which will include a three minute benefit sporting development. majority of the high performing professional sport they have all they skills becoming one dimensional, Captain. this, alongside our academic, presentation from the candidate “It can lead youngsters into a athletes had come into their sports need in terms of technical, physical and causing them to hit a physical Right: Four former Heads returned to Bolton School: Jane sport, art and performing arts entitled ‘Why I Deserve a sport not of their choice, create late, at 16-plus or even later. and mental abilities, together with a ceiling.” Panton, Margaret Spurr, Alan scholarships.” Character Scholarship’. Wright and Gill Richards. David Faulkner is Director of Sport at Millfield, and won a Gold medal as a member of Team GB Hockey at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul.

6 Independent Schools Magazine Independent Schools Magazine 7 Highest number of pupils at indepe ndent schools ‘since records began’ Fees by region Pupil numbers at Independent Schools Council (ISC) schools are at their highest levels since records began This table gives average termly fees by region and type of school. in 1974. There are now 517,113 pupils at 1,267 ISC schools. Pupil numbers are now higher than they were before the Boarding fee Day fee Day fee Day fee Region (boarding schools) (boarding schools) (day schools) (average)Overall average fee Contributions to fees ranked by total value of assistance (annual) recession started, and are up from 511,928 in 2014. South East £10,383 £5,947£4,465£4,778 £5,865 Average help % of all pupils Total Greater London £14,291 £8,668£5,098£5,173£5,439 Total (pupils)3 At schools which completed the ISC survey in both 2014 and 2015 pupil numbers are up from 508,000 to 512,048 received by a pupil receiving help (value £m) The North £9,918 £4,513£3,332 £3,466£4,028 The school 143,510 4,911 27.8 705 This increase has been fuelled by both British and international pupils. There are 27,211 international pupils with East Anglia £9,513 £5,595£4,216£4,381£4,918 parents living overseas which is 5.3% of total pupil numbers, little changed from 1982, when the proportion of South West £9,999 £5,262 £3,828£4,453 £6,003 The school: means tested 41,400 8,227 8.0 341 international pupils was 4.4%. West Midlands £9,808 £4,675£3,542£3,724 £4,561 The school: eligible families1 66,260 3,040 12.8 201 There are ten more schools in ISC membership than last year. East Midlands £9,397 £5,691 £3,694£3,914 £4,893 The school: scholarships 52,683 3,090 10.2 163 Scotland £9,312 £5,507£3,427£3,591£4,133 The figures are revealed by the ISC Annual Census 2015. Wales £8,902 £4,267£3,386£3,713£4,893 Early Years funding 24,793 1,963 4.8 49 All £10,123 £5,500£4,093£4,304 £5,099 Local Education Authorities2 1,795 19,519 0.4 35

14% of all school children aged 16 care. It is no surprise that British pupils coming to independent pupils, 170,000, now receive help Government Music and Dance Scheme1,481 19,633 0.3 29 and over now attend an ISC school, independent schools are seen as schools and more demand for with their fees to a record value Destination of post-18 school leavers All other sources 2,772 6,807 0.5 19 with pupils moving to independent amongst the best in the world.” places at our schools here.” of £836 million, up £60 million This table shows the percentage of school leavers in all ISC schools arriving at various destinations post-18. schools throughout their education. Total 167,798 4,98533.3 836 Schools in different parts of the For the first time since the from last year. Pupils are moving between the country have faced different recession, pupil numbers have also state and independent sectors at This reflects the long term aim Mixed- Single-sex: Single-sex: Schools with challenges during the recession. risen in the North. Numbers of all ages, but this is most significant Senior age boys’ girls’ Co-ed boarders Day schoolsTotal pupils at schools in the North now of our schools to increase the in the sixth form, where there are Pupil numbers have increased % to higher education (inc. university) 92.5 91.4 93.9 93.6 91.4 91.4 92.8 92.0 stand at over 69,000. amount of bursary provision and now 89,617 pupils. 7% of school significantly in Wales, with a 4.7% widen access to our schools. Over % to university 90.4 88.9 93.0 91.5 88.8 88.6 91.3 89.7 children overall are educated at increase in pupil numbers to 7,756 Hilary French, Head of the last 15 years there has been independent schools. pupils. Wales has been hard hit by Newcastle High School for Girls, % to re-take A-levels in the independent sector 1.41.1 1.1 0.9 1.4 1.3 1.1 1.3 the economic recession and this is commented: a consistent trend of schools % to re-take A-levels in the mantained sector 0.10.3 0.3 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.2 Julie Robinson, new General the first increase in pupil numbers providing fee assistance to Secretary, Independent Schools “There is a growing mood of % to further education or training 1.51.7 1.2 1.3 1.7 1.7 1.4 1.6 since 2008. increasing number of pupils. Council, said: optimism, a sense that local industry % to employment 1.82.0 1.3 1.0 2.1 2.1 1.5 1.9 Paul Norton, Principal of King’s and businesses are thriving. We are Over 40,000 pupils receive “It is no surprise that parents are % to other2.8 3.6 2.2 3.2 3.3 3.4 2.9 3.2 Monkton School, Cardiff, said: definitely seeing that translate into choosing ISC schools for the crucial means tested bursaries, valued an increased demand for places, Total number recorded 21,438 19,706 4,366 6,693 30,085 23,890 17,254 41,144 sixth form years. ISC pupils have an “Our entry for Year 7 this year at £350 million, an increase of with a lot more interest in our outstanding track record at A-level, has doubled. It is unheard of for 6% compared to last year. The us. We had 33 applications for school, particularly at junior level with 51% of entries achieving A* average bursary is worth £8,277 Teacher numbers 15 scholarship places. Parents are and in the sixth form, where we and A grades, compared to 26% per pupil per year. There are drawn to our small class sizes, have a strong track record locally.” This table shows the number of teachers in all ISC schools by type of school. nationally. the inclusive community and the 5,406 pupils who pay no fees “We are now building a new senior “That means 92% of our pupils flexible curriculum that can meet at all. school building, following our Single-sex: Single-sex: Schools with move onto higher education, with their children’s needs. We have also Full-timeSeniorMixed-age Junior boys’ girls’ Co-ed boarders Day schoolsTotal merger last year with a school that School fees have shown the the majority going to Russell Group invested in new IT facilities and was just 350 metres away.” lowest annual increase, at 3.5%, Men 7,715 8,608 3,924 3,221 1,563 15,46311,346 8,901 20,247 universities.” are offering a computer science since 1994. The average day fee Women 6,103 13,219 8,795 1,945 5,727 20,44511,83516,28228,117 Barnaby Lenon, Chairman, programme run in conjunction with There are also sizeable increases is now £4,174 per term. Fees Total 13,818 21,827 12,719 5,166 7,29035,90823,18125,18348,364 Independent Schools Council, Cardiff University, that is proving in the West Midlands (1.7% commented: very popular with parents. growth) and East Anglia (0.7% reflect the increases all schools Part-time “Over 90% of parents that visit the growth.) There are 36,484 pupils have faced for management and Fees by region “It is remarkable that, although we Men 973 1,257 508 237 340 2,161 1,511 1,227 2,738 school then want a place for their in independent schools in the West administration, teachers’ salaries are only at the start of an economic Women 2,876 6,122 3,758 717 2,892 9,147 5,670 7,086 12,756 This table gives average termly fees by region and type of school. child. Parents tell us they are being Midlands and 61,331 in East Anglia. Feesrecovery, by region the number of pupils at and pensions, as well as rising Total 3,849 7,379 4,266954 3,23211,308 7,181 8,313 15,494 This tableUK gives independent average termly fees by regionschools and type is of school.at the helped by grandparents and cutting An unprecedented number of maintenance costs. Boarding fee Day fee Day fee holidaysDay fee to get the best for their Region (boarding schools) (boardinghighest schools) level sinceBoarding(day records fee schools began) Day fe e (averageDay fee )OverallDay averagefee fee Part-time hours Region (boarding schools) (boarding schools) (day schools) (average)Overall average fee Contributions to fees ranked by total value of assistance (annual) children.” Contributions to fees ranked by total value of assistance (annual) South East £10,383 Southin East £5,941974.7£ It shows£10,383 that parents4,465£ £5,947£4,46,7785£4,778 £5,865 £5,865 Men 13,330 19,868 7,838 3,509 5,088 32,43921,94319,09441,036 Average help % of all pupils Total Greater London £14,291 £8,668£5,098£5,173£5,439 Total (pupils)3 Average help % of all pupils Total Greater London £14,291 continue£8,668£ to value an independent5,098£ Dr Adam5,173£ England, Director5,439 of receivedTotal by (pupils a pupil )3 receiving help (value £m) The North £9,918 £4,513£3,332 £3,466£4,028 received by a pupil receiving help Women (value £m) 44,454 106,231 66,02412,11048,936 155,66394,386122,324216,709 The school 143,510 4,911 27.8 705 The North £9,918 East Angliaeducation.£4,513£ £9,513 3,332 £5,595£the £3,46Welsh4,216£6£ Independent4,381£4,028 Schools4,918 South West £9,999 £5,262 £3,828£4,453 £6,003 TheThe school: school means tested 41,400 8,227143,510 8.0 4,911 341 27.8 Total 705 57,784 126,100 73,863 15,619 54,024 188,102 116,328 141,418 257,746 East Anglia £9,513 £5,595£4,216£4,381£4,918 West Midlands £9,808 £4,675£Council,3,542£ said: 3,724 £4,561 “ISC schools offer consistently high The school: eligible families1 66,260 3,040 12.8 201 South West £9,999 East Midlands£5,262 £9,397 £3,828££5,691 £3,694,4534£3,914 £6,003 £4,893 Overall full-time equivalent (32.5 hours = 1 full-time) TheThe school: school: scholarships means tested 52,683 3,09041,400 10.2 8,227 163 8.0 341 Scotlandstandards, reflected£9,312 in a tremendous£5,507£ “There3,427£ are new employers3,591£ coming4,133 West Midlands £9,808 £4,675£3,542£3,724 £4,561 Early Years funding 24,793 1,963 4.8 49 Walesrecord of academic£8,902 achievement,£4,26 7£to Wales,3,386£ such as3 ,71Sony,3£ Pinewood4,893 The school: eligible families1 66,260 3,040 12.8 Men 201 8,125 9,219 4,165 3,329 1,720 16,46112,021 9,488 21,510 All £10,123 £5,500£4,093£4,304 £5,099 Local Education Authorities2 1,795 19,519 0.4 35 East Midlands £9,397 stimulating£5,691 opportunities£3,69 for4£ and 3Ford,,914 bringing new£4,89 employees3 GoThevernment school: Music scholarships and Dance Scheme1,481 19,63352,683 0.3 3,090 29 10.2 Women 163 7,471 16,488 10,827 2,318 7,233 25,23514,73920,04634,785 Scotland £9,312 £5,507£3,427£3,591£4,133 Destinationpupils of outside post-18 schoolthe classroom leavers and a and they are boosting the local All other sources 2,772 6,807 0.5 19 This table shows the percentage of school leavers in all ISC schools arriving at various destinations post-18. Early Years funding 24,793 1,963 4.8 Total 49 15,596 25,707 14,992 5,647 8,95241,69626,76029,53456,295 Wales £8,902 professional£4,267£ approach to3 ,38pastoral6£ economy.3,713£ We are seeing4,89 more3 Total 167,798 4,98533.3 836 Mixed- Single-sex: Single-sex: Schools with 2 All £10,123 £5,500£Senior4,093£age boys’ girls’4,304Co-ed boarders Day school£5,09sT9 otal Local Education Authorities 1,795 19,519 0.4 35 % to higher education (inc. university) 92.5 91.4 93.9 93.6 91.4 91.4 92.8 92.0 Government Music and Dance Scheme1,481 19,633 0.3 29 % to university8 Independent Schools90.4 Magazine88.9 93.0 91.5 88.8 88.6 91.3 89.7 Independent Schools Magazine 9 Destination of post-18 school leavers % to re-take A-levels in the independent sector 1.41.1 1.1 0.9 1.4 1.3 1.1 1.3 All other sources 2,772 6,807 0.5 19 % to re-take A-levels in the mantained sector 0.10.3 0.3 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.2 This table shows the percentage of school leavers in all ISC schools arriving at various destinations post-18. % to further education or training 1.51.7 1.2 1.3 1.7 1.7 1.4 1.6 Total 167,798 4,98533.3 836 % to employment 1.82.0 1.3 1.0 2.1 2.1 1.5 1.9 % Mito othexed-r2Single-sex: Single-sex: .8 3.6 Schools2.2 with3.2 3.3 3.4 2.9 3.2 Senior Total numberage recorded boys’ girls’21,438 Co19,706-ed 4,366boarders6,693 3Day0,085 school23,890sT17,254otal 41,144

% to higher education (inc. university) 92.5 Teacher91.4 numbers 93.9 93.6 91.4 91.4 92.8 92.0 % to university 90.4 This table88.9 shows the number93.0 of teachers in all 91.5ISC schools by type88.8 of school. 88.6 91.3 89.7

% to re-take A-levels in the independent sector 1.41.1 1.1 0.9 1.4Single-sex: Single-1.3sex: Schools1.1 with 1.3 Full-timeSeniorMixed-age Junior boys’ girls’ Co-ed boarders Day schoolsTotal % to re-take A-levels in the mantained sector 0.10Men .3 0.37,715 8,6080.1 3,924 0.2 3,221 1,5630.1 15,46310.21,346 8,9010.2 20,247 Women 6,103 13,219 8,795 1,945 5,727 20,44511,83516,28228,117 % to further education or training 1.51.7 1.2 1.3 1.7 1.7 1.4 1.6 Total 13,818 21,827 12,719 5,166 7,29035,90823,18125,18348,364 % to employment 1.82Part-time .0 1.3 1.0 2.1 2.1 1.5 1.9 Men 973 1,257 508 237 340 2,161 1,511 1,227 2,738 % to other2.8 Women 3.6 2.22,876 6,1223.2 3,758 3.3 717 2,8923.4 9,147 2.95,670 7,0863.2 12,756 Total number recorded 21,438 To19,706tal 4,3663,849 7,3796,693 4,2630,0856954 23,8903,23211,30817,2547,181 41,1448,313 15,494 Part-time hours Men 13,330 19,868 7,838 3,509 5,088 32,43921,94319,09441,036 Women 44,454 106,231 66,02412,11048,936 155,66394,386122,324216,709 Teacher numbers Total 57,784 126,100 73,863 15,619 54,024 188,102 116,328 141,418 257,746 This table shows the number of teachers in all ISC schools byOv typeerall full-time of school equivalent. (32.5 hours = 1 full-time) Men 8,125 9,219 4,165 3,329 1,720 16,46112,021 9,488 21,510 Women 7,471 16,488 10,827 2,318 7,233 25,23514,73920,04634,785 Total Single-sex:15,596 Singl25,707e-sex: 14,992 5,647Schools8,95 with24 1,69626,76029,53456,295 Full-timeSeniorMixed-age Junior boys’ girls’ Co-ed boarders Day schoolsTotal Men 7,715 8,608 3,924 3,221 1,563 15,46311,346 8,901 20,247 Women 6,103 13,219 8,795 1,945 5,727 20,44511,83516,28228,117 Total 13,818 21,827 12,719 5,166 7,29035,90823,18125,18348,364 Part-time Men 973 1,257 508 237 340 2,161 1,511 1,227 2,738 Women 2,876 6,122 3,758 717 2,892 9,147 5,670 7,086 12,756 Total 3,849 7,379 4,266954 3,23211,308 7,181 8,313 15,494 Part-time hours Men 13,330 19,868 7,838 3,509 5,088 32,43921,94319,09441,036 Women 44,454 106,231 66,02412,11048,936 155,66394,386122,324216,709 Total 57,784 126,100 73,863 15,619 54,024 188,102 116,328 141,418 257,746 Overall full-time equivalent (32.5 hours = 1 full-time) Men 8,125 9,219 4,165 3,329 1,720 16,46112,021 9,488 21,510 Women 7,471 16,488 10,827 2,318 7,233 25,23514,73920,04634,785 Total 15,596 25,707 14,992 5,647 8,95241,69626,76029,53456,295 New £9m arts venue Work has now started on The space for teaching, rehearsal and Squire Performing Arts Centre (The performance – a provision that is Heads experience school SPACe) - a brand new arts venue currently limited. for the city at Nottingham Girls’ The SPACe will feature a flexible 345 High School. Eight years in design seat performance space, orchestra and development, the School has pit and large floor lift to provide planned the £9 million facility multi-purpose use, music rehearsal as it really is for pupils to be a valuable new resource and theory rooms, dressing rooms, for its students and the wider ballet barres, professional lighting, Rachel Dent, head of The Abbey School, Berkshire, and head of the Abbey’s Junior School Nottingham community. School control rooms with professional alumnae, Dame Stella Rimington mixing desks and multi-use acoustic Nicola Dick-Cleland, both went “back to the classroom” for a day to get a real perspective on and Rosemary Squire, OBE, visited design for spoken word and musical life as a pupil. For both of them this proved a highly valuable exercise that will help inform the School for the ground breaking performances. event, along with construction As well as performance facilities how they move forward in leading the school. partners Balfour Beatty. The SPACe will be used to give The state-of-the-art performing Nottingham Girls’ High School Both heads gave their reactions to the experience... arts centre will be available students the opportunity to gain for use by community groups, hands-on experience, learning Nicola Dick-Cleland: which tended to get left in the I seemed to have to change my I will need a little time to reflect arts organisations, schools and the skills of professional theatre sun, and which I loathed. Fruit, clothes quite a lot which we tend on my experience, but it has businesses, beyond school hours. technicians such as lighting, sound Q How did the girls react to you It has been purposefully designed biscuits and water was most not to do as adults. I was surprised certainly convinced me that recording, box office and back stage. joining their class? to widen access to the arts and preferable – indeed the food was at how quickly I felt assimilated we are right to offer depth and Initially they were surprised and for developing community led in a different league – in a good into the class and ‘became’ a breadth in our curriculum (both a little concerned about whether projects. Nottingham’s schools way. I had vegetable curry and pupil. It reminded me that we are in and out of the classroom) and and vibrant local dance, music I had the right equipment or had poppadoms for lunch which were all just human beings at different that girls really benefit from being and theatre groups will have qualified for my ‘Pen Licence’. great. stages of life and in different challenged, whilst also being access to high-quality, affordable They were incredibly friendly and roles. Our similarities outweigh able to take the initiative in their Pictured: (from left to right): welcoming and quickly accepted Q What things were similar? any differences and I found much learning and in their lives. Rosemary Squire OBE, Co-founder and Joint me as ‘one of them’ and I felt in It was good to use an ink pen common ground with my new CEO of the Ambassador Theatre Group Ltd; many ways as if I was 9 again. The Q Having spent a whole day in their Sue Gorham, Head of Nottingham Girls’ High again and I used the same one classmates. I was rather surprised School; Dame Stella Rimington; Taj Khambay, company, do you think 9 year old Independent Schools May 14 135x90.pdf 1 13/05/2014 09:12:15 girls treated me as if I were a pupil, at how much thinking I had to Rachel Dent with year 7 Project Manager, Balfour Beatty; Professor I’d used as a child, which had girls differ greatly to how you were Julian Marsh, Partner, Marsh Grochowski. and I think the fact that I was do and was really impressed with been my father’s. I went to a as a nine year old? In what ways? Rachel Dent: In contrast with my Convent wearing school uniform helped this some of my new friends’ ideas. school which had some really School experience there was no – even my teachers said that they They are more aware of the Q How did the Year 7 girls react to enthusiastic and good teachers Q What was your favourite part of rote learning and instead lots of almost ‘forgot’ I was there. environmental threats to our you joining their classes? and I was reminded just how the day? practical interpretation including Q Have you felt well looked-after? world than I think I was at their much a teacher affects a child’s They looked after me amazingly. I loved the variety of lessons and age, and have more confidence modelling with plasticine to create I was bowled over by how experience, and has a lasting They were really pleased I was activities in which I participated. to interact with adults. However, ear structures in Biology! genuinely caring my new impact. I was superbly taught and finding out about life from their It was very touching to be asked I really don’t think there are any Q What was it like taking a Computer classmates were – whether it was looked after by my teachers and perspective. what games I like to play at fundamental differences and I Science class with a bunch of ‘digital showing me where to put my teaching assistants. Q The teachers weren’t aware in break-time... have certainly been reminded that natives’? water bottle or explaining where advance that you were joining the Q Has anything surprised you Q How will you use what you’ve it is unwise ever to underestimate to stand during netball. I realised classes, how did they react? The girls were very welcoming and just how important it is to have a during the day? learned today? a 9 year old! laughed themselves silly when my No the teachers did not know - I C few friendly faces when you are in animated ‘shark’ spun round in was determined to get as ‘real’ an a new environment or situation. circles – it was educated fun andM experience as possible so wanted not at all intimidating. Y Q What things struck you as them to teach exactly as they would different from your own school on a usual day. They were very Q What has the day taught you CM days? about life as an 11 year old at The surprised but to their credit just went MY There was much more talk with it – even when I perhaps got a Abbey? CY and discussion during lessons little too involved in maths! The girls are lucky to have so many CMY than I remember when I was Q How much of what you learned at opportunities and we are lucky to K at junior school and we were school came back to you? have such great girls given a choice of what lesson I was amazed, it goes to show Q What surprised you about your activities we wanted to do. that what you learn when you are experience? Also, we certainly didn’t have a young stays with you! I haven’t Science lab at my junior school How tired I was! The girls had done probability in more than nor were there clubs going on confidently predicted that I would at lunchtime – I went to do 30 years so was delighted to be shattered by the end of the day Reflection & Yoga with the girls. get 28/30 on my test. What was but I didn’t really believe them. A full We didn’t have specialist PE different, though, was how warm day of mental and physical exertion teachers either. I also preferred and welcoming the lessons were. showed me why the girls are so the breaktime snack – in my Q How did the experience differ from fit and also so good at processing Nicola Dick-Cleland with year 5 day we got little bottles of milk your own school days? information quickly and efficiently!

10 Independent Schools Magazine Independent Schools Magazine 11 Marketing & Admissions Conference Advertorial Feature Mindfulness ~ sharing the message “If you can get a person’s head, Hampton, the boys-only school in South West London, was one of the first schools in the country to incorporate mindfulness within the taught curriculum back in 2008. As well as being one of heart and hands all working to- the most academically successful schools in the UK, its pupils achieve national success across a wide range of sports and in the musical and creative arts and Headmaster, Kevin Knibbs, firmly believes that mindfulness lessons play a key role in this success, and has organised a Conference gether, then you have the person” next month (June) to share the message of mindfulness with other schools... On 17th September 2015 isbi schools looks forward to its fifth annual Marketing & Admissions Tell your average teenager they are Hampton now has six teachers Conference at the beautiful Notre Dame School in Cobham, Surrey. This year’s theme is “The head, going to sit in a classroom and learn teaching mindfulness lessons to Conference Details: to ‘focus on their breathing’ and Fourth Year (Year 10) pupils. They the heart and the hands” and a jammed packed agenda of impressive key note speakers, wide range of you might expect to see a look of follow the .b programme, which Mindfulness in Schools: Enhancing Resilience, interactive workshops and a plethora of useful seminars held by experts in their field; will explore what amused derision on their faces. has been specifically designed for Performance & Wellbeing teenagers by the Mindfulness in Tell them that what you are going influences people’s thinking and decision making, sending delegates away with an effective package of Schools Project (MISP). Pupils learn Friday 5 June 2015 to teach them will help them cope a range of practical techniques that persuasion, a heart full of enthusiasm and a head bursting with new ideas. not only with the pressures of For all those involved in the care and wellbeing of young people in both encourage them to take a moment being a teenager but enable them the independent and state sectors. in their busy lives to ‘stop, breathe This year, isbi schools is delighted to welcome back Geoff Ramm, a ideas that cost nothing. Other workshops and seminars will include PR to produce their best performances Speakers and be.’ These include 7/11 (breathe multi-award winning speaker who has inspired audiences across five for Prep Schools, PR for Senior Schools, Search Engine Optimisation, academically, on the sports field in for the count of seven and • Richard Burnett: Teacher and Housemaster at Tonbridge School, continents. After proving very popular with delegates last year with and in the arts – and you get their Managing the Admissions Journey, What Makes the Perfect School breathe out for 11), FOFBOC (feet on Co-founder & Creative Director of the Mindfulness in Schools Project attention. his “OMG Marketing” seminar, Geoff will return this year with a key Website, Google Analytics, Video, Working with You Tube and Vine, floor, bum on chair) and Beditation (MiSP) note speech and interactive masterclass on “Celebrity Service” to help Analysing Stakeholders, Differentiation and Creating Movement, all So says Hampton head Kevin Knibbs. (to aid restful sleep). schools and colleges discover the gap in their customer service they “It is an integral part of Hampton’s • Chris Cullen: Co-founder & Creative Director of the Mindfulness in specifically tailored for education professionals. The practices are designed to train didn’t even know existed. Other speakers include Steve Head, winner all-round, balanced approach to Schools Project ( MiSP) the attention to settle in the present of the Professional Speakers Association 2014, a dynamic speaker with Attending the event will give you room to think – about your brand, education, which allows our boys • Sarah Silverton: Senior Lecturer at CMRP, Bangor University moment, rather than wandering off your customers, your strategy and yourself. Take a step back from the to develop into happy, fulfilled practical ideas that simply work. Steve will inspire delegates with a or being distracted by anxieties, says • Prof Katherine Weare: Teacher and trainer with the Centre for young men. Mindfulness helps our keynote speech on “Making the 1% Difference” and a stimulating daily pressures and use this headspace to consider the next steps for Head of Mindfulness and Wellbeing Mindfulness Research and Practice, Bangor University. high-achieving pupils to manage workshop on creating an inspiring culture with simple, easy to apply you and your school. at Hampton, Mr Mark Nicholson: • Claire Kelly: Operations Director at MiSP successfully the competing demands For more information or to book your place go to www.isbi.com/conferences “The techniques covered by the they face and supports them in • James Gibbs: Head of Training at MiSP .b course help counter difficult or attaining and sustaining outstanding negative mind-states, encouraging • Kevin Knibbs: Headmaster, Hampton School performance, whilst maintaining a wellbeing and helping students healthy and balanced perspective • Mark Nicholson: Head of Mindfulness & Wellbeing, Hampton School to ground themselves at times on life.” For further information or to book a place: isbi schools Marketing & Admissions when the mind is distracted and so www.hamptonschool.org.uk/mindfulnessconference Mindfulness is a form of mental introduce increased calmness and Conference for Independent Schools 2015 training that develops sustained focus.” attention and effective self- transform any stress I might feel into together some of the world’s leading One Hampton pupil who regularly regulation. It teaches exercises that drive and focus, and helps my mind experts in mindfulness in education puts mindfulness practices to use is encourage an individual to ‘be and body work in unison.” talented rugby player, 16 year-old and will allow delegates the chance present in the moment’ - being Zack Santos, who plays for the Charles Turner, a fourth-year pupil to try mindfulness practices for Learn how to develop successful marketing strategies and create aware of thoughts and feelings School 1st XV and the Harlequins at Hampton with GCSEs ahead of themselves. effective communications both internally and externally to create an but not being overwhelmed and RFC academy: him, has had a similarly positive effective package of persuasion. distracted by them. Big business Kevin Knibbs hopes that those experience. and corporations have identified “I use the 7/11 technique: It helps who attend will recognise how We have a jammed packed agenda full of seminars and workshops delivered by a that mindfulness could contribute to my breathing and allows me to “Mindfulness allows me not to get mindfulness can be an invaluable hand-picked range of experts. Learn from real case studies from other schools and their employees’ personal wellbeing control my emotions and not get overwhelmed – it helps me clear my tool that young people will be able listen to some top class speakers and tailor your agenda by choosing from a great and productivity, and more and overcome by nerves. Mindfulness head and focus so that I can take to draw on for the rest of their lives: range of both seminars and workshops. more schools are now following suit. can effectively allow me to things one step at a time. It has “Recent stories in the media been brilliant for me.” Keynote speakers include Steve Head, Winner of the top award from The highlight the growing pressures Professional Speakers Association in 2014, he is known by his clients as a dynamic; Over the past two years Hampton faced by our young people and has received a steady stream of speaker with practical ideas that simply work! And back by popular demand with his the mental health issues which can new book, Celebrity Service, multi-award-winning speaker, Geoff Ramm, Other requests from teachers and senior sometimes result. In partnership with speakers include Ian Yorston, Director of Digital Strategy, Radley College and Mike leaders interested in learning more parents, we feel that schools have Farmer, Headmaster St Teresa’s in Effingham, Surrey. about how mindfulness has been a crucial role to play in providing successfully integrated into the Only £160 (plus VAT) if booked before 26 June and £195 (plus VAT) thereafter curriculum at the School. In response for pupils’ wellbeing as well as their to this demand the school is hosting academic education. Mindfulness a Mindfulness in Schools Conference can help pupils develop the resilience on June 5 2015, which is open to and personal resources needed all who care for young people both to navigate and overcome the in the maintained and independent difficulties they will all have to face sectors. The conference will bring at some point in their lives.” Head of Mindfulness & Wellbeing at Hampton School Mark Nicholson (Image courtesy Helen Booker Photography)

12 Independent Schools Magazine Independent Schools Magazine 13 Does your school have a positive risk culture? Jon Taylor, head of Education at Marsh, explains how making sure every member of staff is actively engaged with risk management can play a key role in helping independent schools to maintain safer environments and protect hard-won reputations.

The results of a recent survey number of ways. First, and reduce the everyday, cultural management processes. looking at risk management in perhaps most significantly, a focus on risk management. For many schools, this means education, commissioned by positive risk culture is proven Understanding the hallmarks of finding ways to be more creative Marsh*, made for interesting to help avert incidents that a weak risk culture is important about engagement – a mix of reading. The survey found can put pupils and staff at risk. too. These are many and varied, formal training and informal that, while awareness of risk Clearly, safety incidents at school but affected organisations “nudges” or reminders, is vital management issues at senior undermine efforts to provide commonly show a high degree to ensuring desired behaviours management level was strong, a secure environment and can of fragmentation with respect become part of a culture in with 82% of schools and cause serious reputational to expected behaviours, and a which risk management is second colleges having a formal risk damage. low level of accountability for nature. management strategy, just 20% On top of this, efforts to provide actions. Sustained Effort of schools actively engage staff a safe environment have positive With this in mind, schools should A risk culture can be fragile and in managing risk as part of their financial consequences. The consider how members of staff prone to lapse, especially at ongoing training programmes. return on investments in safety, might interpret what is expected times of stress and organisational This is a potentially serious issue. health, and environmental of them and find ways to modify change, so sustained effort is After all, no one person or team programmes is currently perceptions where necessary. vital to ensuring the culture can realistically be expected to estimated to be four to one**, Similarly, it is important to remains robust. Constant oversee everyday risk assessment and schools with strong risk ensure that risk management reinforcement and a focus on and management across an cultures, as evidenced in their practices do not promote a continual learning are vital to IS YOUR SCHOOL’S FIRST AID KIT IS YOUR SCHOOL’S FIRST AID KIT entire school site. Risks of all safety and claims records, can “fixation with checklists” – staff maintaining good practice and shapes and sizes can evolve realise significant discounts on should be prepared to take avoiding the failings that come and emerge on a daily basis, their insurance premiums. MISSING SOMETHING? PUPILS MISSING SOMETHING? PUPILS the initiative when it comes to with complacency. driven by a range of factors – Vulnerabilities and spotting and reporting risks, from loose flooring and blown Challenges The schools that seek to light bulbs, to more significant not just be focused on “ticking strengthen risk culture will PROTECTED BY PERSONAL ACCIDENT PROTECTED BY PERSONAL ACCIDENT The robustness of any boxes”. buildings maintenance issues, organisation’s risk culture can reap the rewards through the and the presence of third party Developing a Robust lower likelihood of accidents never be taken for granted – COVER AND PRIVATE HEALTH CARE? COVER AND PRIVATE HEALTH CARE? contractors on site. even during times of normal Approach and protect themselves from The truth is that risk operation. However, it is during Quite simply, a school has a the reputational damage should management can only be times of organisational stress strong risk culture when its staff, things go wrong. Those that pay effective if everyone plays an that a weak culture can be at all levels, consistently exercise only lip service to the issue or Today, nearly 850 independent schools and over 320,000 pupils are Today, nearly 850 independent schools and over 320,000 pupils are active role in spotting these exposed. sound judgment in the face of adopt a piecemeal approach may protected by our personal accident scheme; with more than 12,000 protected by our personal accident scheme; with more than 12,000 everyday risk. be setting themselves up for a risks. That means developing Issues like financial fall. pupils covered via our private health care scheme. Are yours? pupils covered via our private health care scheme. Are yours? a culture in which everyone underperformance and the need This means that individually understands the importance of to cut costs can lead to corners and collectively they are To keep up-to-date with the risk management and knows being cut, and good practices anticipating risks and reporting latest trends in risk management To find out more, contact us today (quoting IS_MAY15): To find out more, contact us today (quoting IS_MAY15): what to look out for. being forgotten. Similarly, rapid issues of concern, looking out for independent schools join, the Why Make it a Priority? growth, a merger with another for each other and the school, Marsh UK Education Forum on ( 01444 313174 * [email protected] 8 uk.marsh.com/education ( 01444 313174 * [email protected] 8 uk.marsh.com/education A strong risk culture can benefit local school, or an increased use and responding to evolving LinkedIn or visit uk.marsh.com/ an independent school in a of third party suppliers may all situations in line with overall risk education.

* Making the Grade? A Marsh Survey into Risk Management in the Education Sector 2015 ** ASSE, “Financial Decision Makers’ View on Safety: What SH&E professionals should know”, Professional Safety, 2009 Marsh Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Marsh Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority © Copyright 2015 Marsh Ltd. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2015 Marsh Ltd. All rights reserved. Marsh Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Copyright © 2015 Marsh Ltd All rights reserved

14 Finance MAR_EDU_Ad Health MAY 2015.indd 1 30/04/2015 17:11:48 MAR_EDU_Ad Health MAY 2015.indd 1 30/04/2015 17:11:48 Our occasional feature in which heads and other senior Talking educationalists are invited to comment on a proposition... Point

Christopher Wilson, Headmaster, and depth of this communication. constitutes a health issue. Is a manage the final couple of years of parental liaison. Head teachers Lockers Park Preparatory School, We are all in that evolutionary bump in a rugby practice or a “The single biggest problem in communication is of senior schools often ask me and Hertfordshire: time, exploring the best route slightly grazed knee requiring of a my cohort to help wean parents The way the world to follow. Too little information phone call? Not for the majority, – George Bernard Shaw off ‘too much communication’ the illusion that it has taken place.” interacts has evolved and schools are accused of hiding but for a small percentage of and help prepare them for the dramatically over the something and having a lack parents this will be cast as poor Could this apply to some if not many independent schools in their communication with parents? They much more independent, hands- last two decades. of transparency. Too much and communication or even neglect of organise Parents’ Evenings (often a rushed scrum); they issue end-of-term reports; they contact parents if off approach of a senior school, While all businesses parents bemoan the fact that they their child, presenting schools with often driven by pupils themselves. there are any serious issues over academic progress, behaviour or peer-relationships; the school nurse may have felt the pressure of how and lose the vital information amongst a tricky lose-lose situation. This can be quite an adjustment send John or Jenny home with a note about a bump or graze; there may be occasional curriculum or careers when to communicate, this has all the more day to day successes Most schools will have a for those that have been used to been particularly acute in the case and news items. An overwhelming communications strategy and related events. But is this really adequate individual, on-going, month-in-month-out communication focused frequent and interactive dialogue of schools. influx of communication can even a clearly defined calendar specifically child by child? Does it live up to the oft-quoted mantra of individualised education and pastoral with an attentive prep school staff. result in parents not reading any Private schools of the 21st Century approach. Websites will be pivotal, care? If the answer is ‘probably not’, what can and should be done to improve matters? of it. The goal as I see it is to combine provide a very different product to parent portals and intranets are broad news with individually their predecessors. Gone are the Then there is the constantly increasingly the norm, charting a focussed communication. Our Ben Vessey, head, Canford Headmaster’s study was generally reserved for very urgent matters. offering simple insights and updates days of living behind an imaginary evolving landscape of social media child’s progress, merit and conduct approach, as a prep school known School, Dorset: only as the result of their child’s Finding out what parents which should help ease pressures brick wall that kept parents beyond and which channel parents prefer performance, archived reports and I believe this issue is of misdemeanour! require in terms of information, and anxieties from both sides. for its family-orientated approach, the confines of the school campus to use. Parents are at different so forth. There is likely to be then such importance that and tailoring communication has been to establish routines These days parents want to be much A challenge for schools in light with little communication passing stages in their adoption of digital a combination of weekly, quarterly, we recently surveyed methods accordingly, should be a around our comms thereby trying more engaged in their child’s school of these changes is the issue of their way, other than the end of and social media. The more half-termly or termly epistles and the entire school fundamental part of any school’s to create times in the week when life, whether they are boarding communication overload. What newsletters while digital news community to find communications effort. term report. traditional parent may prefer an or day pupils. I believe this is a are ‘reasonable expectations’ in we hope parents will check in, out what they currently felt about appointment or a phone call with screens around schools have real positive, and at Canford we Schools have also moved on in terms terms of what parents receive from Today’s parent wants to be to populate an information- communications with Canford, an email being the stretch. While become more prevalent. very much promote the triangle of the breadth of the education a school and what can reasonably more active and involved in their heavy parent portal, use email for the research findings from which others who operate at the fast of home, school and pupil as a they offer, and with that has come be expected of staff who are under child’s education, something Not only does this seem to require topical matters and promote our have formed the basis of a new pace of business life will only connected effort. However, as new challenges for staff who often, much pressure to deliver quality that modern educationalists have an army of communicators that accessibility by teacher visibility communications strategy. read texts, tweets or check their a result of this change, parents particularly in a boarding school, teaching, learning and care? These been delighted to see, because historically didn’t exist on the throughout the school week for This strategy will be reviewed inevitably want access to a lot more now wear numerous hats such as Instagram account. are key questions which each school we believe that if school, parent payroll, schools know that however those all-important parent chats. on an ongoing basis because information from the school, and sports coach/head of department/ must answer when planning its and child work together as a And of course all schools are aware hard they work at distributing we are living in a fast paced age the advent of email and mobiles house tutor/weekend trips co- When reflecting on this modern communications. triumvirate, a child will get much of the need for an instant response information, there will still be where technology is developing has enabled direct communication ordinator. With the extended range day conundrum, I am all too aware closer to reaching full potential. to any health issues that arise - a some parents who miss vital frighteningly quickly alongside with staff and children 24/7. What of options inside and outside the In such a busy environment, it that I have focused here on the is indeed easy to be under the certainty in communication means information and, as the customer increasingly hectic family lifestyles. we found from our research was classroom, communication internally This has meant more focus on channels of communication. Now, illusion that one has communicated that a telephone call is the only in a service industry, will hold the In the past, parents generally that, at the same time as increased with pupils and staff as well as the dissemination of information, if we were to debate content - effectively when in fact the message real option. school accountable. expected to hand over responsibility involvement needs, parents also externally with parents needs to be especially between schools and tone, messages, dogmatism not to for their child’s education to have increasingly hectic lifestyles, quick, effective and efficient. We is not clear at all to everyone who parents. The difficult decision that But this in itself raises a further An interesting dynamic for prep mention grammar – that would be the chosen school, with little and therefore want to harness the are continually developing ways to needs to know it. George Bernard confronts all schools is the means conundrum in terms of what schools such as mine, is how to another whole discussion... involvement aside from attendance power of online communications improve our systems and protocols Shaw may not be living in our at the occasional sports match channels as far as possible to in order to achieve this. Equally, frenzied 21st century age, but his and the annual Speech Day and access general information, leaving once you have identified parent words are as relevant to school Mark Potter, be as proactive as possible. Supplementing these formal to discuss a child’s particular receipt of a school report each the more traditional face to face communications needs, you can also communications today as they ever Head of Laxton Within our school community, evenings, prep diaries, contact learning needs or a parental term. Darkening the door of the and telephone communications pre-empt certain queries through were to the wider world. Junior School, there is a wealth of supporting books, home exercises and emails concern. This high quality Northamptonshire: documentation ranging from further ensure that there is always personal interaction is imperative Elisabeth Lewis-Jones, CEO, the outset needs to be tailored and The timing and importance of it need to layer the message with what, and how, the children Quite simply, for any school a clear line of communication if we are to ensure that we are all Liquid Public Relations and an targeted. It needs to reflect the has gravitas and the content is rich apps, social media as well as internal will learn to the snacks that to be seen as truly effective, between home and school. working toward the best interest independent school governor: vision and values of the school, it and informative. Then, every now channels, parent portals etc. Schools are available to children during transparent and clear These formal channels of of the child. Communication with needs to reinforce the brand values, and then I get emails from his tutor, cannot ‘tell’ or ‘push’ information their playtimes. Comprehensive communication is key. As communication are supported When communication goes awry, parents is becoming as current parents will always be from the housemaster and I get out anymore, communication has to and detailed reports are written your most vocal ambassadors. pictures all depicting my son and in any environment, poor by a termly calendar, a monthly as, on occasion, it will inevitably increasingly complex. be part of an ongoing conversation by the staff twice a year for his activities. At an age when most communication in an educational newsletter, year group blogs, Not just because I have two sons. At the school my with parents and stakeholders. And each child where comments are do, the only thing to do at of the variety of teenage boys just grunt, I feel part setting will only serve to create Facebook and Twitter feeds, youngest son goes to I receive a for a conversation to be effective it made on the children’s learning this juncture is to hold one’s communication channels at our of his boarding life and incredibly confusion across the school’s email, and that seemingly old- weekly newsletter. I read it with has to be two-way. progress and targets are set for hands up, apologise and seek to disposal or increasingly complex informed. I feel that his education is dread. It champions ‘fine diners’ community, a lack of cohesion school but essential way of improve. As teachers, we only family relationships but because for tailored to him and the school really Basic communication has to dovetail the next stages of their learning. and ‘headmistress commendations’ between children, staff and working; personal, face to face ever want what is best for the your communication to stand out know him. It is not a regular mass into the wider marketing plan and Parent Conferences are then and the odd sports report. It is too parents as to just what the school conversations. child and it is in our best interest and be noticed, it has to be relevant, mailing that just champions success in turn the marketing plan needs held the week following the regular, the content is poor, it is stands for and is striving to timely and importantly, authentic. to make the school feel good about to underpin the business plan of distribution of the reports so At Laxton Junior School we to generate as successful a home- badly written and it alone creates a achieve, and will eventually lead itself; it is individual, relevant and that home and school can be will communicate events and school partnership as is possible. An independent school is asking culture of competitiveness amongst a school. No more will a standard keeps my attention. to frustration for all parties. its parents to part with their two parents that is less than healthy. weekly newsletter cut it, parents in agreement as to how we can particular achievements through The principal behind effective support the children’s learning in a myriad of different channels most important ‘assets’ – kids and My eldest son’s school has just a In an age when we communicate come in all shapes and sizes and so Continued overleaf > cash. So the communication from termly letter from the Headmaster. using a variety of channels, schools too must your communication. communication is to aim to the coming weeks and months. yet will always meet with parents

16 Independent Schools Magazine Independent Schools Magazine 17 Advertorial Feature Talking ...Continued Point The prospectus is dead. Mike Holland, Director of celebration of all that their girls are face about progress, the newsletter success or an issue, either within a Communications & Development, doing at school – particularly as provides updates and reminders, the lesson or in a wider pastoral sense. St Helen & St Katharine, teenagers get older and might not website celebrates and articulates Similarly parents can update the Long live the printed piece. Oxfordshire: be quite so forthcoming about their school values and Twitter provides school with what is happening at ‘day at school’ an instant window onto school life. home. “Lily has just won gold for With so many ways to For many, the word prospectus based on an existing document mail approach may be more communicate these To be successful, each channel Another key to success is to ensure Team GB at the U16 Fencing, but conjures up a tired, oversized A4 or what other schools have appropriate, or an annual review. days, it sometimes within the school’s communication that communications are two way she may be tired as it was an all glossy brochure full of cliched produced. This is of course to a seems that the mix must have a clear purpose and rather than a simple broadcast. weekend tournament.” Whatever route you take it should language and slightly wooden, certain extent, understandable, if channel is more should deliver something that the As more communication is done be wholly appropriate to your We also know the value of the albeit apparently happy, children, nothing else to try and establish important than the message and other channels don’t. In isolation, online at St Helen and St Katharine, If conventional litho is used then ‘old-fashioned’ letter and the particular school in every respect. the audience. The rush to embrace parents’ evenings, the school we have developed digital systems writes Paul Kilvington. a bench mark for competitive paper stocks should be carefully Headmistress writes to large Minimal text might work best for social media has often meant that newsletter, the website or Twitter to engage with our parents, for It is similar to the negative baggage tendering. But it should only be considered to enhance your brand numbers of pupils and their many but is not necessarily right the golden rules of communication, couldn’t meet all of a parent or a example through event ticketing, associated with the word boarding. a bench mark. The end result values and design concept rather families every week, thanking and for all - understand your audience. what, why, who and when, have school’s communication aims. An online registration for admissions, But just as boarding is actually quite should be very different. Not just than following fashion. Similarly, congratulating the girls for a huge Close up photographs of engaged been forgotten; it has all become intelligent combination of all begins choosing subject options and different nowadays to how many for the sake of being different, special print finishes, whether die range of achievements. students have impact and strength about the how. to create something much more automatic booking on to the school perceive it to still be, the prospectus but to really help define just cutting, embossing, foils, high build compelling. bus system. Our new website will but you may be missing a trick by We know that parents value clear At St Helen and St Katharine we aim can and should be, a very different how different and special your varnishes or binding techniques deliver more personalisation to both not showing wide enough shots and individualised communication. Each channel delivers something to work in partnership with parents animal indeed. school is. such as perfect, section sewn or visitors and parents. to deliver the best education for of your grounds and facilities – Family life is busy and clarity around different and when combined, The approach, direction, look simply saddle stitched but with As such, rather than being understand your product. First event timings, sports fixtures and communication goals start to be Offline, our school planners and each individual pupil. Intelligent and copper staples, should be utilised questioned with regard to its and feel for your printed element rehearsals is critical. We also know achieved. Parents’ evenings are a homework diaries allow staff to varied communications play a vital person or third person copy? Formal must come from within. If your for a specific purpose rather than to that parents want to join in the formal opportunity to talk face-to- communicate with a parent about a role in helping us to achieve this. relevance today in the marketing or more colloquial? – understand process started with a brand ‘gild the lily’. mix, alongside websites, film and your brand. review then the research necessary Rachel Hadley-Leonard, AMDIS independent schools even have of the far reaching benefits that the second, but it is perhaps the social media, it should be embraced Carefully considered, beautifully Methods of reproduction, print Chair & Head of Marketing, Apps which communicate sports seeking parental opinion may bring. latter of these three elements that and focused on what’s at its core. for that will inevitably inform the crafted print, complimenting all techniques and finishes are equally Solihull School, West Midlands: fixtures, news, calendar events and In the digital age that we live in, we should look to embrace. A brand is a sensory thing. It route to be taken. If not, then your media streams and accurately snow days. focus groups will be invaluable important. If a short or even communicating your brand will Most would agree canvassing parental opinion has Does your school’s social media represents what an organisation to clearly identify messages and personalised, print run is required engage with your audience in an that almost all But is the road of communication never been easier, and canny schools account interact with its audience? looks, feels, smells, sounds and then digital print will be the most independent schools a two way street? Are schools often use the results of such surveys Are your parents and other tastes like. And three of those audiences and to help ensure emotive way that digital media strive to achieve listening to what parents have to and interaction to laud their own stakeholders regularly surveyed? Do aspects can be very effectively buy in. This will also inform the cost effective and the design will never emulate. Embrace and excellence in their say? Are we engaging parents in achievements. you hold focus groups? In an even communicated through a clever best way for the print to be used should be appropriate to that. celebrate it. communication with stakeholders. a conversation, inviting them to In a recent Government White Paper bolder move, are staff incentivised to piece of print. and distributed and therefore its The problem with communication feedback and comment, or are we so attend parent teacher social events format and structure. entitled Excellence in Schools, it A creative printed element, informed however, is that for it to be effective, afraid of criticism that we give them to facilitate interaction on another was suggested that there are three by and supporting other marketing It may be that you decide not to it has to be a two way channel. few chances to really participate in elements to improving school-parent level? communication material, is an send your print through the post. meaningful dialogue? relationships: providing parents with Of course parents want to receive It is a brave school that opens its immediate, user friendly way to But if you do, make sure that it will regular reports, attend parents’ Whilst it is crucial that parents information, encouraging parental doors wide and listens to its parental really engage with your many and fit through most letterboxes, and evenings, hear about academic have an inherent trust and belief in partnerships, and giving parents body. But almost always the benefits varied audiences and to get your that its weight isn’t cost prohibitive. or pastoral issues as they arise, how we nurture their children – we a voice. Independent schools are far outweigh the risks, resulting messages across. It should be happy and more often than not, schools are after all, professionals in our becoming particularly good at the in stronger relationships based on Perhaps the method of deliver these with aplomb. Many field – we should also be aware first, are learning to take on board mutual trust. in its own skin and not try and distribution might influence the emulate other media in the form direction. If accessibility and of a downloadable pdf, tricksy proximity to a railway station electronic page turner or gimmicky is an important differentiating Trescothick to coach pull out multimedia box set. factor and you are keen to Taunton School, Somerset, has School. I’m really looking forward Often the best brief is no brief. generate increased local Distinctive pulled off a sporting coup by to helping the students learn about Many are too prescriptive, awareness, then a newspaper announcing that Somerset cricket being a professional cricketer Prospectuses defining a print specification and available from news stands might captain and former England star and other elements of elite sports work best. For others a direct Marcus Trescothick is joining its performance.” a preconceived idea of content coaching team. Headmaster Lee Glaser, pictured Trescothick, 39, who has been with Marcus, said: “It’s very exciting appointed as cricket development that Marcus will be working with coach from the start of this summer us. He is a fine role model and ably term, said: “I’ve been coming to demonstrates that a sportsman or the school since I was a boy for woman can be successful whilst also coaching and the like and now conducting themselves in the right my daughters are both in the Prep way both on and off the field.” School so I’m delighted to be part of Trescothick played 76 Test matches the team. and 123 One-Day Internationals for Incisive Distinctive Engaging Absorbing Stunning “Obviously playing is still the most England with a top score of 219 Strategy Prospectuses Websites Film Photography important part of my life and will and a Test average of 43.79. He has take up my main focus but I’m played 327 First-class matches since Paul Kilvington Kilvington - The School Branding Experts. kilvington.com hoping to grow the role at Taunton his debut in 1993. 01242 603442 07831 332904 [email protected] www.kilvington.com

18 Independent Schools Magazine Independent Schools Magazine 19 Passionate ‘500 Words’ competition judge about reading Mrs Shelley Allen, Year 6 teacher them on their plot, originality, Libraries in education at Burgess Hill School for Girls, characterisation, language and her Three Derby High School students Sussex, has been selected as a enjoyment of the story. Over the last decade we have Staff may use the OPAC private spoke about their passion for judge for BBC Radio 2 ‘500 Words’ Mrs Allen said, “The stories made seen an increase in the scope area to upload resources for reading at a conference organised by competition for young people. me laugh and even brought a of services offered by learning their students and colleagues, a national school libraries group. She put her name forward to be a tear to my eye! I have been very centres and libraries. The learning while students may download Lucy O’Hanlon, 14, Tilly Gardener, judge because she was interested impressed with the standard of 14, and Catriona Judd, 14, all gave knowledgeable and interested group centre staff need tools to address assignments and upload in finding out about what other entries.” their views at the regional CILIP of people willing to run the school this increased workload. The their work. ‘Circulation lists’ children in the country were School Libraries Group event which library.” Sue Bussey, a committee BHSG librarian, Ms Yve Akehurst library management systems have may be controlled by library writing. She also encouraged the was held at Derby High School. member of CILIP School Libraries has been a judge for the last three changed so that they can now staff, authorized teachers and Group and Library Resources girls in her class to take part and years. A speech by student Hannah Cooke- support these services. authorized students to allow Manager at Derby High, in Hillsway, enter their own stories. Rogers, 17, was also read out as she The competition winners will be rapid circulation of restricted Littleover, said she was extremely The UK tax laws have been more was unable to attend. Mrs Allen has read and marked 31 announced live on the Chris Evans proud of the students. accommodating so that the cost of resources and notices; staff can stories written by 10 to 13 year olds Breakfast Show at Hay Festival later The East Midlands Regional Meeting distribute meeting notes and She said: “They spoke to the this month (May). library systems including training allows a forum for discussion, from across the country, scoring policies easily and sensitively audience about why they are and implementation may be debate and advocacy on current passionate about books, reading reclaimed from the government, so on a ‘need to know’ basis with issues in school libraries. and libraries and they were superb. private online discussions to finance should not be an excuse Lucy told the audience she thought “We have started holding regional support different agendas. for standing still. that school libraries were a brilliant meetings so that people who websites may be refreshed with MARC 21 and Z39.50. These A library management system Traditionally library systems opportunity for children. can’t access our group because of new information through the standards allow your library supports a much wider range provided facilities to search She said: “Now, I don’t know about distance or cost have a chance to library system in minutes. system to connect to any come along and meet us and see of resources including rooms, bibliographic details only. any other school libraries but mine major library in the world and is so well used, that the books I what we are about.” accommodation, eBooks, Some sections of the web ‘Discovery’ facilities allow OPAC to download a professional want are normally being read by The CILIP School Libraries Group eJournals, documents, art, pages may be given over to the users to search the ‘content’ catalogue. The British Library someone else. The team in our holds regional training courses on a photography, performing and authorized students, alumni, of all documents; every word library is helpful and on hand if you wide range of topics concerned with marketing and teaching staff, so is easily accessible but so are on every digital resource is visual arts, music, video, online need advice and they also all have school librarianship and campaign that they can maintain details of libraries anywhere in the world. automatically indexed as it is tests, news, events, discussions extensive knowledge on books for in support of school libraries, school their activities and events. Some It is much faster to scan an and parental communications. All added into the catalogue. Access our age group and I think all schools librarians and Schools Library schools like to include Twitter ISBN number and download a the resources are accessible via a to information has never been so should have such a dedicated, Services (SLSs). feeds and social media. This is all definition into your system than website, which is called the OPAC easy or fast. within the scope of the OPAC. it is to type a catalogue record. (Online Public Access Catalogue). As we get more global, The library management system Whether book covers are free Since the OPAC is a ‘public’ independent schools and colleges will catalogue any item, which is a matter for your lawyer, but resource, the OPAC allows an want to attract students from can be loaned, booked (rooms book covers do add greatly to the organization to substantially raise anywhere in the world. A school and tutors), reserved, purchased display of literary resources and its global profile. The OPAC is library system can be provided in (e.g. stationery and uniforms) or the credibility of your library. For designed to appeal to prospective any language, so that parents, viewed (e.g. digital resources and events, news articles and drama, students and parents as well as whose first language may not visual arts). you can take a photo or image current students and alumni with be English, may view OPAC web instead and to great effect. tailored branding and colour. With the increasing popularity pages and resources in their The OPAC can be integrated with of mobile devices, all resources Every registered user will have language; this shows respect your main website and share the should be searchable on any their own private area within for their culture and leads to same style. device. Previously resources were the library system. The features increased student applications. only visible on Windows PCs. It Language schools like OPACs in All the content of an OPAC web available within the private is now equally essential to allow multiple languages to support page is controlled by library staff area are configurable and resources to be viewed, reserved learning outcomes in the without the need for IT staff. inexhaustible. Within the private and renewed from iPhones and languages they teach. The web pages of your main area, students may communicate Android devices. with staff (if allowed), book You can purchase a library system The core library management items, renew items, reserve items, and claim your money back, or system is available on tablets, so upload images of their visual you can rent. Equally you can that additional workstations may arts, join societies, review items, have the library system hosted in be rapidly commissioned in busy take online tests and much more. a shared service or on premise. periods or for events, and stock An OPAC should be exciting The procurement of a library takes may be undertaken in less to students, since this leads to system is a maze for the unwary time. increasing use of the learning and most schools pay far too The library world uses some centre and improved learning much; this will be discussed in international standards such as outcomes. the next issue.

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20 Library Library 21 ‘What we need is more emphasis on giving children a purpose, a sense of Chinese speaking winners belonging, of not having the accumulation of wealth as their end-game’ Six Oundle School, to learn Chinese in a creative Northamptonshire, pupils way, which includes learning participated in the final of the Chinese through sketches. By Well-educated – for what? annual HSBC Mandarin Speaking doing so they have improved Competition at the British their confidence in spoken ....asks Peter Tait, head of Sherborne Preparatory School, Dorset. Museum and won first prize in Chinese dramatically.” the Group Performance category When we look at the multiplicity initiative, enterprise, work ethic or whatever schools set as targets, to apart from intellectual discourses in The competition consisted of with their short Chinese play, Red of roles expected of schools over collaborative skills necessary; and define someone as being well- philosophy or Religious Education, two categories – the individual and above the traditional roles of universities that bewail the lack of Sorghum, adapted from Mo Yan’s educated solely by their ability to morals are no longer at the core presentation and the group imparting skills and knowledge, creativity, of independent thinking pass a series of exams is restrictive, novel of the same name. of learning - which is perhaps performance. In the final of facilitating the development and the inability to communicate wasteful and nonsensical. why we see so many of our civic As their prize, the six pupils won of character and personality and accurately and originally in written competition, thirty three pupils This is not to dispute that we and business leaders struggle to a trip to China in April, where preparing children for their future form. participated in the individual need to measure learning, but make appropriate decisions, in they had the opportunity to put employment and place in society, presentation and thirteen groups Schools tread a very thin line examination grades are but one regards their own financial and their Mandarin to good use and it is hardly surprising that they from across the country took part between providing a system of tool. Of course, there should be personal lives or in discharging experience Chinese culture first- have so little time to focus on what in the group performance. education that allows for the a requisite level of ability, but if hand, visiting historical sites and education is in the best interests their corporate or political depth and breadth of learning I was asked to be treated by a interacting with local students. The nationwide competition Opening the door to reading of their pupils. Pulled in so many responsibilities. with the acquisition of appropriate doctor with 3 A* at A Level, but The British Council, with over aims to encourage greater directions by the pressures of With a tree of knowledge, a wise she said ‘I have been an English life skills and a more pragmatic, lacking in emotional intelligence What we need is more emphasis 20 years’ experience of running interest in Chinese language and league tables, endless compliance, old owl, a Green Man and wood teacher throughout my career, functional role of producing and communication skills (and they on giving children a purpose, a cultural exchanges with China, culture – which is vital to the health and safety, restrictive sprite, the newly refurbished and one of the greatest gifts examination results to secure often do go hand in hand),or by sense of belonging, of not having accompanied the group. UK’s future prosperity. Chinese budgets and the provision of wrap Junior Library at Bramcote you will receive at school is future employment. The problem someone with lesser grades but the accumulation of wealth as is already spoken by more than round care, many have become Oundle’s Head of Chinese, Junior School, Yorkshire, is now the opportunity to read. It is a is always what should they be with the latter traits in abundance, their end-game. As the world of a billion people worldwide and obsessed with data and getting Hua Yan commented, “The teaching? We can all agree on the latter is where I would want to an inviting place for children to wonderful way to lose yourself the best results they can for their knowledge grows exponentially, pupils demonstrated good is gaining greater and greater a core of literacy, numeracy and enjoy stories and let their minds in adventures and strange, new school. And, as more and more go. Passing tests tells us something especially through technology and understanding of the content importance, with China being the sciences, but from thereon there and imaginations roam free. The worlds! It has been wonderful pressure is applied to children to about intellectual capacity and nanotechnology, our children will of the short play. Their Chinese world’s second biggest economy. is surprisingly little consensus. Friends of Scarborough College to see our Junior pupils dressed that end, children are funnelled reasoning, but not much about be challenged to learn more and However, the British Council’s Elements of traditional education pronunciation in the performance have generously supported the as their favourite characters empathy, enterprise, sensitivity or more about less and less. Being into bands of erstwhile intelligence are dismissed as being extraneous was very impressive indeed and Languages for the Future report school enabling them to be able and talking passionately and the ability to work with others. based on an ability to pass written because their benefits are not easily well-educated will always imply I am very proud of them. We are in 2013 showed that only 1% of to rejuvenate the library and also knowledgably about a vast tests at random points in their measured (and in these days of Which is why so many graduates having a breadth and depth of always keen for pupils at Oundle UK adults can speak Mandarin. ensure that works of great writers collection of books which they schooling, while their parents are results, measurement is all), yet it is struggle when trying to find knowledge, but it should also adorn the new tree shelves; have all enjoyed reading.’ driven into the arms of avaricious often so-called peripheral subjects work. Having been seduced into include having sound moral and tutoring agencies that have grown from Roald Dahl to Shakespeare, Mr Dan Davey, Headmaster of or ‘learning off-piste’ that have the believing a good degree will open ethical beliefs, tolerance of others alarmingly, especially in London Harry Potter to Tracy Beaker or Bramcote Junior School said, greatest enduring value in shaping doors, they learn rather too late and a desire to work for a greater and the South East. But for whose that there are other factors that are collections of poetry and tomes ‘In a technological age where lives. Studying poetry, for instance, good. The idea that a university of non-fiction, there really is benefit? Certainly not for the more important. Good manners, toddlers learn how to use or Art History, Classics, Philosophy degree is the only tertiary education something for everyone. children they purport to serve. humility, honesty, being able to tablets before they can read, it and the like might not appear to worth bothering with (and often The results of such pressures make young people more useful get on with people and being able Mrs Isobel Nixon, Headmistress is wonderful to open a library the best education, post-school, are self-evident: an epidemic of or employable, but they may well to work with others are obvious of Scarborough College, was which offers our children a happens outside of any institution) examples. But being well-educated delighted to officially open the safe haven from the modern unhappy, introspective children make them better educated and also implies someone who is aware should be replaced with a greater library as part of the school’s world where they can immerse beset by self-harming, mental more useful citizens. Many would illness and eating disorders; consider such topics to represent of other people, is considerate to focus on the teaching of ethics, on World Book Day celebrations. themselves in literature, in the employers dissatisfied with what exactly what a good education the needs of others and is open- social skills, on making learning In her address to the children old fashioned way.’ the education system is churning should be and they are what minded, curious and with a social a habit and on growing a social Pictured: Mr Dan Davey and Mrs Isobel Nixon with pupils out - well-qualified students, but sets us apart as civilised beings. conscience. Morality and ethics conscience. Our future as homo without the attitude, flexibility, Whatever the curriculum, however, can be problematic to teach, but sapiens depends on it. Putting down pens and picking up language The Communication Trust, a one million pupils. awareness of speech, language Trust with teachers who took part. Patriotic effort Pupils at Denstone College hygiene education in countries such coalition of 52 leading voluntary No Pens Day Wednesday provides and communication needs in their Inclusion, confidence, written work Preparatory School, Staffordshire, as Haiti and Nepal. sector and community-based resources, activities and guidance for school/setting. and engagement of both parents showed their great patriotic spirit Helen Bennett, Head of Geography organisations with expertise settings and schools to run a full day One in five schools said that taking and staff are all areas schools noted for St George and England by at the school said: “We hope that in speech, language and of lessons with a spoken language part in the day had helped them improvements in. supporting St Georges Day and the by supporting this campaign, Toilet communication, has recently focus. Evaluation from the 2014 identify a pupil who was struggling No Pens Day Wednesday 2015 Toilet Twinning ‘Help Flush away Twinning are able to slay poverty announced the return of its popular initiative highlighted that: with their spoken language that will take place on Wednesday Poverty’ campaign. Pupils paid £2 in the same way George slayed the No Pens Day Wednesday initiative Over 95% of respondents said they’d not identified before. to wear a rose and home clothes dragon in England, by essentially taking place on October 7th 2015. they’d do something differently 7th October 2015 – schools can Beyond these statistics, schools and and also brought in cakes which eradicating this endemic disease around speech, language and sign up on The Communication Last year, over 3,600 schools across settings shared in-depth insights were sold at the end of the school in those countries. Children have communication as a result of taking Trust’s website to access all the England put down their pens and into the changing practice the day to help raise as much money as studied water pollution as part of picked up their language by taking part in No Pens Day Wednesday. day facilitated both through the free materials and get newsflash possible for the charity. All of the the Geography curriculum here at part in the Trust’s annual No Pens Over 80% of respondents reported evaluation survey but also in a series updates as new materials for 2015 money raised will be donated to the the school, so they are only too Day Wednesday event reaching over that taking part had raised of case studies undertaken by The are released. toilet twinning campaign to provide aware of just how important an For more information visit www.thecommunicationtrust.org.uk/nopensdaywednesday clean water, basic sanitation, and issue this is.”

22 Languages Independent Schools Magazine 23 David Williams has been Headmaster of Tettenhall College, West Midlands, since January 2014. He was previously Senior Deputy Head of Wellingborough School, Northamptonshire. ProfileIn conversation with David Williams

Born: 1963 Among your predecessors as and train staff, pupils and parents. However, This nursery to sixth form model is a key part people. Is it important that these initiatives I went as part as the British Head at Tettenhall was the pastoral care is the daily responsibility of of our strategic planning for the future. As have a place at independent schools? What Council-led “Great Mission Married? Q distinguished educationalist John all and we can only be really judged on how a smaller school we feel we can deliver a do you most enjoy about gardening? A to China” to Chengdu and Deborah with 2 children; Dale. In one of his speech day addresses he well we operate on the ground in providing genuine all-through education and we are Chonquing with four other Heads. The sheer Hector and Florence said: “We ask boys and girls to distinguish support and responding to situations with developing structures and a curriculum with This would be an extension dedication and determination evident in between what the heart knows to be right hard-working tutors and heads of year or teachers and subject leaders prepared to of the Forest School initiative schools of up to 5000 pupils is something that Schools and University Attended: and what the crowd says is ‘cool’.” Do you houses leading the way. I am proud that all think and teach across phases. Any school A we are running for our we should learn from. Success comes from Mountbatten School, Romsey and still ask that of your pupils? How can you three schools have outstanding reputations needs to look outwards and we do this in a younger pupils. It has been very successful hard work and practice rather than some Barton Peveril College. Kingston, help them make the distinction in this age of for looking after their pupils. number of ways with outside links, alumni and I believe that in the past we have magic formula and this is a message that Reading (MSc) social media and celebrity adulation? talks, charity work, a range of fixtures and had an allotment here at Tettenhall so comes across from any successful exponent Part of your studies for an partnerships. Here in the West Midlands would support such a project. Working in in their field. As we all know, the attraction First job: Of course. Equipping pupils to MSc in Managing School I have enjoyed the well-grounded nature the rhythm of the seasons, overcoming of a UK education is as popular as ever with Graduate Trainee, W H Smith (I make the correct choices is an Improvement involved the Q of parents and pupils. There is no sense of challenges, observing progress and enjoying Chinese parents and pupils as a valued didn’t last very long) ongoing part of education and preparation of a Dissertation on ‘Parental arrogance or the “bubble” that can exist currency but they also appreciate our ability to A the fruits of one’s labour - not much a key strength of our schools is the upholding Choice of Independent Schools’, for which see the “bigger picture” with extra-curricular of values that have somehow gone missing elsewhere. different than teaching! First management job: you won a Distinction. What lessons learnt activities and emphasis on the whole person elsewhere. This is particularly the case with Head of MFL from your research have proved most useful Tettenhall has stuck with GCSEs and a recognition that an unhappy pupil will regard to the open desire to work hard You started your teaching as a head? and A-levels, despite all the well- not produce his or her best. First job in education: academically. However, it is often a hard road career in Modern Languages, publicised upheavals nationally. 1989 John Fisher School, Purley and our job is to equip the pupils well for Nothing is more important than Q yet now teach cinema and film Q How do you monitor what You must have considered the other offerings the world outside with the knowledge that what goes on in the classroom. at A-level. How did such a switch of focus such as iGCSE, the IB, the PreU. Do you intend really goes on in the classroom? Appointed to current job: some may get it wrong during their time at All the rest flows from this and come about? What’s your favourite film? A to continue as you are, and what – if anything Are you an enthusiast for no parent will part with their hard earned Q January 2014 school. In these situations I believe firmly – might make you change? I have taught film as part of reviews of teachers by pupils? in corrective discipline then forgiving and cash if the teaching isn’t of a high standard. Favourite piece of music: A-level French for many years moving on, although they need to be told that Secondly, parents will not always tell the truth We do believe there is always As a new head I have made it my Anything by Van Morrison and have always enjoyed the this may not happen when they have left! about the reasons why they choose private work to be done in providing A business to see everyone teach fact that the work of François Truffaut education. One cannot underestimate the appropriate qualifications for in unannounced visits and will Favourite food: You were responsible for pastoral in films such as Les 400 coups or Jules et A continue to do so. I am not too fond of the social reasons for doing so. A our pupils but are attracted to courses with Seafood platter in France care at Wellingborough, and also Jim can captivate pupils and inspire them number crunching analysis of grading and greater relevance to the world of business at the post you held before that Tettenhall educates boys to produce excellent work. They enjoy the observations, often finding that talking to Q and work as opportunities in the Sixth Form Favourite drink: as Director of Sixth Form at Reading Blue and girls from 2 – 18. What people provides an accurate view of what is and broadening our range at GCSE to foster added layer of film language and analysis. Real ale or wine Coat School. In last month’s ISM a senior percentage of pupils stay all- happening. Pupils are the best judges, quick Q creativity in our pupils. school manager was quoted as saying: “Every through? How do you ensure that they The Deer Hunter, which I remember seeing and to the point and indeed at Tettenhall will Favourite holiday destination: school boasts of their pastoral care network do not become insulated from the rough You enjoy gardening, and had whilst I was at school remains a powerful knock on my door and tell me if they are not French Alps and focus on wellbeing, resilience etc. yet too and tumble of the ‘real world’ outside your an allotment until you went to movie with great acting and a director happy with the quality of teaching. often you hear of schools letting young people 33-acres of woodland grounds? Favourite leisure pastime: Skiing Tettenhall. Garden Organic and dealing with a multitude of human themes. down.” Is there any truth in that assessment? Q You are now well into your About 20% although we are other organisations help teachers develop How can schools ensure that pastoral care Can you tell us about your second year as a head. With Favourite TV or working on this! We have gardening projects that teach children meets the challenges of increasing levels of recent trip to China? Did you the benefit of hindsight, if you radio programme/series: boarders join us later and where their food comes from, develops their Q mental stress amongst young people? notice any aspects of the could turn back time and be about to start A scientific and environmental awareness Desert Island Discs on a podcast in a significant numbers at Year 7 although we Q Chinese education system which could the job - would you prepare differently for plane on a long international flight Whole school and year group are growing our Prep School and feel we and encourages them to eat more fruit the challenges you have faced? proactive approaches to these can deliver a genuine all-through education and vegetables; it is claimed that the most usefully transfer to the UK? Conversely, Suggested epitaph: “And in the issues naturally have their place and we are developing structures and a effective food growing schools achieve which aspects of a UK independent school I would have taken more time end, the love you take is equal to A significant learning, skills, health and well- education did you find that Chinese parents and we must respond to societal change. All curriculum with teachers and subject leaders out to enjoy my leisure as you the love you make” The Beatles of us have used up-to-date experts to address prepared to think and teach across phases. being outcomes for children and young seemed particularly keen on? A don’t get much as a head! 24 Independent Schools Magazine Independent Schools Magazine 25 Bringing young people’s emotional wellbeing to the top of the agenda Expert tuition Dance Students at The Hammond in Chester enjoyed some expert advice Changing the landscape of education when ex Bolshoi and Royal ballet star Irek Mukhamedov visited the school to give some of his invaluable coaching to the principal dancers during the Over 100 delegates from 57 schools attended last month’s (April) conference week before their production of the Ballet La Bayadere. at Highfield School, Hampshire, for a day centred on emotional wellbeing. The Irek, a Patron of The Hammond, spent three days working with the dancers during his fleeting visit to Chester before returning to his work in Europe. aim was ‘to galvanise the sector in putting this at the heart of their schools, being proactive in reducing the pressures on our young people and promoting resilience and mental health awareness and training’. Event organisers William Goldsmith (pictured) and Phillip Evitt report on the day... What makes our schools special? engaging speakers who put the range, we can stem the reactive This is a question asked of pupils emotional and mental wellbeing measures required at secondary and staff regularly and one that of our pupils at the heart of schools. we all find easy to answer: our their message. They spoke of the What did delegates take from the impressive academic results; high alarming rise in mental health Conference? Firstly, passionate quality and innovative teaching; issues amongst young people, pleas from all the speakers to beautiful grounds and happy the need to understand eating recognise the growing problem atmosphere; opportunities for disorders and self-harm, the value and to do something about all school staff have their medical sport, music, art, drama and of slowing down education, the it. Secondly, that the speakers first aid qualifications renewed on extra-curricular activities and of nature of the adolescent brain approached enhancing emotional a regular basis, why is there no course the pastoral care. I am and the benefits of teaching wellbeing from different such requirement or opportunity sure we would all agree that our mindfulness. Aimed at galvanising viewpoints. While Mike Grenier for mental health awareness? schools have these qualities and our sector into implementing encouraged schools to slow down If staff had the knowledge and much more. However, there is one initiatives to reduce pressures education and allow time for thing we value above everything on young people and stem the genuinely creative teaching and awareness to spot signs of mental else; the happiness and wellbeing rise in mental health issues, learning, James Shone spoke of ill-health at any early stage, the of our children, which is the very the Conference generated a the need for all schools to look lives of many children could be linchpin of every single school. commitment from every school at their pastoral care and ensure transformed. present to put emotional This was clearly evident in the time is set aside for tutors and The tide is turning. There was wellbeing at the heart of school engagement of the delegates from teachers to really get to know the a real sense of excitement, Dance show welcomes life, both in and out of the leading IAPS and HMC schools children. Dick Moore challenged commitment and determination classroom. all schools to come together, who gathered at Highfield for a amongst the schools present to national choreographers We genuinely feel we can do take responsibility and genuinely day designed to promote what implement all that was discussed something quite extraordinary put emotional literacy at the lies at the core of education and and presented. This is just the The Dame Allan’s Schools, Young Creatives scheme at The Royal across our sector – and beyond - very heart of the curriculum, a growing up; the wellbeing of our beginning and we are committed Newcastle, dance show included Ballet School in London. to bring young people’s emotional message greeted with enormous children. Every day we read and to putting words into action now. powerful choreography from a wellbeing to the top of the enthusiasm and determination. Providing yet more inspiration for hear of the pressures facing young Across the prep school sector, member of the nationally renowned agenda. If every school – primary, Dr. Bob Stephenson gave a the young performers, Allanian For all your people in all areas of life; of the we will continue to drive schools BalletBoyz at Newcastle’s Dance City. secondary, state and independent thought provoking presentation Ellis Saul returned as a guest rise in self-harm and disordered to implementing a whole school A piece by Edward Pearce of music education – did just this, we would not on the adolescent brain, while choreographer creating a piece eating amongst girls and boys, of approach to emotional wellbeing, BalletBoyz and choreographed for only save lives, but also raise our Dr. Pooky Knightsmith spoke entitled fisch#billybass. Ellis began equipment the unacceptable, yet unavoidable, as urged by George Masters. one of the schools’ dance companies & performance children to cope and flourish in a about eating disorders and self- Jeune, explored different kinds of her dance career at Dame Allan’s, wait for young people to secure There is much to do and we are truly extraordinary global world. harm, increasingly problems for love and enabled the young dancers going on to achieve a scholarship an appointment with CAHMS, at the start of an exciting and The day was an enormous success both boys and girls. Caroline to express themselves through a at the London Contemporary Music Stands, and ever more disturbing statistics revolutionary process to make FREEPHONE Lights & Accessories and not only are we immensely Southerden, a school counsellor, series of solo performances. Dance School where she created Music Folders of the scale of mental health changes, but most importantly, 0800 072 7799 Music Chairs & proud to be a part of a larger urged all schools to ensure their Other pieces performed included choreography which has been problems in our young people. make a real difference to young Accessories movement for change, we are pupils have access to a counsellor ‘Birds of Paradise’, choreographed performed at the Royal Opera House. to join the Instrument & Sheet We should not underestimate people. Music Storage equally delighted that there can and James Gibbs, from the by talented, up and coming regional The spectacular school show was education discount Conductor’s the scale of this problem and be no doubt the tide is turning. Mindfulness in Schools Project, We are most grateful to all our choreographer Anthony Lo Giudice, programme and Equipment named VisJeun89, after the Schools’ Staging & Risers every single school has a duty to speakers for their inspirational which Jeune will perform alongside save money on We will continue to collaborate explained the valuable impact principal dance companies, Vis a Viz Theatre Products address this and do all they can to Visaviz, the Schools’ senior dance your purchases! with schools throughout the Mindfulness can have on staff messages, to the Charlie Waller and Jeune, and the year that dance Acoustic Products help put this right. group, as one of only four groups country to stop this crisis and pupil wellbeing. Schools Memorial Trust for their support teacher Lynda Clough joined Dame in the UK at the U.dance National Addressing the delegates on a deepening and demonstrate were urged to train their staff and to all the schools who came Festival later in 2015. Also taking to Allan’s. The show was the last one range of associated issues, we that we can arrest the growing in Mental Health First Aid, a to Highfield and engaged with a the stage were Niamh McBride and Mrs Clough will choreograph for the were delighted to welcome a pressures our children face. By valuable course offered by Mental movement we hope will change Richard Tyson, two students who Schools, as she retires in the Summer www.blackcatmusic.co.uk number of inspirational and being proactive with the 4-13 age Health First Aid (MHFA). Just as the landscape of education. recently returned from a residential after 26 years.

26 Independent Schools Magazine Music & Drama 27 independent schools mag Ad 90x135mm MAY11.indd 1 6/5/11 13:08:41 Advertorial Feature World Premiere of ‘In THEATRE SHOW 2015 Theatre Wednesday 24 & Thursday 25 June the Shadow of Wings’ The West Hall, Alexandra Palace N22 7AY Independent Theatre Consultants In the Shadow of Wings by Eddie to Schools and Colleges for over 30 Years Elks had its world premiere at Oundle’s Stahl Theatre. The piece, opportunities which was commissioned by Oundle School as part of its WWI Centenary Commemorations, celebrated the life of arguably Oundle’s most famous for teachers The Association of British Theatre Technicians is an organisation supporting technical standards, training and safety. Every summer, The old boy, Cecil Lewis. ABTT Theatre Show takes place in London where 100+ technical Cecil Arthur Lewis was a pupil at exhibitors from training establishments to manufacturers provide an extraordinary marketplace and networking opportunity. Oundle from 1912-1916. He and and students best friend Maynard Greville wrote to the Royal Flying Corps aged just The Association of British Theatre and new products enable any 16, lying about their age in the Technicians is an organisation organiser to stay relevant, safe hope of getting a commission. The supporting technical standards, and legal. We are now in a boys were accepted aged 17 and Head of Drama, Matt Burlington training and safety. Every much better position to enable by 18, Lewis was flying dangerous commented, “This was a truly summer, The ABTT Theatre exhibitors to demonstrate their The place to be if you are interested in technical theatre. AV, reconnaissance missions as part of Show takes place in London epic production of an epic story. products at Alexandra Palace. Associations, Audio, Components, Crewing, Events, Flooring, Lighting, the battle of the Somme. Lewis flew Thanks to the Theatre Manager where 100+ technical exhibitors There is a purpose built studio Publications, Rental, Rigging, Scenic Supplies, Seating, Stage Engineering, New Builds throughout WWI, became an Ace Reb Desmond’s inspirational from training establishments theatre stage for the lighting and Stage Management Systems, Staging, Theatre Specialists, Training and was awarded the Military Cross Renovations design, we were transported from to manufacturers provide an sound suppliers. The Fly Tower for ‘continuous acts of bravery’. the dormitories and classrooms of extraordinary marketplace and in the main exhibition hall is for Conversions This original work was written by Oundle School to the front lines in networking opportunity. It works demonstrations relating to flying, Upgrades Eddie Elks – also a former pupil of France – and from the banks of the for those who are building or rigging, engineering and rescue at Drama Studios the School and performed by an Thames to blue skies above high equipping a venue, it works height. In the Roman Bar, we will Recording Studios ensemble of current pupils. clouds. for those who put on shows, it be holding a series of seminars works for suppliers promoting Concert Facilities relating to current industry issues. All exhibitors will be together in The West Hall at Alexandra Palace. The venue their products and it works for The Theatre Show in its new benefits from easy public transport links and free parking for 1500 cars. Dance Studios students looking for a career in Host of glitz & glamour home is the ideal opportunity the industry. See the exhibitor list on www.abtttheatreshow.co.uk Theatres for teachers to have a brief but The glitz and glamour of the West up of both students, staff, One of the secrets of success is to intensive catch up on what is End came to Framlingham College, and professional musicians. Let us visit f.o.c. to be aware and alert to what is on Suffolk, for three entertaining Framlingham College Director of going on behind the scenes. see how we can help offer in life. The atmosphere of nights. Students hosted their Music, Tim Rhodes was delighted This year we have launched you achieve your The Theatre Show is welcoming requirements annual Cabaret event, with this with the quality of all involved. our new free App. Go to your “Not only were there some and is nothing short of a treasure year’s theme being ‘A Night at the App Store and search for outstanding solo performances, trove for the enthusiast. For Musicals’. They performed songs ABTT Theatre Show. Those New at the Theatre Show this year: but the amount of students in the the student; opportunity can from shows such as ‘Into the who download the App join Sound and lighting companies have their own demonstration facility in Theatretech offer the chorus and orchestra shows the come in different shapes and the Studio Theatre. The Fly Tower is a structure in the West Hall for Woods’, ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ and a community where they can following services: depth of talent that the College sizes from apprenticeships with flying, rigging, engineering and rescue demonstrations. The Roman Room a rousing rendition of ‘One Day contact any other member has to offer. The audience clearly industry suppliers, working for will be the location for lecture theatre style seminars. More’ from Les Misérables. through the in App private Architectural Design loved it as we had standing theatre companies, specific skills Soloists were backed by both ovations each night justifying the messaging service. Targeted Theatre Systems Design development, drama schools a fifty-strong student chorus offers are made by exhibitors and hard work that had been put in and many more. Most of the Electrical Design and 36-piece orchestra made by everyone.” leading drama schools exhibit postings keep members in touch Mechanical Design at the show and this enables with latest news. The App will Stage Lighting potential students to get a clearer offer the usual content such as Audio and Video an exhibitor directory and floor picture of what is on offer. The Register now for free admission Rigging environment at The Theatre Show plan. www.abtttheatreshow.co.uk Fixed and Mobile Seating starts to open up more options The ABTT Theatre Show is at The than might be anticipated. A West Hall Alexandra Palace on working life ‘behind the scenes’ Wednesday 24th and Thursday can be enormously varied and 25th June. It is easy to get to by rewarding with anything from public transport and there is free theatre, film and TV to festivals, parking on site for 1500 cars. The White Barn • Grayswood Road special events and corporate Admission is free to everybody Grayswood • Haslemere • Surrey • GU27 2DJ presentations both in the UK and who pre-registers. Tel: 01428 651 488 • Email: [email protected] abroad. Download the Theatre Show App and join the community Visit our website at featuring private messaging. www.theatretech.net Technical developments, new www.abtttheatreshow.co.uk and Search for ABTT Theatre Show in App stores Pictured: Max Taylor standards, new skills, training register using the facility provided.

28 Music & Drama Music & Drama 29 Ind Sch 90 x 277.indd 1 27/04/2015 12:49 Advertorial Feature Revolutionaries triumph! Pupils at Bancroft’s School, Essex, forty strong cast, drawn mainly from presented their most ambitious years 10 to 13, embraced and rose production to date: Les Misérables to the challenges magnificently. School Edition. During its 30 year Under the direction of Ms Eleanor West End run Les Misérables has Middleton, Head of Drama, this was achieved iconic status and plays a show which looked and sounded to packed houses every night. terrific. The band, under the The three night run at Bancroft’s, School’s Director of Music Mr Roger preceded by a special matinee for Bluff, excelled itself in dealing with 500 children from local primary a complex score. schools, saw standing ovations at Bancroft’s Head, Mary Ireland, was every performance. most enthusiastic about the show, The school version may be slightly describing it as, “Quite simply the abridged and adapted but it best school production I have ever Medley of musical magic doesn’t prevent it from being a real seen; well acted, terrific singing and A show-stopping production of the four to 11 took on the roles of challenge for actors, musicians and an ensemble who clearly loved every musical extravaganza, ‘Alice’, has caterpillars, rabbits, folk dancers technical team alike. However, the minute!” been staged at Wisbech Grammar and rock and rollers in a mix of School’s preparatory school. solos, class numbers and comedy A combined audience of more than acts. 700 people, who attended the three Director of music Marie performances at Magdalene House Cunningham said: “The whole Preparatory School, Cambridgeshire, school production of ‘Alice’ was an were treated to a medley of musical enormous success. Every pupil at magic from the sixties, seventies Magdalene House put in a fantastic and eighties from all the pupils in performance, dancing, acting and Take to the dance floor the school. singing. There were lots of laughs Twelve girls took turns to play the and we are immensely proud of There is little doubt that dance is dance is the quality of the dance the undoubted popularity of dance, or has too much grip. If you are part of Alice and the pupils aged them all.” a very popular activity in terms of floor. It is important that whatever surprisingly no formal national noticing it straight away, then that both participation and to theatre stage of progress dancers are at, or international standards exist, kind of means there is something and television audiences. According the floor they rehearse and dance although work on this subject is you have to adapt to. Whereas to Dance UK up to 5 million people on is safe. progressing. Making sure you buy when you come out onto a in the UK have an interest or a suitable floor is as much about Just as sports players wear Harlequin floor, you don’t notice it involvement with dance. Many will steering clear of floors developed protective clothing appropriate straight away, so you can relax into practice rooms take their first steps at an early age, for other purposes and ensuring Sound-isolating education > home > recording to their chosen sport, so schools your performance and trust that as part of the school curriculum, only a floor specifically developed should ensure pupils learn to dance you will be able to do whatever after school classes or at specialist for dance is purchased. Harlequin on floors that are safe. Injuries can you need to do.” Karen Hauer picks dance schools. It is not just classical Floors has recently published a arise from slipping and falling on up the theme adding, “The thing ballet either, but a wide range of White Paper that explains the Our sound-isolating dance surfaces that do not offer for me is whether your legs and styles from street and hip-hop, current state of progress towards adequate traction, or the floor may muscles hurt a bit, especially after Music Practice Rooms modern, musical theatre to tap and developing suitable standards, be too hard, leading to longer-term a two hour show where we are enable musicians to ethnic dance. One very important recent research correlating injuries stress related injuries. In view of jumping and sliding and every part rehearse in controlled factor common to most forms of with harsh floors and differentiating of you is on the floor at some point conditions that limit the specific needs of dancers from those of sports people. A copy of and we get very sore legs with noise escape to the the White Paper is free on request just the exercise alone. So having adjacent areas. Built from Harlequin. a floor that really works with us is extremely important. An artist has on a modular design, Interestingly dancers themselves his canvas, a photographer has his the practice rooms can develop an instinct that enables camera, we dancers need our floor them to tell when a floor is right. be adjusted to fit the and the Harlequin Floors are the space available. Kevin Clifton of Strictly Come Dancing explains, “you need to best you can dance on because you trust the tools you work with and don’t feel so tired. It gives us a bit the way to tell if it is a great floor is more ‘umph’ and it works - and that you don’t necessarily notice it that is all that matters we just want Get in touch straight away. If you come onto the a floor that works with us.” You can Telephone: 0844 846 9740 floor and the first thing you notice see the full interview with Karen www.musicpracticerooms.com is the floor, then may be it is too and Kevin on the Harlequin Floors hard or too soft, it is too slippery video channel. 01892 514888 www.harlequinfloors.com

30 Music & Drama Music & Drama 31 Advertorial Feature Caledonian Modular awarded for school building achievement

education projects. In a recent scheme, a brand • Low performance levels - typically CM new school was built only two metres from the buildings achieve air tightness results below fully occupied St James’s Church of England 3m³/m²/hr; three times better than building Junior School at Barrow in Furness, one of the regulations require, meeting enhanced top 100 performing state establishments. insulation specifications and utilising insulated cladding systems; What are modular’s biggest • Poor site operations - we have a large misconceptions? experienced professional construction team The biggest myth is that to minimise costs with experience in both traditional and one-sized modules have to fit all types of modular construction management. building projects. In fact, standard sizing has little to do with delivering cost benefits; How does offsite support it’s quite the reverse actually as there’s no sustainability? point in using a standard module because Over 25 per cent of the module can be building sites, including schools, never come manufactured from A+ rated products of which in standard sizes or shapes. 25 per cent are from recycled sources. Working It stands to reason that it’s more cost and to the BRE Green Guide, Caledonian Modular’s materially effective to manufacture modules for waste is designed out, materials optimised and a specific project. There is no wasted space and waste segregated. Some 97.5 per cent of CM CM’s award winning Farnborough College compromises are not made to meet a perceived factory waste is recycled and all remaining standard in terms of construction or size. waste is reused or converted to energy. manufacturer at the very earliest opportunity. We Modular building projects also involve up to The overall cost of modular construction is work from the architectural drawings to break equivalent to traditional methods. But it is 80 per cent fewer traffic movements to site. In the building down into a series of transportable elements i.e. modules that we can manufacture in the factory, put on a truck and transport to the site and assemble in-situ. A module is rather like a Lego block that’s roughly up to 18 metres long, Highfield Community Primary School Chester is a 1,100 2m building which permits natural lighting and ventilation into the building. four metres tall and five metres wide. If we are engaged early in the process we Stephen Wightman, Managing Director of the UK’s largest modular can look to bring our skill sets to bear and develop the design in the most cost, time and manufacturing company Caledonian Modular says that by choosing modular, you technically efficient manner. This ensures that don’t have to compromise on school design, aesthetics, sustainability or occupier projects run smoothly through all parts of the comfort. And you can be sure that your school will be open for term dates. process and that all parties are fully engaged. About Caledonian Modular Caledonian Modular is one of the largest Whether you’re refurbishing or extending an gradually released back into the building out in ‘as built’ configuration before being modular manufacturing companies in Europe existing school facility or building on a new site, during periods of lower temperatures so it transported to site. and the largest in the UK. It boasts 50 years’ the opportunity to achieve bespoke, aesthetically can be dissipated through natural ventilation. What is modular building? of trading and has almost 300 employees. attractive school design, energy efficiency and The use of rooflights can also optimise the Modular buildings can range from simple single A full turnkey package for schools includes occupier comfort is well within reach using opportunity to deliver good natural day light storey structures through to high rise multimillion modular construction technology. Building without the glare factor. design, manufacture, installation and all pound buildings. They are permanent structures associated site works for all projects of all offsite also confers project certainty, sustainable Our biggest challenge is getting people to which are designed, manufactured and Highfield’s headteacher Nicky Dowling said;“Highfield was involved in our new school’s design right from the start. We achieved the very best building possible through early engagement with Caledonian.” shapes and sizes. construction, quality control, shortening of understand just how superior our buildings approximately 80 per cent fitted out offsite. the construction process and reduces weather are! So we were delighted when CM won Individual modules are transported to site where Stephen Wightman AMIMechE MIoD studied dependency so you can be sure that your school Education Project of the Year in the Builder the project is assembled and completed just like also important to factor in the lower risk and one project, a 1000 square metre 54 bedroom mechanical engineering at the University of will be open for term dates. & Engineer Awards 2014 for the complete any onsite construction. savings in other areas of the project budget accommodation block, using modular Portsmouth. He was MD at Modular UK before construction provided a 33 tonne reduction At Caledonian Modular (CM), we also aim to secondary school we built for Farnborough This method of offsite building typically that offsite construction delivers every time. merging with Caledonian. in CO2 – that’s the equivalent of the annual enhance occupier comfort for the building College in Nottingham. reduces programme time by a minimum of At the end of the day it’s the figure on the bottom line that actually matters. carbon footprint of 3 people. users. We specify ‘phase change materials’ As part of our Corporate Social Responsibility one third so while your site is being prepared, in the design to provide thermal mass to programme to education, CM regularly your new school accommodation is being Other misconceptions include: Why engage on design early? help when a building has heated up due to invites school staff, governors and pupils to manufactured in a quality controlled factory • Not being able to offer a full range of external Delivering a bespoke layout to a good its occupancy and solar gain. While these visit the factory in Newark, Nottinghamshire, environment by a stable experienced workforce. finishes - we can use any traditional materials educational standard design to meet your specific innovative materials do not physically melt, to walk through their new school during its Modular is also less disruptive to the local and our buildings are indistinguishable from requirements can best be achieved through Tel 01636 821645 or visit they absorb heat created by use which is then construction process. Each building is laid community which is especially important in those constructed traditionally; engagement with independent architects and the caledonianmodular.com

32 School Buildings/Green School Buildings/Green 33 Advertorial Feature Advertorial Feature Milestone in new build ‘Don’t let old wooden furniture go to waste’ The foundation stone laying area. Sixth Form students will also ceremony of the West Buckland have their own dedicated study area. School, Devon’s new Sixth Form ~ get paid for making the right environmental decision Headmaster, John Vick says: Boarding House took place last “Since 2008, West Buckland has R-I-E offer schools an environmental and financially beneficial service to tackle the disposal of the month (April). invested in excess of £13.5m in new old hardwood benching and furniture. Rather than allowing building or refurbishment contractors to The new 70 room boarding house facilities, with this ambitious and will open in September - students exciting programme transforming dump such material as waste, R-I-E can buy, strip and remove timber waste direct from school sites Disaster Recovery Solutions will enjoy single en suite rooms the campus. Our new boarding throughout the UK. along with a variety of social areas. house and study centre shows Portakabin Hire, the UK’s leading in disaster recovery and work closely At the same time, a new library and the continuing commitment and The R-I-E service offered has numerous benefits: ambition of the school to provide all supplier of interim building with a number of major insurers study centre is being built that will Financial solutions, has delivered 345 disaster also open in the Autumn. This will of our students with the very best to help ensure disruption is kept to • Waste fees for the project are reduced, as less waste material is recovery projects to date, helping facilities and learning opportunities. an absolute minimum. We have a provide all students from Years 7-13 generated organisations across the UK to get fleet of modules held in stock across with new classrooms, open plan It will be an exciting time for up and running again as quickly as • Reclaimed timber is purchased by R-I-E the UK which allows us to supply study spaces, library and IT resources everyone when the buildings open possible after major incidents such emergency accommodation within and a careers and higher education in the Autumn Term.” • Labour costs reduced as R-I-E can strip the material themselves as flooding, fire and the discovery of hours. Speed of response in an asbestos. • Flexible to the project’s time restraints emergency situation is absolutely “It is really important that all critical.” Environmental organisations – from schools to • Less waste is sent to landfill sites businesses and regardless of size, With over 50 locations from • The reclaimed timber and furniture is re-used in sustainable can be fully operational as fast as Inverness to Plymouth, Portakabin furniture making. possible to minimise the impact of a has the largest hire centre network major incident”, said Robert Snook, in the UK and so is ideally placed • By reusing this helps to reduce the demand on international virgin Director and General Manager of to provide advice and emergency timber resources Portakabin Hire. accommodation to businesses, Health “Our local hire teams around the public sector organisations and School President Paul Orchard-Lisle (left) unveils the foundation stone of West Buckland’s new Some timber found within schools is Iroko and its dust known to be country have a wealth of knowledge schools nationwide. Sixth Form Boarding House. Also pictured are Chair of Governors, John Light (inside right) and Headmaster, John Vick (outside right). harmful and strongly allergic, because of this CLEAPSS has viewed the www.portanews.co.uk 0845 401 0010 service offered by R-I-E as a good idea. Advertorial Feature Said CLEAPPS Phil Bunyan: “We discussed your service and took the view that we think it is a good idea for schools. We have long been concerned Headmaster delighted with new play area at the indiscriminate re-use of iroko, often used for benching, by D&T Reclamation departments in schools, given report of the adverse effects of its dust. We Clifton Hall School is an unsafe in any way. Above all, the Result area, strict health and safety believe that relieving schools of the opportunity to use this material has benefits somewhat beyond just paying for the timber”. established and prestigious play equipment had to provide The installation process had to provision was required. The play In Education school located in a rural and an exciting and thrilling play be carefully planned. It was vital area was duly handed over on spacious setting on the west side experience. To meet all criteria, that the well kept playing fields time and everyone is delighted ‘Don’t let wood go to waste’ of Edinburgh. The school enjoys Russell Play developed a bespoke surrounding the proposed play with the final result. excellent facilities and is run by play unit, the Spielart Tübingen. area were preserved because any Or as Rod Grant, Headmaster of a progressive and enthusiastic A final design solution was damage would create a major Clifton Hall School put it: “I have team who endeavour to create agreed and one of the features problem. The timescale for been impressed by Russell Play’s the best environment for their was a symbolic shield which is installation was fairly tight and professionalism and eagerness to pupils. The school approached the emblem of the school. This clearly, as it is a well used playing please the school”. Russell Play as they were was hand-crafted and attached considering building a play to the unit. space which would enhance the play activities of their younger Leasing Arrangement children during break times. Leasing is not a traditional route Consultation to acquiring play equipment but in keeping with the progressive Green service providers for surplus Russell Play held a series of thinking of Clifton Hall School, consultation meetings with Jane furniture & timber waste streams. Dalmau the Bursar, who was very it was agreed that a lease purchase would be suitable Fees payed direct to Educational clear about the brief that Russell Establishment, lower project waste fees, less Play was required to meet. The for this acquisition. This fitted equipment had to be sympathetic in with their overall budget waste to landfill, UK wide collections. to the surroundings, offer requirements extremely well. It excellent activities and have the is a first for Clifton Hall School capacity to take large numbers and, indeed, for Russell Play to Tel: 01271 830737 Email: [email protected] of children at any one time provide equipment under such an www.r-i-e.co.uk without it being compromised or arrangement. 01590 675652 www.russell-play.com A bespoke table R-I-E made using reclaimed timber

34 School Buildings/Green School Buildings/Green 35 Advertorial Feature Advertorial Feature Multi-million Pound Make ESOS Easy Development Continues Enistic’s energy monitoring ESOS reporting applies Finance your new school Last year, Adcote School, Shropshire, to most Independent and management systems announced a multi-million pound Schools. If you aren’t can identify energy savings development to build new facilities. sure, the rule is, if you averaging 28%, but they can The new Science Centre is the latest be up to 45% or even more. sports facilities with Timali project to take shape. Three of the have 250 members of Enistic offers an Easy labs are already in operation, with staff then you need ESOS scheme to provide a fourth set to be completed later to report your energy Why wait for those much needed keep it up-to-date. It not only part-fund any school investment we will give you sound advice on this term. The new Science Centre a straightforward route to new facilities at your school benefits your current students and you can choose a finance the most efficient way to use our will enable both Adcote Junior boarders joining Adcote School from consumption data guaranteed compliance. It costs when you can have them today? but also makes your school a period that suits your school’s finance facilities – and Timali can and Senior pupils to benefit from around the region. and energy savings nothing to start your ESOS Why invest a huge lump sum in more attractive offer to future business cycle. Call us today for have your obligation free quote modern facilities to maximise their Headmaster Gary Wright opportunities by 5 journey with a free meeting your sports infrastructure when applicants. Also, the better the a chat with one of our experts, ready in just 24 hours! understanding and enjoyment commented, “Single-sex schools December. to identify the scope of work. you can spread the cost with a facilities the more likely it is to of Science. The Art and Textiles such as Adcote help break down Subsequently we provide an finance agreement? generate a significant revenue departments are also moving to gender stereotypes. Nationally Handled properly, the ESOS action plan for guaranteed A finance agreement with Timali stream when hiring to the public. refurbished premises, providing a women are under-represented in scheme can work for you makes total commercial sense. In fact, the increase in revenue light, comfortable and inspiring science but all-girl schools help to compliance at a fixed price. and reduce Spreading the cost of a large can often cover the finance place for girls to be creative. buck this trend. The new Science For further information costs as well investment is not only tax efficient repayments. Timali are specialists Additionally, as part of a further Centre will enable all our pupils as improve telephone 0844 875 1600, but also evens your cashflow and in providing finance solutions 2.1 million pound investment, work to benefit from these exceptional your school’s email [email protected] makes future business planning for sports facilities investment in has commenced on the second of facilities, which along with schools. We understand the issues carbon If you would like more easier. It can also mean you get the three new boarding houses which stimulating teaching, will maximise that a modern school faces when footprint. information on ESOS compliance development you need sooner. So will provide 120 new beds for the their understanding and enjoyment keep your cash in the bank and get making such a major investment. Typically download the free guide from our growing number of weekly and full of all three sciences.” the infrastructure you need today clients using website at www.enistic.com. Whether it’s a completely new Pictured: Ivan Phillips (Head of Science); Ying Liu (Adcote International); Gary Wright with Timali. (Headmaster); Matt Lindow (Adcote International) in the new lab. sports complex, a new 3G pitch or just some new pieces of equipment Advertorial Feature When it comes to sports education and leisure facilities for the gym, Timali offers a totally for your students it is crucial you flexible solution that can fully or Ashwell Biomass helps Schools go Green Telephone 01371 870 815 or visit www.timali.co.uk Ashwell Biomass is one of years. The RHI payments are also the leading manufacturers, index linked. suppliers and installers of Biomass systems can also be quite biomass solutions in the UK large so, proper planning and design with over 450 successful is needed. We usually start by installations to date deciding if a system can be installed into an existing boiler room or needs including schools, colleges to be housed in a purpose built and sports centres. building in the grounds. We then work on which fuel will best suit the Our systems are particularly beneficial installation: wood chips need more to schools where large amounts of space for storage and delivery whilst heat are required for classrooms, wood pellets offer a more compact SPECILIST FINANCE PROVIDER accommodation and swimming pools. Schools using oil or LPG as solution. We then work on access their main heating fuel will benefit requirements and available space. A most from a biomass boiler with small biomass boiler and fuel store savings ranging anywhere from 20 to can often have the footprint of a 50%. Biomass is classed as carbon 20ft container. SPECIALIST FINANCE PROVIDER FOR neutral and will reduce your school’s Biomass options to consider: or ESCO, we design, install, Ashwell Biomass will be happy to carbon footprint by up to 90%. maintain and service the boiler answer any questions you may have • Self-funded: The school purchases THE SPORT AND LEISURE INDUSTRY Biomass boiler systems can be FOC. You don’t even need to and to carry out a free of charge a system and benefits from reduced feasibility survey at your school to quite costly so, to offset the costs order or pay for the biomass fuel, Preserve your existing credit lines and take advantage of our unsecured lending routes. heating costs, a short payback indicate the benefits of biomass, of installation the government it all comes as one package. We period and receives all of the RHI show you installation costs and work Bespoke packages for anything from sports equipment to large projects, such as sports halls. has introduced the OFGEM for 20 years. Typical savings from then sell the heat to your school out RHI income and payback periods. regulated Renewable Heat We offer a number of flexible terms that are tailored to the clients needs and budgets. 15 to 50%. at a reduced rate compared to oil If you would like to know more or Incentive or RHI. The RHI pays or gas. Typical savings from 15 to book a no obligation feasibility a fixed amount per kilowatt of • Fully-funded: We install a biomass We pride ourselves on our competitive rates and efficient service. survey at your school please contact: heat produced with biomass fuel, system at your school without to 30% per annum from year one in most cases many thousands using any of your capital, we call without spending a penny on the Tel: 01162 604050/07795 296 161 Email: [email protected] Tel: 01371 870815 www.timalifinance.co.uk of pounds, every quarter for 20 this an Energy Services Contract capital cost. www.ashwellbiomass.com

36 School Buildings/Green School Buildings/Green 37 Advertorial Feature Cut your heating bills with a Fully Funded ‘Biomass Boiler’

Does your school spend over knowledge. Conversely, £40,000/year on heating? our fully funded solution, If so, you should consider inclusive of an ongoing reducing your heating bills maintenance programme and carbon emissions as well and guaranteed fuel supply as securing an independent could be the answer to your energy supply with a Biomass problems. Boiler. Biomass boilers are very demonstrate your school’s Company Director Marco With current political tension efficient, durable, clean and green credentials. Campolucci-Bordi says “Our around the world and the easy to use, requiring minimal in-house team working with They are easily integrated into volatility of international installation disruption and our business partners offer the most buildings and ideally suited energy markets, if you haven’t management time. Biomass very best service ensuring that for high heat (or cooling) users already, now is the time for will save you on average 20% commercial renewable energy with hot water requirements such you to opt for a renewable year on year on your heating development for each client as schools, particularly those energy supply and protect bills, with the greatest savings is professionally handled and with onsite swimming pools, your school. Oil and gas prices coming by switching to wood successfully delivered. Our gymnasiums or sports facilities. are currently low but they will pellets from expensive oil and experienced “one stop solution” go up again. LPG based systems. You get To qualify for your free in-house team manage projects You may want the immediate clean, green energy to heat Biomass Boiler, your school through the entire development benefits of using Biomass your school property. must have been trading for cycle from feasibility to heating but perhaps your Biomass Boilers are close at least five years, must be installation, allowing us to school has other financial to carbon neutral and paying business rates and must progress each client through priorities? A Biomass Boiler would make a significant maintain a strong balance sheet. the process as smoothly as is a high capital expenditure improvement to your Applicants must also own the possible.” To discuss your energy item and requires a certain business’s energy performance school premises or have at least requirements contact Green level of technical buying rating and allow you to 20 years left on the lease. Switch Solutions today.

For further details call Green Switch Solutions on 01704 896 406. £1m refurbishment King Edward’s Witley, Surrey, has and girls who board on a full-time, embarked upon a £1m investment weekly or occasional basis, as well programme to create a co- as providing a base and facilities educational boarding and day for a further 40 local day pupils. house for its Lower School (Year 7 Linked and paired boarding for boys & 8) pupils. and girls has been a feature of King The project involves the Edward’s for almost half a century refurbishment of the historic in the senior houses, representing Queen Mary House (QMH), one of a pioneering move for a boarding the School’s iconic buildings but school and one that is very much currently a boys only domain. The in keeping with the School’s ethos extensive development allows for of creating an environment which Queen Mary House and Copeland emulates the real world. Pupils House (where girls in Year 7 & are segregated in terms of their 8 currently board) to combine, sleeping arrangements but are able as a location for a number of Husband and wife team Nick and creating a joint Lower School to socialise in the communal living TV and film dramas, including Vicki Rendall will become House House in keeping with the co- areas – replicating an authentic Agatha Christie’s Poirot. The Parents for QMH (Mr Rendall has educational paired arrangement home from home experience. refurbished House, which will been Housemaster for senior boys that exists in the Senior houses at Queen Mary House enjoys a open in September 2015, will house, Grafton House since 2012 King Edward’s Witley. The newly 148 year history, having started allow boys and girls to board and Mrs Rendall will also be refurbished house will provide life as a Convalescent Home on different floors but with joining the English department accommodation for up to 40 boys in 1867 and having been used access to shared common areas. as a teacher).

38 School Buildings/Green Independent Schools Magazine 39 Advertorial Feature How best can schools support children who struggle in their mathematical learning? Salvage, save and sell… Developing numeracy through talk Frances Mwale, Prep Headmistress at Farlington School, Sussex, had long wondered what hindered some pupils’ mathematical achievement. Surely if Ripping out an old satisfy the demand, we are always looking to replenish our stocks, 10,000 hours’ practice can make an expert of anybody, then those drill and science lab, classroom and are willing to travel all over practice pages of sums should mean that all learners steadily master the or replacing your school the country and beyond, looking furniture and lockers? for interesting wares to restore four rules of number before focussing on using and applying them? and sell. Do not skip! You are sitting on a The main problem is that Led first by pupil questionnaires so in mathematics, we move mathematics is not only about and interviews, it certainly became forwards at age-appropriate stages. potential fund to offset the cost One thing worth considering numbers. The French mathematician, apparent that a poor grasp of Instead of moving on to ‘harder’ of the replacements. is that Reclamation yards like ours, can also source and supply Henri Poincare, described mathematical terminology was concepts, learners needed to go At Wells Reclamation in Somerset, deeper and wider with mathematical building materials and other mathematics, unlike poetry, as “the commonly troublesome and so our we specialise in architectural art of giving the same name to own version of ‘talking maths’ was learning. In an eagerness to show things to help with your building salvage, antiques, vintage different things”: concerned with borne. Helped greatly by colleagues progress, learners can be pushed or restoration projects. Natural furniture and garden statuary. symbols, creativity, relationships who were keen to get on board, on before they are ready and the practising. Classroom challenges stone and timber flooring, kitchen understanding firmly in place. An The market for reclaimed and a rich language, all are integral Talking Maths Lessons encouraged such as these really motivate units for the boarding houses, emphasis on playing with numbers industrial and utilitarian furniture to the subject. In mathematical speaking at every stage of children to make discoveries in the tables, chairs or garden features thinking, identifying patterns is and trying ideas out should and materials is growing at a mathematical learning. Each session more abstract topics too: working to name but a few. We and other come before being shown more key. Amongst pupils’ most feared began with vocabulary cards, out primes, inventing sequences, prodigious rate. With this has prescriptive methods for various reclamation yards across the UK, topics are fractions, decimals and discussed with a partner, mimed, deciphering codes. Ideas that seem come a desire for reclaimed school sure your builders take care when Next take some good pictures sums. will always consider part exchange division, perhaps because they fail shared, explained through pictures neat and clever, can be so rewarding. items such as lab tops, stools, ripping it out. Although part of the of your items, ideally including to appreciate the links between the for items you want to sell with or any other way that worked. In Being good at maths is often So, how best can we support lockers, desks, decorative features, charm of an old school desk is the measurements and quantities and numbers: denominator compared to other things that you would like speaking to others, pupils were able equated with being quick; that children who struggle in their flooring etc. This look often wear and tear, something in three then email them over. You can numerator, for example. mental maths and correct answers to buy. to hear and refine their thinking, mathematical learning? I would incorporating metal and wood, pieces or missing a leg will not be contact us on 01749 677087 or are the only success indicators. Just learning and practising rules consolidate their understanding. suggest that we get more creative looks great in both a traditional How can you make the most of this worth buying. At the same time, But to push back the boundaries [email protected]. is not enough: mathematicians They listened and helped each other with them and bring in more talk. or more contemporary setting trend? You have to take a good old lab tops will still be of interest of mathematical thinking students develop a ‘feel’ for number. They with improved ways to express Rather than a main diet of sums, and is favoured by those with a look at what you are replacing. If even with sink and tap holes and If interested, we will get back need to see problems in a new make decisions about methods, try ideas. They moved from a position encourage chatter about number, bit of cash to spend and a taste you think it would be of interest a plethora of graffiti. Some purists to you with an idea of price. If light and ask new questions. With different ways to get to a solution of only being able to explain a use mathematical language as a for the nostalgic. In order to to a company like ours make the items are not for us, we will well-developed teaching methods, will keep the graffiti and others will and then check back that these word by demonstrating the sum, regular part of other daily activities, more application, less rote learning sand it away, but it is always worth recommend another company really work. This gives mathematics to being able to give succinct, allow wrong answers to be debated its excitement and intrinsic appeal, well-constructed definitions. Having and fewer columns of sums, why salvaging. who can help... Good luck! and give opportunity for discovering which if lacking, make mastering the explored words for the day, these are we less good at manipulating new possibilities. Provide plenty of WELLS RECLAMATION algorithms an uphill and arduous were then reinforced through wholly numbers in our heads? As a child, I Est 1985 concrete manipulatives, linking the journey. practical activities. Of course they would visit local shops to spend my abstract mysteries of symbols to really liked the fact that a Talking pocket money, working out change Despite learning support and booster bricks, counters, sweets and words Maths lesson did not lead to a and handing over the right coins. classes, a significant proportion of – anything that can be handled and page of neatly produced sums, but I measured and made clothes for pupils in the school where I was moved around, show patterns and perhaps to a packet of mixed sweets my dolls, weighed out ingredients working were not progressing as differences. Most importantly, make shared in the fairest way or a leaflet for cooking and played games that well as we had hoped. I decided to full use of mathematical talking to folded exactly into thirds, through required adding and subtracting: seek to reveal a better way forwards. there were always valid reasons for promote a deeper understanding. careful measuring. Talking Maths I read widely about the importance Lessons boosted confidence and of language in mathematics, starting unravelled many of the mysteries right back with the idea of how we that our lower achievers had been Pupils enjoy maths magic think. How do infants, who have experiencing. not yet learned to speak, think? I Do you know your 1089 times and shared with them some of the don’t know about you, but when I In order to do mathematics, we use table? Did you know you can cut a ‘Magic Maths’ trickery from his cube of cheese into 93 pieces with am thinking I do so with a stream notation and symbols: a language latest book. Highlights included nets 8 straight cuts? Or that there are of silent words swimming around in itself. Young learners have to of cubes which formed themselves; in my head. I do the same when I appreciate that a number symbol, 12,988,816 different ways to cover magic squares which work in 24 read for pleasure: I play with the say 5, can mean 5 ducks, or 5p a chess board with 32 dominoes? rich vocabulary in my mind. Young or 5 pupils. They have to take on The girls in Key Stage Two at The directions and so much more! children can be observed giving a board the complete language Queen’s School, Chester, do! running commentary to everything of mathematics, beginning with The girls, age 7 – 11, were thrilled they do. Then gradually over time comparisons such as difference and entertained by the author of Over 5 acres of architectural salvage, garden statuary and antique that talk changes to internalised between, big and small, larger than. Murderous Maths and the Agatha & vintage furniture. Specialists in natural stone and timber flooring. thinking. Was this transfer from Working with 2 ½ year olds, I was Parrot books, Kjartan Poskitt who talking aloud to thinking in their fascinated that they could identify recently spent the day at the Lower 01749 677087 heads problematic for some? Was biggest and smallest, but could not School. it building up a barrier to their place 3 frogs in ascending size order. COXLEY, WELLS, SOMERSET BA5 1RQ Kjartan told the girls in the most learning? Could talking aloud help Just as we crawl before we walk, we entertaining way how he became children to make better sense of reverse letters and numbers before an author instead of a rock star www.wellsreclamation.com mathematical ideas? we finally master their formation,

40 School Buildings/Green Independent Schools Magazine 41 Advertorial Feature

Colin Spicer 13-17 age group. He has worked Kilgraston joins Kilgraston from St. Francis’ has joined extensively with International school for girls, College, Hertfordshire, where she Abbey College, House: in the UK as a teacher Perthshire, held the post of Headmistress since Worcestershire, at Hastings and Princiapl at has welcomed 2009. Since 2012, Mrs MacGinty as Principal, Folkestone; in Spain as Senior Mrs Dorothy has chaired the Professional with the Teacher; in Czech Republic as MacGinty (B.Ed., Development Committee of the specific aim of Director of Studies; and in China helping the College attract more as Director of Training. At the Twin N.P.Q.H., Dip.Mont.Ed.) to the Girls’ School Association (GSA), and international students looking to Group in the UK he was Principal role of Principal. Mrs MacGinty will be GSA President 2017. excel in a British boarding school. at Salisbury and Head of Summer As a teacher Colin specialised in the Centres in London. Plymouth Mr Paul Berry College, has been Loreto College School Trip Moor Allerton supply teacher. This experience Devon, now appointed as Preparatory had such an impact on him that the new Head School, he decided to start a career in has Jonathan of The Kingsley Manchester, education. He began teaching Standen Rescued by Halsbury Travel Preparatory as its new has appointed in London for four years, after School, Martin Dunn which he was appointed to work Headmaster, taking over from Dr Warwickshire, and will start in Leading school tour operator, Halsbury Travel, has once again as the new in Firwood Manor in Chadderton. Simon Wormleighton who has September. Headmaster from the start of this He became Director of Studies retired after nine years. He is former Head teacher at demonstrated its quick reactions and dedication to customer Summer Term. After working in the and then Assistant Headteacher With a degree in Ancient The Ryleys Preparatory School Gas industry for six years he moved at Greenbank School in Cheadle service by coming to the rescue of a group from Loreto College, to Honduras where he worked as Hulme in 2006. History and History, Mr Standen in Cheshire and has held the previously spent eight years at position of Deputy Head St Albans, who were stranded in Madrid due to the French air the helm of grammar school, teacher at schools in both the traffic controllers’ strike of 8th and 9th April. Barnard Castle Laura graduated with a first The Crypt School in Gloucester. independent and state sector. School, Durham, class honours degree in Primary In that time he steered the As a keen sportsman and qualified The 23 students and 3 members Keith Sharkey adds: “We had Halsbury Travel has even stepped includes stepping in on those has appointed Education in 2002 and completed school to Academy Status and coach in a range of sports of staff had been on a school contacted the clients’ insurers to in to assist school groups who rare occasions when something Laura Turner including netball, hockey and a Masters in Early Years Education. achieved ‘outstanding’ in every language trip to the Spanish make sure that they were covered had been let down by other tour goes wrong, such as this strike as its new gymnastics, Mr Berry is passionate She then secured senior category in the school’s most capital. Due to fly back on and, within 1 hour 30 minutes operators. In 2013, the company action” says Keith Sharkey. preparatory about giving children as many Thursday 9th April, airline of the airline offices opening, we recent OFSTED Inspection. was featured in the Channel 5 Halsbury Travel was founded in school head. management positions at Polam extra- curricular opportunities as The Crypt was subsequently Easyjet made the announcement had sourced the best alternative programme, ‘Cowboy Traders’, Hall Junior School and Barnard possible and he says that he “takes 1986 by former French teacher, Laura, who is also an inspector recognised as a Teaching School on Wednesday evening that the flights at the best prices, in when they stepped in to rescue Castle Prep School respectively, great pride in being fully involved Keith Sharkey, who passionately for the Independent Schools group’s flight would be cancelled order to get all 26 members of a group whose ski trip was and Mr Standen a National and devoted to the growth of this believes in the educational value Inspectorate, moves up from her gaining experience as ICT co- due to the strike action. the party back to the UK, with a Leader of Education. aspect of school life.” threatened when the company of school travel. Halsbury specialise role as head of pre-prep. ordinator and director of studies. total delay of just 18 hours”. Halsbury they originally booked with in school trips and provide Travel’s He continues: “We had also failed to pass on the payments curriculum-based tours for all Mr Mark Crewe-Read, currently Mark was educated at of the Senior Leadership Managing looked into hiring coaches, for their accommodation, subjects, to numerous destinations Deputy Head at Manchester Wellington College and then Team. He lives in Shropshire Director, taking scheduled bus seats from transport and ski hire. throughout the UK, Europe and Grammar Junior School, will take gained his BSc at the University with his wife (currently head Keith Sharkey, Madrid to London and every “As such a well-established, further afield. They also have up the reins as Head of Castle College of Wales. He has a of Wolverhampton Grammar commented: other option we could think of. financially secure company, specialist brands that provide music House School, Shropshire when wealth of experience teaching School) and two children. His “We explained Luckily, our swift action meant we pride ourselves on our tours, ski trips and sports tours. [to the party leader] that some that we were able to secure 26 Mr Richard Walden retires at the in a number of schools in the interests include, among others, reliability and commitment to Halsbury fully understand that each 20,000 passengers would have seats together for the very next end of this academic year after independent sector both as a fell running, skiing, coaching customer service. Many of us and every group has very specific to rearrange flights for some day.” 18 years of service to the school. class teacher and as a member rugby and playing the bagpipes! are former teachers ourselves requirements, which is why every time after 9th April and that we Halsbury Travel has a proven and understand the pressure to tour is tailor-made; whether it is a would be on the case as soon as track record of stepping in to deliver successful school trips. ski trip to Austria, a football tour airline offices opened at around Chartered Science Teacher status assist school groups whose travel We see our role as taking the to Real Madrid, or a geography trip 8.00am the following morning”. Stonar School, Wiltshire, Head of Science David Wicks has been plans have been disrupted. In stress out of the process, which to Iceland. awarded Chartered Science Teacher status by ASE, the Association The school tour operator 2011, several school groups for Science Education. As one of only 200 individuals in the managed to source flights were stranded across Europe, country and only 3 in the South West, this is a particularly notable for the group from Madrid to due to the Icelandic ash cloud achievement. London Heathrow on 10th April that brought air travel in Chartered status recognises the unique combination of skills, by 09.15 the following morning. the continent to a standstill. knowledge, understanding and expertise that is required by Arrangements were also made Halsbury Travel provided individuals involved in the specific practice and advancement of for airport transfers in Madrid, numerous coaches and ferry science teaching and learning. as well as one extra night of crossings, ensuring that most Dr Sally Divall, Head at Stonar added, “We offer our warm accommodation for the group in managed to return to the UK congratulations to David who is an innovative and inspiring the hotel in which they had been with as little as 12-24 hours’ teacher.” staying. Any extra costs were delay, all at no extra cost to the covered by the group’s insurance. groups. Tel: 0115 9404 303 Email: [email protected] www.halsburygroup.com

42 Independent Schools Magazine Independent Schools Magazine 43 Charles Moore lecture New educational programme Plan now for shared Charles Moore was this year’s authorised biography of the Devon’s Crealy Great Adventure speaker at the Lancing College, most iconic political leader Park is a family run attraction Sussex, Evelyn Waugh lecture. since Churchill. Charles Anson, a set in over 100 acres of beautiful Mr Moore, who is Margaret very distinguished OL, who has Devonshire countryside, and has parental leave scheme Thatcher’s official biographer, is assisted Charles Moore in this launched a brand new educational also a former editor of the Daily monumental task, said of the programme focusing on the Telegraph, Sunday Telegraph evening, “Charles Moore’s talk learning development of Key Stage As yet, there is no clear indication adoption of a child. Both parents leave if they currently offer and the Spectator. He gave a on Margaret Thatcher was as 1 and Key Stage 2 pupils. of the likely take up by employees are now entitled to share 50 weeks’ enhanced maternity pay? fascinating talk attended by gripping and witty as the best of The new educational programme of the new right of shared parental leave and 37 weeks’ statutory • How will the school manage a packed audience of pupils, Evelyn Waugh’s novels and gave... will support a broad range of parents, OLs and staff. leave, introduced last month with pay between them, in a variety staff during challenging or busy such a good feel of Margaret subjects that have been designed to of combinations. Shared parental Thatcher both as political leader great fanfare. The rules surrounding periods? Mr Moore talked about the be both engaging yet fun. Adventure Park is a key focus point challenges of writing the and human being.” shared leave are so complex that leave can be taken by the father of Kay Priestley, Devon’s Crealy for the Park in 2015. Following • What is the impact to pupils there is a fear that this complexity the child or partner of the mother, Great Adventure Park’s Education consultations with educational during the periods of agreed spilt this remaining leave into short will put off many employees. Given depending on who has parental Ambassador said: “We’ve worked experts throughout 2014, the Park leave? periods of leave which she can share hard to produce an informative, fun has created a range of educational the potentially far reaching effects responsibility. A teacher or school employee who with her partner. and value for money package for packages to offer Primary Schools. on employers, schools would be wise Independent school boards should intends to take shared parental Changes to employment law, Primary Schools to utilise as part of Devon’s Crealy Great Adventure not to ignore the issue or fail to put consider today how the changes in the National Curriculum. We can leave can also use the new rules especially one that can offer so Park is proud to be a Park that plans in place now to manage the rights could affect them. offer a fun, yet safe environment to achieve greater flexibility in the much flexibility to the employee, caters for the whole family, from potential effects on staffing. • How they will cope with fathers for learning and we have some the smallest children to parents and timing around when they take that can be concerning for businesses. fantastic facilities allowing children grandparents alike. There are over The scheme, which has been in or partners potentially being leave. For instance, a mother may As with any complex legislation, it is to get up close to some interesting 200 animals and a variety of indoor force since April this year, allows out of the workplace for up to a choose to return to work before her prudent to seek professional advice and intriguing animals and insects.” and outdoor rides and attractions, parents of children born or adopted year? maternity leave period has finished, and discuss the specifics of what Expanding on the educational live character appearances and on or after 5 April 2015, to take • How they will fund enhanced pay convert the remainder of the leave the impact can be on a case by case offering at Devon’s Crealy Great thrills and spills galore. flexible leave following the birth or to employees on shared parental into shared parental leave and then basis to ensure minimal disruption.

Donald MacKinnon, Director of Legal Services at Law At Work Pictured: Charles Moore with Dominic Oliver, Head Master of Lancing College Tel: 01395 234886 www.crealy.co.uk Representing the UK at Space Design Competition A school’s Pencil Bin gets top of the class for recycling Bishop’s Stortford College, who were participating in the for a mobile space settlement Bishop’s Stortford College, and image is Hertfordshire, pupils were sixth national final of the annual housing 10,000 people, designed Riddlesdown Collegiate School. Leafield Environmental is members of the winning UK Space Design Competition to travel powered by solar sails in They had earned their places launching a new, pencil team in the UK Space Design (UKSDC). a cycler orbit between the Earth either by winning at a regional no minor shaped novelty bin for the and Mars in the year 2060. They heat or producing a top video school environment. The Competition. As a result, two This huge challenge saw 45-50 received advice throughout the entry. brightly coloured pencil range College pupils will form part pupils from different schools thing weekend from Imperial College have been introduced in of the British Team at the From the winning company, working cooperatively to form undergraduates with specialist A smart and distinctive backpack Made to Marathon’s exacting response to customer demand, international final in Florida twelve members were selected a ‘company’. Nine Bishop’s knowledge relevant to the design can be the defining element of a quality standards, this junior sized specifically for children aged during the summer. to form the British team which Stortford College pupils took process. school uniform that reinforces a 3-8 years to encourage will go on to the international backpack has a classic school Imperial College London hosted part. This year the students were Each ‘company’ then had to distinguished and quality image, recycling. final at NASA’s Kennedy Space bag design and is manufactured over 200 students aged 14 to 18 asked to present detailed designs complete a 50 page presentation adding positive features & style to a Ideal for both indoors and Center in Florida this summer, in the hard wearing & durable and make a 35 minute school’s reputation. outside, and manufactured competing against teams from all Performance fabric, unique to presentation in a sales pitch in durable polyethylene for over the world. Congratulations The ’Minor’ backpack from Marathon. It is available in a format, to the judges and 200 a long and useful life, each go to Bishop’s Stortford College Marathon, has been exclusively fellow competitors. wide range of colours from stock pencil bin has a 70 litre plastic designed to cater to the high pupils Victoria Farrant and and provides schools with the liner inside to assist easy and The winning design, called Matthew Braz who were selected standards and specifications of clean emptying and disposal. Balaluceras was proposed by option to create a bespoke finish for this unique opportunity. Prep schools and their pupils. The Optional extras include: WRAP ‘Vulture Aviation’, and was to the Performance quality, with size and shape of the Minor has compliant recycling label, a comprised of a multi-torus In addition to this wonderful contrasting coloured piping, achievement, Victoria won the been developed to comfortably fit lock, steel liner and ground design which was praised by webbing or panel combinations, A4 books & folders whilst limiting fixing kit. the judges for its detailed Dick Edwards Design Award. excessive over packing, which has which will allow any school to set radiation shielding and cargo Each company had one winner The range is priced from £140. the potential to damage a pupils their standard and stand out from handling systems. The team who, in the judgement of the Email: [email protected] developing spine. the crowd. included students from Quintin organisers, made the most Kynaston Academy, Capital City significant contribution in terms Academy, Westminster School, of team work, project input and Tel: 01932 359188 Tel: 01225 816541 Nonsuch High School for Girls, organisational skills. www.marathonss.com www.leafieldrecycle.com

44 Independent Schools Magazine Products and Services 45 Reclamation In Education Heads Hunted Green service providers for surplus Among the upcoming head furniture & timber waste streams. and principal appointments: World renowned historian and broadcaster, Andrew Roberts, returned to his old school with a presentation on Napoleon. Discussing elements of his latest bestselling book, Napoleon the Great, Fees payed direct to Educational King Edward’s School Birmingham he delighted his audience at Surrey’s Cranleigh School with a new look at the Emperor’s character, The Establishment, Lower project waste fees, including his highly developed, and previously under reported, sense of humour. less waste to landfill, UK wide collections. The softer side of the great dictator will be coming to the small screen soon, as Andrew has just had Pennthorpe School Sussex his book co-opted as a TV series. Digest Tel: 01271 830737 Email: [email protected] Also attending the lecture were several members of the Roberts family, including his father Simon and www.r-i-e.co.uk uncle Christian (pictured) both of whom were Head Boys in their time at Cranleigh. The Roberts family Rookwood School Sussex had five generations of children attending the School.

If you would like mention made of your upcoming head or principal appointment for Schools featured in this issue include: Design - Construction - Maintenance - Refurbishment which applications are sought please let us Abbey College Derby High School Moor Allerton Preparatory School Abbey School Farnborough Hill School Newcastle High School for Girls know – there is no charge for a listing. Abingdon School Framlingham College Nottingham Girls’ High School Lowering heating costs and cutting carbon Experts in natural & non-turf sport surfaces Adcote School Glenalmond College Oundle School emissions with biomass fuelled boilers Bancroft’s School Hammond School Plymouth College Sports turf experts T: +44(0) 1604 864 575 Design, install, service and maintain Barnard Castle School Hampton School Prior Park College E: [email protected] W: www.total-play.co.uk Bishop’s Stortford College Highfield School Sports turf construction News items, contributions, Queen’s School Over 100 years of solid fuel Natural & artificial surfaces Bolton School Kilgraston School Sherborne Preparatory School and biomass experience. Drainage & irrigation comments and suggestions are Bramcote Junior School King Edward’s Witley Solihull School Renovation & maintenance always welcomed by the editor. Burgess Hill School for Girls King’s Monkton School Canford School Kingsley Preparatory School St. Helen & St. Katharine School Tel: 0112 604050 Email [email protected] Call 01722 716361 Castle House School Lancing College Taunton School www.ashwellbiomass.com www.mjabbott.co.uk Please email to: Clifton Hall School Laxton Junior School Terra Nova School [email protected] Cranleigh School Lockers Park Preparatory School Tettenhall College Dame Allan’s Schools Lord Wandsworth College West Buckland School Denstone College Prep School Millfield School Wisbech Grammar School A BRAND YOU CAN TRUST

Create a winning team with the ULTIMATE in Custom Performance Sportswear The Independent Schools Magazine is read by decision-makers Visit our website: gforcesportswear.co.uk – Governors, Heads, Bursars, Departmental Managers – and Call our sales team on: 0116 255 6326 reflects news, ideas, influences, and opinions in the independent education sector. A personal copy is mailed to heads and other key Or send us an email at: [email protected] personnel in fee-paying independent schools plus opinion formers in governments, political parties and educational associations. It is also available on the internet. DESIGN : INSTALLATION : MAINTENANCE Vires per Verum – Strength through Truth Pitch Construction : Piped Drainage Systems Sand Slitting : Blec Vibro Sand Banding Koro Surfacing : Vertidraining Topdressing : Overseeding Editorial Advisory Board The publishers are grateful for the interest, advice and support of a distinguished Editorial Advisory Board whose members currently include: Willow Farm, Red Cat Lane Burscough, Ormskirk L40 0RF Richard Brown: Head, Dorset House School, Sussex Sir Chris Woodhead, formerly Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Education and t 01257 255321 f 01257 255327 Deborah Leek-Bailey, OBE: 2008 Chair of the Independent Schools now chairman of the independent schools group Cognita and a Professor at the University of Buckingham e [email protected] Association (ISA), Independent School representative with the National www.duncanrosslanddrainage.co.uk College for School Leadership and former Head teacher of Babington Henry Briggs: Senior Partner, HW, Chartered Accountants Birmingham and a House School, Kent former school Governor Tory Gillingham: General Secretary of AMDIS – the Association of Marketing Elisabeth Lewis-Jones: a governor of Bloxham School, Oxfordshire; 2008 and Development in Independent Schools President of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations and Director of Liquid Public Relations, a consultancy with expertise within the education sector Practical Training tailored to your needs Alex Beynon: Former Head of Press Relations, Independent Schools Council (ISC) Kevin Fear: Head, Nottingham High School Tracy Cook: Head of Press, Independent Schools Council

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