March 2020

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VEHICLE CERTIFICATION NATIONWIDE SUPPLIERS OF PEUGEOT (RECOMMENDED), AGENCY FORD & VAUXHALL 2 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] In this issue... Teachers’ Pension Scheme – latest news & views Pages 42 – 44 05 Managing Mental Health why supervision is key 06 Powering Pupil Performance Through Diet academic & sporting benefits explored Fascination... 07 Grit or Grades Dauntsey’s School, Wiltshire, welcomed developing resilience journalist, TV presenter and former cabinet minister, Michael Portillo, as part of the 20 Eating Disorders School’s Mercers’ Lecture series. Michael presented his lecture to an audience of new support concept 900 pupils, staff and members of the local community, talking about his life in politics 24 Profile and, more recently, in the media. in conversation with Edward Hayter Born to a Spanish civil war refugee and a Scottish mother, Michael gained fame at an early 28 Pedagogical Reading Groups age as the face of Ribena. After studying history at Cambridge, he entered politics in 1984, the ‘Why’ and the ‘How’ serving in Margaret Thatcher’s government. Michael held a variety of ministerial positions 40 Changing Face of Governorship and was seen by many as the natural successor how the role has ~ and is ~ developing to Thatcher until a shock result in the 1997 election saw him voted out of office in what is now known as the ‘Portillo Moment’. Michael Plus gave many entertaining insights to his time in 08 Pen-pal scheme links pupils with alumni cabinet and enlightening behind-the-scenes 10 Staff accommodation - new pitfalls to avoid tales of the Iron Lady herself. 11 Teaching & Learning Conference invitation Since leaving politics, Michael has reinvented 12 Junior Duke Award comes home himself as a media presence both in political CAREFREE SCHOOL MINIBUS OWNERSHIP discussion programmes and documentaries. 16 Eco-awareness takes hold The audience was fascinated as he related 18 Summer date for female entrepreneurship programme stories of how chance encounters, along with 26 Boys - but only one day a week! his passion for steam trains, fuelled his second 30 Developing reading skills Choose from our complete range of versatile career in television. 32 New financial year brings new employment rules 34 Music, Drama & Dance Focus Feature 9 - 17 Seat School Minibuses Cover background 38 Bursar~treasurer relationship explored 39 Partnerships celebrated in Parliament Transformation... 45 Changing Faces, Changing Places; Heads Hunted Abingdon Prep School, Oxfordshire, has received 47 Contact Us; Editorial Advisory Board; free e-mag offer • Finance Plans To Suit All Budgets Call today to arrange a quotation planning permission for a new building to Is Your School Mentioned? See page 47 for an A-Z listing or free demonstration house a Music School, a second science lab, • Nationwide Service & Support purpose-built spaces for CDT and four additional classrooms for Years 6 and 7. The new building will also create space to Covid 19 and your school • D1 and B Licence Minibuses The Independent Schools Council Digital Strategy Group has established an ad hoc working group to transform many of the School’s existing facilities, update school leaders with emerging advice and practice – providing best advice with practical steps 01202 091618 including a major change to the library which • New & Pre-Owned Available to combat the Covid 19 virus and begin to think about the challenges and issues around enabling redkite-minibuses.com will more than double in size and undergo students to continue learning should an education institution face closure. complete refurbishment becoming a bright, The basic message is: “It is essential for schools to initiate sensible conversations about a potential • Driver Assist Options [email protected] modern new learning space with teaching, break closure situation as soon as possible. Be pragmatic and continue to plan strategically for potential out and quiet reading areas. There will be a new eventualities. It is important to think through and seek advice on how to maximise learning multi-use hall for the younger years and much opportunities for pupils”. improved facilities for Computing, Drama and For guidance: Learning Support. https://iscdigital.co.uk/coronavirus-continuing-learning For general information abour coronavirus: VEHICLE Head Craig Williams said work is due to begin at CERTIFICATION NATIONWIDE SUPPLIERS OF PEUGEOT (RECOMMENDED), https://www.isc.co.uk/sector-info/coronavirus-information-for-schools AGENCY FORD & VAUXHALL the start of this year’s summer holiday. Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 3 England rugby stars inspire next generation

Abingdon School, Oxfordshire, sixth former and England Rugby Under 18 Fly Half, Charlie Atkinson, was among the Abingdon School boys and students from other local schools, who welcomed the England team to Abingdon School last month (February) to train ahead of their remaining Six Nations’ matches.

Speaking about meeting the MP’s masterclass players who have inspired him, Barnard Castle School students students. They certainly asked Charlie, who also plays Fly Half have received a political masterclass some difficult questions, but for Wasps Academy, said, by their newly elected MP, during a showed brilliant insight into some visit to the school. of the challenges facing young “Having the opportunity to watch England train up close at people today. pathway, working together with Dehenna Davison, MP for Bishop my own school was extremely club academies, has produced Auckland, observed a Politics lesson “Barnard Castle School is so inspiring and motivating for several successful professional at Barnard Castle School and was important to the town, not only myself and other pupils. It also and national team rugby players invited to speak to Sixth Form as the second biggest employer, showed me the step up required in recent years. students who are studying the but also as valued members of in skills and game management subject at A Level. Ms Davison also the community. I look forward to for me to reach a similar level Headmaster, Michael Windsor, met with Headmaster, Tony Jackson working with them more closely in and I hope to meet them again met England Head Coach, Eddie and was given a tour of the school. the years ahead.” in the future.” Jones, and thanked him for the time his squad took to talk to Following her successful election Charlie joined Abingdon at age Headmaster Tony Jackson added: spectators after their training. campaign in December 2019, when 11 and has progressed through “Our students took a great Mr Windsor said, “It was a great she was overwhelmingly elected as the pathway the School has in deal away from the experience, privilege and a pleasure to be the first Conservative Party Member place for talented players. This finding Ms Davison’s fresh and able to welcome the England of Parliament for Bishop Auckland, contemporary approach to her role team to Abingdon. Many Ms Davison became one of the both engaging and inspiring. I hope students took the opportunity youngest MPs, and was recently Ms Davison will become a regular to come out and see the team selected as a member of the Home visitor to Barney and I’d like to train and I am sure they will Affairs Select Committee. wish her all the very best in her new have been inspired by the focus, Ms Davison said: “It was such a position on the Home Affairs Select skill and commitment that was pleasure to visit Barney school Committee and as our Member of on display today. I very much and meet so many enthusiastic Parliament.” enjoyed meeting Eddie Jones,

Pictured: Dehenna Davison MP with Tony Jackson, Headmaster at Barnard Castle School who is such a dynamic and charismatic leader”. Pictured: (top right) Fly Halves - George Ford (England) & Charlie Atkinson (England U18 Lexden winner & Abingdon School) and (above) Headmaster Michael Windsor meets Eddie Jones Wendy Flint, Head of Sixth Form the nominee and a sample piece Megan started to realise what an “We are absolutely delighted for at Kingsley School, Devon, of assessed written work. amazing achievement it was for Megan and very proud of her.” and Kathryn Makepeace, Head her to win.” Megan was greeted at the House of English travelled to London of Lords by Neil Roskilly (ISA Finally, Megan and her two for the presentation of the CEO) and Lord Lexden and was teachers went to the tea-room Independent Schools Association given a tour of the building. where they were treated to a (ISA) Lexden Prize to Head Girl delicious afternoon tea and were Megan Wray. Head of Sixth Form, Mrs Wendy able to have informal discussions Flint said: “We were then treated The Lexden prize celebrates the about the award, the House of to a seat in the gallery above the achievement of sixth formers; Lords, and the day in general. Chambers where the Peers were achievement and education are debating various questions. We Mrs Flint added: “Everyone made considered in the broadest sense, all agreed that this was absolutely us feel very welcome and we all definitely not just academic. left feeling extremely privileged. fascinating! After this, we moved Well done Megan!” The entry process has three parts: to a private room where the a short nomination from the ISA official presentation took place. Kingsley Headmaster, Mr Pete Member, a personal statement by I think it was at this stage that Last (pictured with Megan) said:

4 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Managing mental health in school – why supervision has to be on our radar In two decades from now, schools will be amazed that supervision wasn’t automatically part of the package for those with the privilege of supporting young people with mental health concerns, suggests Lara Péchard, Headteacher at St Margaret’s School, Hertfordshire... Over the last decade, pastoral work teacher who is petrified about the Involvement can be Risk of deterring in schools has changed significantly prospect of a child self-harming in and continues to evolve year on their lesson and feels uncomfortable ‘thankless’, even tragic emerging teaching talent Schools with the resources and There is no doubt that these year. In the majority of cases, teaching them, to a younger teacher a spot of luck might be able to expectations will deter emerging most teachers will have joined the who has allowed themselves to get talent from joining the profession profession without having had any too close to a suicidal child, and appoint a paediatric nurse with a and for some, the increasing training in mental health at all, nor then faces panic and uncertainty natural disposition for supporting demands on teachers in this area would they have anticipated a need about how to safeguard that child the child and family and the and the inability to safeguard it to possess specialist knowledge in – the scenarios are diverse and courageous conversations that this happening in their classroom, makes this area. In truth, most teachers often requires. However, for many complex. In situations like these retirement even more appealing. will have picked up varying skills subsequent training and support schools this mental health champion in this area simply via on-the- job may serve to reassure staff, but only will be a teacher with a timetable, Importantly, pastoral staff need the training. to an extent. The likelihood is, they albeit it a reduced one. Often those time to manage and reflect on the interested in this kind of role have difficult issues that come across their Schools back in the noughties and will understandably continue to been flipped from teaching into desk and this is where supervision earlier, managed pastoral issues feel uneasy. Given the explosion of a mental health role as they have comes in. Supervision is a type in-house with the infrequent use of mental health issues there is also an really enjoyed a pastoral case or of professional counselling where outsourced experts, which would increasing likelihood that teachers teachers and staff talk through cases usually have been managed by the will find themselves in challenging two and shown themselves to be and their experience of them with a family outside of school. To put situations with vulnerable children. effective. qualified mental health professional. this into context this was also a time For some there is a natural Clearly, no school should consider Some schools are lucky enough when schools didn’t get involved in tendency to want to lean into an appointment to this role for to have supervision with a clinical online safety issues. Today many the child, offering more support anyone without the heart and the psychologist or other expert. schools will have a network of psychologically than is wise; hardly stomach for the work. It can be counsellors and clinical psychologists surprising given the vocational the most rewarding of work but Lack of ‘supervision’ to draw upon. It is also becoming nature of the job. also thankless and at worst, tragic. feels unsafe more common for schools to engage Today, parents are choosing schools Perhaps most difficult of all is that Right now, mental health support pupils, parents and staff in all kinds that are academically strong and schools are often blamed. Blamed in a school without supervision of therapy, while often picking up can also provide an army of pastoral by teachers for allowing a child feels unsafe, for both the members the bill themselves. staff to deal with all eventualities. with complex needs back into the of staff and the school itself. With a rising number of mental Schools now have a legal obligation classroom and blamed by the parent Supervision has to be on every health concerns affecting the young, to provide an identifiable member of who doesn’t enjoy the prospect that school’s radar, it is costly in time support has undoubtedly struggled staff as a mental health champion their parenting has gone wrong and money but we owe it to our to keep up and at this stage it is not for pupils to be directed towards. somewhere along the line. frontline to look after them. In clear whether it can, or indeed ever time, schools will be training Good schools will train up their When things work at their best should, meet demand. Most schools supervision skills to their own staff staff, investing in strong options the struggling child will be picked are of course deeply committed and in this way the benefits will such as Mental Health First Aid or up by a teacher and channelled to to supporting young people in trickle down. any MIND course. the mental health lead and they crisis but the truth is, as a sector The truth is, all heads should have Using experienced colleagues to will either work their magic or we needed to get much better at supervision as mandatory just as provide regular updates on how move them on to another level of dealing with mental health issues, it is for the counsellor. Through to deal with eating disorders, self- support. However, often things especially those impacting young supervision, heads will also have an get more critical very quickly and people today. For schools though, harm and suicide prevention and important outlet and with it they without warning. Schools that have the problem is that this burden has drip-feeding these across the year will improve in setting the right fallen mostly on them. can also boost the confidence of a suffered a pupil suicide can help emotional tone and language for teaching team. Using anonymised share some important if not difficult their school. The likelihood is, in The dangers of getting real-life case studies and having lessons. Ultimately appointing one two decades from now, schools ‘over-involved’ time to chat these through is stellar mental health lead is not sufficient will be amazed that supervision There is a danger for schools and and affordable training, which as all staff have to be trained in wasn’t automatically part of the well-intentioned teachers to get can help bring on even the least spotting mental health concerns package for those with the privilege over-involved in dealing with mental confident. An effective welfare as part of their safeguarding and of supporting young people with health issues at school, without the officer will help to siphon off pastoral training; not easy on the mental health concerns. As a sector proper training or support. Most the acute cases and will naturally first day of the academic year or we should have faith in this kind heads today will have certainly seen provide staff with much needed your teaching career, which will be of investment as it will deliver the both extremes, whether that is a support. the case for some. greatest rewards long term.

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 5 Bedford School has become one of the Powering Pupil first in the country to trial a range of recipes designed to improve academic Performance and sporting prowess. Is there any merit to a menu overhaul in terms of pupils’ through diet performance... “This is going to help my body The pilot – which has now been During the past 20 years there studies linking specific foods to recover after sprint training,” in place for two months – has have been great developments in academic prowess, sporting ability, says Ryan Apps as he wolfs down been highly praised by the school’s the scientific understanding of the concentration and energy levels. role of nutrition. a bowl of overnight oats and catering manager William Hackett. Focus meals - beneficial during reaches for a smoothie. “All our boys – particularly those So much so that the diets of our exam periods - include ingredients “I’ve tried a range of different in our Sports Performance Group elite athletes have been extensively designed to sharpen the mind such dishes in the last few weeks and – already learn about the benefits scrutinised. as quinoa while strengthen meals I think they have made a huge of eating certain proteins and Triple Olympic medallist Mo Farah are designed to fortify and include impact on my ability to push complex carbohydrates on their for example, explained that to get high protein ingredients like tuna, eggs and chicken which are key for myself harder and faster. I feel ability to strengthen their bodies the best out of a race, he spaces muscle development. more energetic and focused. It’s or aid muscle recovery,” he said. out small meals throughout the been a tangible lesson in what “This has formed an extension day consisting of pasta, chicken, Sustain meals are designed to nutrition can actually do in terms of that allowing them to put the rice, tuna and salad. energise and include ingredients of performance.” theory into practice. Meanwhile, England manager such as spinach which is high in Gareth Southgate insists that iron while recovery meals will be The 18-year-old, an award- “We are noticing that many boys during a match his players snack high in vitamins and minerals such winning athlete who came third are opting for the special menu on beef jerky, a high-quality as magnesium. in the East of England for the choices and are informing us that protein that provides the body Sam Baldock, 100m last year, is among dozens they feel differently as a result.” with essential amino acids. Deputy Head of boys exploring this issue thanks But while the move has been Academic to Bedford School’s new Powering hailed a huge success by boys and Nino Severino, former British Number One and Olympic tennis at Bedford Performance meals, part of a pilot teachers at the school, how big a coach, said nutrition “impacts School, programme created by culinary role does food actually have on everything from a player’s (pictured) said: team Independents by Sodexo. our mental and physical capacity? endurance levels and speed to their “We are proud recovery and sleep patterns.” to be a school that brings out the very best in “Every athlete strives for an edge Flavour of Japan our boys - whatever their talents, over the competition,” he added. skills and capabilities – as well as “That edge usually comes in the a school that leads the way on form of what is served to them new initiatives to boost our boys’ on a plate. The same can be said performance. of mental capacity. Food is fuel at the end of the day and what “Making positive food choices is a Bedford School has introduced key component of success in the is game changing for the boys in classroom, concert hall, stage or their care.” sports field – so we are thrilled to be trialling this exciting concept. Bedford School’s Powering Performance menu draws on “We really hope to inspire other scientific research and extensive schools to follow in our footsteps.” Pupils from Ashville Prep School, pupils) explained the origin of Yorkshire, have experienced a taste sushi before taking his audience of the Far East during a masterclass through a step by step process of Unique lunch scheme praised in the art of sushi making. how to make a perfect dish. Two Pupils and 23 students have had lunch with teachers from The Year 6 boys and girls - who of the keys to creating Sushi, that representatives from charities such Beech Grove as Save the Children, as well as are undertaking a “Healthy Me” wouldn’t look out of place in a top high street chain, is a Sushi mat School, Kent, lawyers, architects and employees of project – swapped pens for have been praised and the all-important rice. the political think tank The Centre chopsticks during a Sushi making by Ofsted for for Social Justice. demonstration by Ashville’s The ingredients Neil used for his their innovative extra-curricular programme titled “Navigating our The school’s head, Tim Maas, Executive Chef Neil Longthorn. dishes were: Sushi rice, finely World”. Alongside learning about pictured, said: “With the support chopped vegetables, including ‘Sushi’, which means sour in personal finance, online safety and of parents and others in the local carrots, tuna and prawns. Japanese and refers back to the how to apply to university, sixth community, the programme has form students are given the unique food’s origins of being preserved in Simon Asker, Director of Ashville helped us to equip our students opportunity to go out to lunch salt - is a combination of rice and Prep School, said: “The ‘Healthy Me’ with the skills and confidence to a variety of ingredients including with leading figures in business, communicate more effectively with project is aimed at introducing our enterprise and the charity sectors. people from various sectors, while vegetables and seafood, tightly pupils to a variety of different foods Since “Navigating our World” exposing them to a variety of career wrapped in seaweed. that are nutritional and a welcome was piloted in September 2019, choices.” Chef Neil (pictured above with alternative to unhealthy options”.

6 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] “Difficulty and even the possibility of failure, are pre-requisites for effective learning” Grit or Grades? History is littered with stories from hugely successful people who have developed a resilience to cope with initial failure. Mark Zacharias considers what today’s students and staff can learn from such examples... Regarded by most as the NBA’s incredibly powerful and fast- in the digital age. Two of the the starting point: it is what we greatest all-time player, Michael acting drug,” Damour says. “They most desired character traits were do with our talents, and how Jordan won six titles with the [young people] will be relieved ‘resilience’ and ‘initiative’, but the we develop them, that makes Chicago Bulls, and despite ending in the medium term, but they report shows that the gap between the difference. As Angela Lee his playing career over 15 years will be robbed of the feeling that what employers want and what Duckworth, the psychologist who ago, has a current estimated net they could have managed the they believe they actually get is led the research, put it: “The thing worth of over $2 billion. Perhaps situation.” huge. The Guardian recently noted that was revelatory to me was not that three-quarters of human somewhat perversely, he is also a Put simply, I would argue that we that effort matters — everybody resources professionals are now vocal advocate for the power of all – by which I mean teaching knows that effort matters. What failure, famously asserting that: using psychometric tests of skills, staff, school leadership, our was revelatory to me was how “I’ve missed more than 9000 shots character and potential rather than students, their parents, inspectors, much it matters.” (Incidentally, in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 just scrutinising CVs; indeed, the and the government themselves – her TED talk on ‘Grit: The Power games. 26 times, I’ve been trusted Institute of Student Employers need to be better at recognising of Passion and Perseverance has to take the game winning shot says almost a fifth of its members that grit matters as much as nearly 20 million views and is well and missed. I’ve failed over and are testing strengths and attitudes grades, and that difficulty and worth watching.) The problem, over and over again in my life. And even the possibility of failure, are only, not achievements. But school however, is this: any student who that is why I succeed.” prerequisites for effective learning. students can too readily become nervous about being judged – is prepared to delve into the murky Take James Dyson, for example, In the world of education, where which is perhaps unsurprising, world of uncertainty and take risks and his acclaimed invention – the ‘success’ can too often be defined given what they perceive to be has to then accept the possibility dual cyclone vacuum cleaner. In an by the letters or numbers that are at stake. Teachers of discursive that things might go wrong – that interview with The Times, Dyson awarded at the end of courses, subjects will attest to the problem they might well make mistakes revealed that it had taken 5,126 risk (and its necessary bedfellow, of teaching children who will and, heaven forbid, ‘be wrong’. prototypes to create a working failure) is to be avoided at all cost. persistently avoid answering And yet such failures would device. He told the journalist As The Atlantic reported in 2014, questions in case they get things not be reasons to give up; they that, “this was my advantage. I the grading system with which we wrong, or who don’t like to admit should instead be embraced as had the resilience to keep going are so familiar can “undermine they don’t understand something opportunities to learn, to improve when others might have given learning and creativity, reward because they are afraid they might and ultimately, to succeed. up. In fact, I wanted to fail fast, cheating, damage students’ peer look ‘silly’. Instead of realising that the quicker to learn. Failure is relationships and trust in their asking questions is the only way The final words here go again to indispensable to success.” teachers, encourage students to learn, they prefer to make no Matthew Syed, author of You Are to avoid challenging work, and So how do these anecdotes mistakes at all — and by doing so Awesome: Find Your Confidence teach students to value grades pertain to today’s students, make the greatest mistake of all. and Dare to be Brilliant at (Almost) desperate to do well but perhaps over knowledge.” Perhaps it is Anything, who has perfectly time to reappraise our values and Why is this such a concern? We fretting about what will happen summarised the point I am trying ask ourselves whether our current can probably all sense that the if they flop? Or to the well- to make. He says that, “lives are (and long-standing) approach pace of change around us is meaning parents who tell us that seldom destroyed by giving it a go quickening all the time. Children they don’t want their children to to education is actually fully face careers where they will and messing up; the silent killer be challenged as they ‘just want preparing our charges for the have an average of 15 jobs, the of aspiration is the inability to them to be happy’? Or to the world that lies beyond the walls of majority of which haven’t yet been even try. This is not to champion teachers who avoid discomforting the Endowed Schools. invented, and in such a world, the failing for the sake of it. It is not their pupils for fear that they will There is, sadly, a growing sense willingness to take risks and to be a philosophy of defeatism. On the only add to their anxiety? Our that students today are more resilient to the failures that are contrary, it is strategic failure, the instinct may be to protect our risk-averse than in the past. inevitable in life is surely crucial. surest pathway to growth. Children children from the things that are Researchers at Bath University who understand these truths are causing anxiety, but according have labelled this “the curse of A recently-published paper in the far more likely to feel liberated to Dr Lisa Damour, an American perfectionism”, and cite evidence Journal of Social Psychological clinical psychologist and author that shows it has been growing for and Personality Science asserted from anxiety and to embrace fresh specialising in the development of more than a decade. The Times that tenacity — a willingness challenges. We may have different teenage girls and young women, Higher Education Global University to practise weaknesses and talents, different passions, this would be a grave mistake on Employability Ranking 2017 persevere when confronted by different approaches to life. But our part. “Dodging a perceived published the ‘wish list’ of leading challenges — was, remarkably, a the thing that most often holds us threat actually feels good — in recruiters in terms of the skills that better predictor of success than back is not a deficit of ability, but fact, avoidance works like an graduates would need to succeed IQ. Talent, it would seem, is only our own, self-limiting beliefs.” Pictured: Mark Zacharias is Head of English, and Head of Seniors Scholars & Oxbridge Applications, at Stamford High School, Lincolnshire

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 7 Pupils become pen-pals with elderly alumni Loneliness is one of the major issues faced by the elderly in today’s society. Pupils from the Royal Hospital School (RHS) in Suffolk decided to do something about this and have become pen-pals to scores of elderly people who are all former pupils...

Traditionally, inspiration to the pupils. Thanks with anecdotes about their Andy Redwood, Vice President of boarding school to this visit, the Letter’s Home schooldays and accompanied by the Alumni Association which has pupils used to Scheme was created, and pupils of much-cherished photographs. championed the scheme: “Many of the elderly alumni of the Royal write letters home all ages began writing to alumni We also learnt facts about RHS Hospital School have a great affection to their family on milestone birthdays from 80 that would have otherwise gone for their old School but often poor every Sunday upwards. undocumented”. health, distance or issues prevent before the days of emails and It was the response from the them from being able to connect. It mobiles put paid to this method of The pupils started writing regularly is nice to see this initiative, not only alumni that surprised everyone, as communication. Following a visit and soon an amazing pen-pal working but bringing a little bit of RHS Headmaster Simon Lockyer to a 90-year-old former student, scheme was created. The pupils also joy into people’s lives. A big thank (pictured left) explains: RHS realised encouraging him to make Christmas cards and special you to the pupils – the School may have changed over the years but the gifts to send to the older alumni reminisce about his school days had “We began receiving back these ethos and ‘be bothered’ good manners given him a huge boost as well as lovely handwritten letters from who claim the pupils’ letters have continue”. a genuine source of interest and our alumni. They were filled given them a new lease of life. Q&A with RHS’s Sara Stewart about the Pen Pals scheme: Q. Do pupils volunteer for this? A. Pupils focus initially on birthday have found that the majority former pupils on milestone A. Service to others and the wishes and presents. When alumni of alumni proactively enter into birthdays. This term they will reach community is part and parcel of write back, House Staff work with correspondence after receiving a out to more than 30 former pupils. what it means to be an RHS pupil. the Head of House and other pupils card. In effect, it is they who are Q. Is there a member of staff Pupils take a proactive interest in to send a response. sending ‘letters home’ to their old School. who champions the scheme? these types of activities. Letters Q. How do you find the alumni Home has special resonance as who might like such contact? Q. When did the LHS start; how A. All of our eleven Houses participate and the House Staff pupils take great pride in their A. Our alumni office and our many writers and recipients are Houses – as do the alumni that alumni association maintain an now involved. have been enthusiastic as it went before them. alumni database with a report A. Letters Home was initiated provides some wonderful insights Q. Does anyone check out what notifying us of 80, 90 and 100 in October with pupils initially into how the house has changed they are saying? birthdays of living alumni. We writing to around 20 elderly but some continuing themes.

How alumni responded: “I would like to thank years 8 Vincent House 1944). Gordon to 12 for their kind greetings. passed away in November. It is a lovely tribute from them, Gordon joined the Fleet Air Arm, which is very much appreciated” a career culminating in an OBE Barry Dunmow (Collingwood for services to the aeronautical House 1945). Barry joined HMS industry and becoming President Vanguard at the age of 16 on the of the Royal Aeronautical Society. Royal Tour to South Africa with George VI, the Queen Mum, and “It was a great gesture and accompanied the two princesses. certainly made my birthday that “Thank you. Thank you. Thank little bit more special. When the you. I could have never have weather improves I may come imagined such a thoughtful down and visit the School I left response from your staff and nearly 65 years ago” Geoffrey students. It stimulated a great Hay (Cornwallis House 1956). conversation and evoked many good memories of the School “My wife and I hope that the and Gordon’s career. It has grounding at the School will help been a long time since we have you all find your chosen path seen him smile”. The widow of in the future” Peter Markham Gordon McCoombe OBE (St. (Cornwallis House 1951).

8 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Showcase school Rudi takes the helm Giggleswick School, Yorkshire, has The Independent Schools Schools Council, where he was been named a Microsoft Showcase Association has announced Deputy General Secretary and School – one of just 18 schools the appointment of Rudi Eliott ran the research department. in the UK and 241 worldwide to Lockhart to the position of Chief He has undertaken research Executive Officer. Rudi joins in at Cambridge University in be chosen for the accolade by the August 2020, before taking over medieval history and at the UCL global digital giant. as CEO in September. Institute of Education on the role of religion in independent The school earned the listing Rudi has been the Chief schools with a particular focus thanks to its use of technology in Executive of the Religious on the experience of Jewish Education Council of England transforming the way it teaches pupils in the 1960s and 1970s. and changing its culture of and Wales (REC) since 2015. Previously he spent seven Current CEO Neil Roskilly is learning. years at the Independent retiring. Said John Hamilton, director of digital strategy at Giggleswick (pictured): “Our use of Microsoft Co-ed transition Teams as an online homework discussions and networking, plus Kent College Preparatory School in There will be no boys in any other diary and general planner has ‘how to’ advice, blogs and other Pembury is to accept boys into its year groups. Nursery from September this year, earned us our place on the resources. as part of a gradual transition for In September 2022, as boys scheme. In addition, we run a He said: “We share what we do the Prep School to become fully transition from Reception to Year policy of one-to-one devices, and learn from others. I have also co-educational by September 2027. 1, subject to places being available, the Prep School will accept where everyone from year six become a Microsoft Innovation The Prep School is currently all-girls applications from new boys into upwards has a laptop, iPad or Educator Expert where I share from 3 to 11 years. Year 1 as well as Reception and other device. We are continuing best practice online and in person In September 2020 boys will be Nursery. There will be no boys in to develop the use of technology with other schools. able to join the Nursery in the term any other year groups. to support learning and school they turn 3. “Giggleswick embraces digital This will continue year by year until life.” technology to ensure the best From September 2021 boys in the school is a fully co-educational Nursery will be able to move into As a Microsoft Showcase School, possible outcomes for its prep school in September 2027. Reception and, subject to places Giggleswick has access to a students and we are delighted being available, the Prep School will Kent College Senior School (for global community of teachers. and proud that Microsoft has accept applications from new boys girls 11-18) will remain an all-girls Mr Hamilton takes part in regular recognised this.” into Reception, as well as Nursery. school.

Gold Standard Testing for InternationalGold Standard Pupil TestingAdmissions for Independent Schools We are Password We are Global Providers of world-leading online English language and To date, our user-friendly tests have been taken by Maths assessments designed specifically with international students in more than 120 countries worldwide. learners in mind. Administrated under each school’s own brand, securely Password tests are used by over 250 schools, colleges and delivered by their trusted representatives or at British Council universities in the UK, either to assist with admissions offices overseas, Password tests are reliable, valid and decisions or for class setting on arrival. internationally aligned. We are Partners We are Growing We believe that consultation and communication with our Our reputation is growing fast, thanks to excellent feedback partner institutions should lie at the heart of each and every and recommendations from our partner institutions. test development or platform enhancement. We are recognised and valued for our expertise not just in Our partners include everyone from TES Award winners to language assessment and software development, but also Tatler top-listed schools, from cosmopolitan sixth form extensive shared experience in university and school colleges to rural boarding schools. leadership.

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Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Standard half page Ad Feb 2020.indd 1 Independent Schools05/02/2020 Magazine 15:27 9 Changes to laws on residential lettings are catching out schools with staff accommodation

Pictured: Hannah Seton is associate director at Savills, [email protected] / 01865 269 165

Many independent schools are landlords to staff or third parties who occupy free or subsidised housing. However, the case of one school -which was caught out not once but twice due to regulatory changes – has highlighted that some aren’t aware of their responsibilities. A report by Hannah Seton of Savills...

There are two areas of legislation notice by its LA for letting a (if applicable), and the EPC. The therefore worthwhile reviewing if which may be hard to navigate: property on an EPC F rating, guide tells tenants that if their any of your tenancy agreements changes to laws governing with the school given one tenancy started or was renewed carry fees that now contravene tenancy agreements and energy month to respond supplying the after 1 October 2015 they can’t the law. performance. information requested. Failure be evicted via a Section 21 To abide with the Smoke and First are changes to Energy to respond would have incurred notice (a no fault eviction) if Carbon Monoxide (England) Performance Certificates (EPCs) a fine and, if then found to be these documents haven’t been Regulations 2015 landlords must under Minimum Energy Efficiency in breach of the regulations, a provided. If you think you may install at least one smoke alarm Standards (MEES), part of the penalty of £2,000 plus costs. need to gain possession of a on every storey of their properties Energy Act 2011. Luckily, the school got advice, property it’s therefore imperative and carbon monoxide alarms in and we found that staff occupied that tenants have the correct Local Authorities (LAs) are any room containing a solid fuel the property under a Service documentation. responsible for enforcing burning appliance and check they Occupancy licence as part of compliance with MEES and Since 1 February 2016 all private work on the first day of each their employment. As Service can impose penalties. This is a landlords must check that new new tenancy. Given the potential Occupancies are excluded from potential source of income to residential tenants aged 18+ threat to life it’s crucial that MEES the LA withdrew. But this them, but some are more aware have the right to be in and reside these checks are carried out but was a wake-up call: a review of the regulations than others. in the UK before renting their – if that weren’t enough – any found several school properties We know of cases where failure property under the Immigration breach carries a maximum fine of let on Annual Assured Shorthold to comply has been used as a Act 2016. If you’ve agreed any £5,000. Tenancies (which are included in way of carrying out a property tenancies since then it’s best to During our work with the same the legislation) that were non- inspection under the Housing review if checks were carried out. school mentioned above, we compliant. The school has now Health and Safety Rating System If tenants are employed directly found they were using an old rectified this. in the Housing Act 2004, by your school it’s likely that AST template, which breached followed by notices being served Do you let any properties on you already have copies of their the Tenant Fees Act, and weren’t to undertake work, or face Assured Shorthold Tenancies documentation, but it’s worth aware of their duties under the further financial penalties. (AST) using a template tenancy double-checking. Deregulation or Immigration agreement that’s a few years old? Unless explicitly exempt under Under the Tenant fees Act Acts. Understandably, their main If so, the law’s changed a lot the rules, from 1 April 2018 2019, landlords and agents focus is education and they recently. any property rented out on a are prohibited from charging simply weren’t conscious of the qualifying tenancy, including new Under the Deregulation Act, tenants any fees other than those regulatory changes. lets and renewals, must have had landlords must issue all tenants ‘permitted’ by the Act on new Residential tenancies may not be a minimum EPC rating of E. But granted an AST with the current tenancies signed after 1 June part of your everyday work, but from 1 April this year the law also How to Rent Guide. This 2019; this largely bans most the consequences of falling foul applies to all tenancies let since notifies tenants what to expect letting fees and caps tenancy of legislation are high, with the 1 October 2008, with penalties of throughout their tenancy and deposits. Breaches can result in financial penalties, not being able up to £5,000 per property. the documentation they must £5,000 fines, rising to £30,000 to gain possession of properties We know an independent school receive, including a gas safety for multiple breaches and when required, and reputational that was served a compliance certificate and deposit paperwork possible criminal prosecution. It’s harm, potentially very damaging.

This article is for guidance only. Full details should always be checked and the appropriate advice sought where required. Legislation is different in some cases for Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland.

10 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Teaching & Learning Conference open to all What is learning? What does the research tell us?

Flying fundraising start The Froebelian School, Yorkshire, – with individual and group efforts has begun the academic year from pupils, staff, parents, friends raising an unprecedented amount and the PTA - we are on target for for their designated charity for a record breaking year.” the year. Vickie Bowden, West Yorkshire The Preparatory School has come Regional Fundraiser, from Yorkshire together as a community to Air Ambulance said: “The charity raise over £2300 for Yorkshire Air relies on donations to ensure we Ambulance in just five months. can continue to save lives across Following the successful events Should staff be teaching or With future events in the offing, the region and make a difference of previous years, Haberdashers’ facilitating, sticking to the offering a number of opportunities to someone who needs our help. Aske’s School for Girls, specification or going off topic, to raise even more money, they are With a running cost of around Hertfordshire, is running its fourth supporting or challenging? off to a ‘flying start’. £12,000 per day, we are incredibly Teaching and Learning Conference grateful to each and everyone at on March 28th. The event is open Listening to a teacher, looking Headteacher Catherine Dodds said: The Froebelian School for making to independent school staff from at images on a board, referring “I am overwhelmed by how the across the country. to an article and taking notes Froebelian family has embraced the such a magnificent start to their simultaneously - is that cognitive fundraising for the charity this year fundraising year. Amongst the questions which will overload or best practice? be addressed: What about what comes first; Should students be asked to work in groups or alone? One knowledge or skill, planning or results in possible social loafing marking, mistakes or resilience? and the other in a lack of mental The conference will provide the beverleybellconsulting.com stimulation. opportunity to hear from a variety Email : [email protected] Should students be teaching each of internationally renowned Phone : 07985 700017 other? What if they misunderstand speakers, discuss some these and the topic and mis-teach it? other questions, and assist staff What about direct instruction, to draw their own conclusions does it allow neural pathways about what is best for pupils. Services: to develop as much as active There isn’t a one size fits all Beverley’s consultancy service provides bespoke strategic, compliance, learning does? approach to education! governance and corporate reviews within the commercial vehicle industry and schools and charity sectors. With her extensive experience as the former regulator, reputation for plain speaking, ability to get to Tickets cost £35 and include a welcome breakfast, the core of any problem quickly, dry sense of humour and fiendish eye refreshments and a hot lunch for detail she will advise you and your organisation how to: Venue: • Ensure compliance with the ‘Section 19 permit regime’

Haberdashers’ Aske’s School for Girls • Apply for a PSV operator licence if necessary Aldenham Road Elstree, WD6 3BT • Ensure your drivers are compliant with the relevant legislation Arrival and breakfast: 8.30-9.20am • Review and audit your current compliance arrangements

Welcome and Keynote: 9.30am • Ensure effective and efficient governance and corporate arrangements

Finish: 3.30pm • Provide bespoke transport HR support, advice and compliance For all enquiries please contact: • Maximise individual compliance knowledge, through targeted training Megan Hall, Assistant Head (Teaching & Learning): [email protected] or 020 8266 2308 Best Practice and Compliance Schools and Charity Work Bespoke Training For bookings please visit: Governance & Corporate Arrangements Strategic Development https://www.trybooking.com/uk/book/event?eid=8534

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 11 Unique Sixth Learning ‘LIFE SKILLS’ with Form programme Strathallan School, Perthshire has the Junior Duke Award unveiled a unique triple pathway An award scheme pioneered by a Now the Junior School at programme for Sixth Form pupils teacher has ‘come home’ to the Gordonstoun has announced that designed to provide choice and school which inspired it. it will adopt the scheme, offering flexibility in the face of a diverse Junior Duke Awards to children range of tertiary education and The Junior Duke Awards are employment options after school. in Years 5 and 6 (P5-6). Those the brainchild of a teacher from With the addition of One-year taking part must complete a series Glasgow who felt that there Highers to Sixth Form curriculum of challenges including confident should be a junior version of the options, the school will become swimming, learning how to budget, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award to the first in Scotland to offer such learning to cook dinner or baking encourage primary-aged children a wide range of options. The bread, fixing a puncture, planning One-Year Highers will be added to learn life skills. a trip, demonstrating computer to the Sixth Form offering from The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award skills, music or drama performances September 2020 and will run was inspired by HRH The Duke and caring for others. alongside the current A-Level and of Edinburgh, Prince Philip’s Two-Year Higher options. Welcoming the development, 10-year-old Alex makes a casserole experiences at Gordonstoun School the inventor of the Junior Duke With 24 subjects to choose from, in Moray where he undertook a The Head of Gordonstoun’s Junior this means Strathallan will offer Awards, Dawn Waugh from series of challenges in order to School, Josh Holtby, said: “Our one of the broadest curriculums Hutchesons’ Grammar School said: win a ‘Moray Badge’. Hundreds of children have already begun their available in Scotland, as well as “The Duke of Edinburgh Awards thousands of children all over the Gold and Platinum Junior Duke the opportunity for pupils to are based on challenges pioneered world have followed in his footsteps Awards and are really enjoying tailor their programme to their by Gordonstoun so it is lovely to strengths, interests, and future through the Duke of Edinburgh doing new things. I can see their see that my junior version of the study or career goals. In response programme and undertaken awards has been taken up by the independence and confidence to pupil demand, a selected confidence-boosting challenges. school where the idea began. Since growing, and we are delighted number of subjects will also be The Junior Duke Awards are I began Junior Duke Awards in to support an award programme made available for Advanced based on the same principles 2006, thousands of children have which encourages more children Higher from 2021, offering Strathallan pupils breadth, and encourage younger children learned new skills such as planning to benefit from the educational choice and flexibility, as well as to try new experiences, develop trips, cooking, performing and approach of Gordonstoun which a clear route to selective Scottish focuses on developing skills for life, independence and become more caring for other people. I hope this University courses. confident. will inspire more schools to join in!” not just for exams.” http://juniorduke.com A Royal Duke of Edinburgh’s Award visit Writing Retreat A spectacular Writing Retreat HRH The Earl of Wessex spent During his visit, The Earl met with Experience List: 25 of the best took place at Wellington School, time with young people, teachers young people currently doing character hacks for teens, a Somerset. and volunteers from across Kent their DofE. They demonstrated checklist of 25 experiences that Over 90 children from 24 schools who are involved in The Duke of skills including CPR, First Aid can build teenagers’ confidence, around the region turned out Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) during and Orienteering, all designed independence and resilience, for a morning of workshops and a visit to Cobham Hall, Kent. The to highlight the Physical and supporting their positive mental rehearsals, before performing a selection of their own visit was planned to thank local Expedition sections of the DofE. health and wellbeing and standing compositions! schools and organisations who run The Earl spoke with each of them in good stead for success the DofE for their young people the representatives from the in the workplace and beyond. To Throughout the morning, the children worked with professional and showcase how doing the schools on site, having been build the list, the DofE surveyed writers and editors from the more than 4,000 people including DofE could benefit more young welcomed by Cobham Hall’s publishing industry and the people, schools, business and youth youngest pupils waving Union members of the public, business Golden Egg Academy. Each child organisations in the area who are Flags. The visit follows on leaders, education professionals, was given individual time to work not yet involved. from the recent launch of The parents and young people. Many on their writing and these experts of the experiences and activities explained how the publishing that appear on the List can be industry works. They also had a live skype session with the author done as part of the DofE. of the successful Brightstorm and Maggie Roberts, Headmistress Wildspark, Vashti Hardy (recently at Cobham Hall said, “We would shortlisted for the Blue Peter Book of the Year award). like to thank The Earl for his visit to Cobham Hall. The DofE is an “There was a tremendous integral part of life at the School atmosphere of excitement and anticipation, as children created due to the vital skills it develops, a story plan.” commented Aaron such as perseverance and resilience, Warren, Wellington Prep School’s which are skills required for a literary guru. successful future.”

12 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Unique Sixth Form programme

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6478 A4 Advert Artwork_Final.indd 2 27/09/2018 12:10 Workplace pensions. Why it’s important to shop around.

Royal London, the UK’s largest mutual life, pensions and investment company, outlines the key areas to consider when reviewing your workplace pension options, and why an off-the-shelf workplace pension might not be the best solution for your school.

When it comes to financial services is owned by their members and provided. For example, will the to change pension provider or products, it’s important to shop reinvests profits back into the provider offer dedicated ongoing set up a new plan. Other pension around. And it’s just the same when organisation, to the benefit of support to help you move schemes are set up so that the you’re choosing a new workplace their customers. pension schemes, and manage it member’s plan is ‘portable’, pension. longer term? • If their default investment allowing them to continue Although off-the-shelf workplace option suits the profile of your • If you want to offer the contributing to their plan even pensions are readily available, it’s staff. In our experience, most alternative pension scheme to all if they leave your school or leave worthwhile considering if they really members of a workplace pension your staff. You may decide this is teaching altogether. offer the best solution. will invest their contributions in the right time to also review your There’s no doubt that shopping current pension scheme for your If you’re thinking of offering an the scheme’s default option. So around will help you find the best non-teaching staff. If you move alternative to the Teachers’ Pension it’s important it can adapt to the solution for your school. Genuine both teaching and non-teaching Scheme (TPS), you’ll normally need demographics and life stages of consultation with your impacted staff to the same scheme, you to go through a consultation process your teaching staff. teaching staff will be key to could benefit from a reduced level first, and this is a great time to find • The charges your teachers will demonstrating your commitment of administrative work and access out what your teaching staff would pay. All pension providers charge to this. to lower scheme management like and the option(s) that would for managing a scheme or plan charges. William Johnson, Managing Director suit them best. This could include and it’s important to understand at The Ink Group has been active finding out or reviewing how many what’s included in these charges. Some providers may charge you in this space, and believes “Any teachers: An off-the-shelf solution may extra to add non-teaching staff to organisation selecting a workplace your scheme. • have opted out of TPS and why not offer the best value for pension for their employees has a money and may have charges • are paying extra contributions to • If the pension provider can offer duty of care to review the whole that reflect the profile of teachers TPS marketing and communication of the market to ensure that the at other schools. materials tailored to your best possible option is chosen. • earn less than the primary school’s branding. Your This is even more important for threshold for National Insurance • The pension provider’s contributions to your teaching independent schools given the Contributions responsible investment policy. Attitudes towards responsible staff’s pensions are a valuable significance of the shift away from • aren’t earning a taxable income investment are changing. A part of their benefits package. If the TPS.” you do decide to exit TPS, they And if they feel strongly about growing number of pensions We always recommend talking to a will continue to be a significant having a pension with a provider customers, particularly professional financial adviser about investment in your employees’ who: millennials, believe it’s important the different types of workplace future financial wellbeing. You for their pension provider to have • is socially responsible set the employer and employee pensions available to you. They can a strong responsible investment • offers easy online access to the contribution levels and could provide an impartial view of the policy. If your employees feel plan via a website or mobile app choose to continue contributing options available and the pros and strongly about this you should at a rate which is higher than the cons of each. And most importantly, • lets them carry on contributing if check if the pension provider’s average levels typically paid in the they’ll give you personalised they decide to leave teaching policy, and the breadth of their private sector. Bespoke branding advice and recommendations All this provides great insight into responsible and sustainable fund of member communications tailored to your school’s needs and what’s affordable for them, and ranges, are aligned with what can help increase employee circumstances. whether having a scheme that uses matters to your staff. engagement and ensure they If you don’t already have an adviser relief at source or a salary sacrifice • How flexible the scheme is. If value your investment. you can find one in your area by model is also beneficial. any teachers want to make their • If your staff will be able to visiting unbiased.co.uk. You’ll need to consider: own investment choices, you’ll continue contributing to want to ensure your scheme offers • Who you want to run your their new pension plan if a wide range of options to suit workplace pension scheme? You they change employers. Some their preferences, their attitude to can choose to go with a public pension schemes are set up risk and term to retirement. limited company (PLC) who is so that members can only owned by their shareholders and • Support for you. When contribute to their plan under pays dividends, or you can choose comparing costs, consider the their current employer. If the a mutual organisation. A mutual ongoing services that will be employee leaves, they then have

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14 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Workplace pensions that really stack up

Our award winning pensions are built to fit around your schools’ needs. With flexible contribution levels, carefully crafted investments and a range of retirement options, we’re confident we’ll stack up against your expectations.

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February 2020 ADVPP10005 Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 15

ADVPP10005 - Independent School - A4.indd 1 24/02/2020 15:51:04 Eco awareness Wildlife Trust ‘Grand Ideas’ Win Ratcliffe College Year 13 student of the Leicestershire and Rutland Robyn Warwick has been successful Community Foundation and #Iwill with her entry in the Leicestershire Fund – proudly supporting youth and Rutland Wildlife Trust, ‘Grand social action. Ideas’ competition, winning £1000 for the school. The money Ratcliffe College’s mean green will be used to help implement Eco Team continue their bid to Climate change front and centre Robyn’s idea which is, “to crack become an eco-school in 2020 Students from Durham School aware of what the problems are. We down on single use plastics and and achieve Green Flag status. A have been working on ideas need to inspire them to be part of create a culture where recycling whole College Eco Committee has around sustainability and the solution. environmental protection after is an everyday part of school been established, incorporating the “Bringing that wonder and becoming increasingly aware of, life.” Robyn’s idea also focuses Nursery, Preparatory and Senior excitement of being in an amazing and interested in the worldwide on helping the School cut down School. environment like the rain forest, movement encouraging everyone to on food waste which, globally or a coral reef – being able to Not only this, but Ratcliffe College play their part in saving the planet. now accounts for 21% of all bring that back and share it… it’s had their bid accepted for trees landfill! Grand Ideas is a project A recent visit to the school by not necessarily about inspiring of the Leicestershire and Rutland from the Woodland Trust, 30 trees global environmental campaigner them to do what I do, but more Wildlife Trust, with the support will be planted this month (March). and communicator, Robin Clegg helping them to see that by being fuelled their passion for putting responsible human beings, they can Minibus firm plants 1500 trees the planet first, and reinforced their make a difference.” belief that committing to making Castle Minibus has agreed an project could be extended to During the development of the changes in our everyday lives can annual sum to plant and support further planting at the same site or sustainability plan, which will make a big difference. the planting of trees and ongoing at Blencathra in the Lake District. feed into a new school-wide maintenance of approx. 1500 Robin (pictured above at Durham) environmental policy, ideas from Chris Maynard, Managing Director the pupils have looked at many trees over the next three years in has spent the past 15 years working of Castle Minibus commented areas of school life, resulting in a partnership with the FSC (Field with organisations including the ‘Whilst we can’t accurately calculate wide variety of proposals around Studies Council). World Wildlife Fund and The Ocean the carbon emissions from the Race, raising awareness of the food, energy, transport, recycling, The immediate plan is to fund business or the vehicles we rent, threats to the environment and waste and tree-planting – as well as three seasons, planting around lease and sell we can make a bio-diversity. encouraging of using local produce 500 trees per year and subsequent contribution to offset our carbon and suppliers wherever possible. He said: “It’s essential that people maintenance, at the FSC’s Preston footprint. I am very pleased to Dr Christine Scott-Warburton, who’ve experienced conservation Montford site in Shropshire. Once be able to fund the planting and Head of Geography at Durham efforts and been to some of these planted the Field Studies Council maintenance of these 1500 trees School, said: “The pupil-led plan places impart their experiences and will assume ‘ownership’ of the with the FSC who will not only has come about from the pupils’ knowledge to the next generation. trees and will manage the resultant oversee the initial planting but the conversations in geography woodland sustainably. After the maintenance and growing success “They are our future leaders, who lessons as we cover sustainability initial three years the planting of our block in Shropshire.’ we need to educate and make concepts.” Animated protest during schools’ Eco Day Hertfordshire’s Edge Grove School seriously and the event, which also Headmaster Ben Evans said: “Our management but crucially, what has hosted a special ‘Eco Day’ in saw pupils lead a peaceful protest, Eco Day was a huge success and steps they could take to make a collaboration with WWF, Tesco was attended by the whole school. certainly gave all of us some food difference. and TerraCycle, as part of its for thought in terms of how we continued drive and commitment The focus for the day was ‘Waste’ can make a difference to the world The school is already a hub for to reduce, reuse and recycle waste. and every year group took part in around us. We were incredibly collection of hard to recycle plastics, As a member of the Eco-Schools a wide array of activities to learn fortunate to have representatives such as crisp packets and pet food programme, the school takes its more about reducing and reusing from WWF and Tesco in pouches and representatives from environmental role extremely waste. attendance, both of whom delivered TerraCycle explained why this was engaging presentations on the so important and how the recycling challenges they face today and their business model works. They showed commitment and drive towards improved sustainability.” pupils the finished products, such as the colourful, school benches Tesco and WWF talked about the currently found on Edge Grove’s issues associated with waste and front lawn. Pupils also had the the difficulties in balancing food waste, food miles and packaging. chance to follow up the points The pupils not only left with a raised in the talk and to participate new found understanding of in discussion groups back in their the complexity of environmental classrooms.

16 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Safer recruitment. Recruiting safely. What exactly does that mean? A report by Kay Joel, senior and be confident that you’re doing there are details that have to be in Education online training, consultant for education, everything you can to safeguard included but by personalising these, we work with schools and other and Donya Pourzand, senior the children and young people in using your school’s language and organisations across the UK on a consultant, NSPCC your care. reflecting your culture, you stand consultancy basis to help them the best chance of attracting the apply these advanced interviewing It’s never been more important So, how can you recruit and retain people most suited to your school. skills. This helps them explore a that we recruit and retain the best the very best people for your candidate’s awareness, behaviour, people in our schools. You need school and ensure you’re keeping 3. Use value based attitude and motivation in relation staff and volunteers who champion children safe? interviewing techniques to safeguarding children. your school’s culture and values Once you’ve attracted some great 1. Prepare well and are committed to protecting, candidates for your role, you need 4. Involve candidates “If you fail to prepare, you prepare supporting and developing children to use the interview process to in the process to fail”; this couldn’t be more and young people. The statutory delve under the surface. We’ve Recruitment is a two-way process. true of recruitment. Planning guidance for schools highlights the developed a value based interview While you need to attract the responsibility of a school to ensure effectively gives you a blueprint technique focused on safeguarding best candidates, they need to you have safer recruitment policies for the rest of the process. that covers four key behaviours: be sure this is the right job for and procedures in place. But, as the Clearly defining the role and them. And while schools obviously • Establishing and maintaining schools we work with tell us, while responsibilities not only helps you have a responsibility to ensure professional boundaries and the guidance tells you what to do, create the job advert, but provides safeguarding is at the heart of that professional integrity it doesn’t tell you how to do it. the basis for assessment criteria recruitment process, candidates shortlisting, interviewing, vetting • Establishing and maintaining also need to play their part. That’s why our specialist child and the probationary period. relationships with children So make sure you’re clear on protection and HR safeguarding what you expect and give them experts developed our Safer 2. Think carefully about • Taking action to protect a child direction in the process. Ensure Recruitment in Education online the language you use they understand what’s required • Demonstrating resilience and training course to help those A safeguarding statement and in your checks – including vetting ability to cope with pressure. responsible for recruitment to put overview of your school is essential and barring checks, overseas in place a safer recruitment process for any school job advert. Of course, As well as our Safer Recruitment checks and references. If you want to learn more about this complex subject, take our Safer Recruitment in Education online training: visit www.nspcc.org.uk/sredu Or get in touch with our specialist consultants: www.nspcc.org.uk/consultancy

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 17 LEAP 2020: Leading the World in Female Entrepreneurship In the summer of 2020 top female students from every corner of the globe will converge on Jersey to hone their business and leadership skills at Jersey College for Girls Foundation’s LEAP summer programme. In 2019 representatives from Jersey, Japan, Korea, China, Taiwan, Thailand, India, Egypt, Germany, UK, Bermuda and the USA made for a diverse and dynamic cultural mix. 2020 is shaping up to be even more diverse!

LEAP, standing for Leadership wild. Team building will follow Gott (Managing Director, Oak the quality of the presentation and Entrepreneurship Accelerator and the students will be all set for Group), Andrew McLaughlin (CEO, and business cases. I strongly Programme, is a 10 day programme the days ahead. RBSI), Susanna Rowles (Director, encourage any female student bringing together students and TargetInternet), Aaron Chatterley Sessions on marketing, financing, who is passionate about change, leaders from the community to communication and presentation (Founder, feelunique.com) and targeting a leadership position work together to solve the world’s skills, to name just a few will Simon Boas (Executive Director, for herself and inspired by the problems. Set around a Dragon’s JOA) acted as Dragons and ITV guide the students through the opportunity to work with students Den style competition the students Channel Television recording for business development process. from all over the world, to contact are taught business and leadership added stress! The students shone, Senior executives from HSBC, RBSI, me about joining the LEAP 2020 skills, guided through the ideation RBC, PwC, Durrell and many other with articulate and passionate Programme”. and development process and leading organizations will act as presentation of their ideas and inspired by entrepreneurial female trainers, mentors and guides. the winning team Ossze made an leaders from finance, charity and impact with their idea for linking As the days progress, the teams LEAP 2020 Details government. retired people with students will begin to gel, their ideas Location: to share expertise and reduce Working in truly international become more focused and their Jersey College for Girls, Jersey loneliness. teams, the students are challenged ability to articulate their ideas and Dates: to design a social enterprise plans in a business like fashion LEAP 2020 is gearing up to be as 27th July to 5th August 2020 business to target the United will form. successful a programme as in 2019 Participants: Nations sustainable development On the penultimate day students with students already signing up Years 10-13 goals. from around the world. will face six of the Island’s best Fees: The summer of 2020 will start business minds in a corporate Jersey is uniquely placed to offer £1750 per student with the students being instructed Boardroom with the top team a programme of this nature and (Including all activities, on what makes an impactful taking home up to £2,000 as the organiser Dr Peter Le Masurier accommodation and food) finale to Jersey College for Girls’ project by the Executive Director commented, “It is inspiring to see, www.jcg.je/leap LEAP programme. of Jersey Overseas Aid, Simon the ideas that students can create p.lemasurier@ Boas. The students will then be In 2019 Justine Wilkinson in such a short period of time, the jcgfoundation.com challenged to let their ideas run (Director, Fairway Group), Nicola international cooperation, and

Pictured: Some of the participants in 2019 LEAP

18 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 19 Focused eating disorder concept brings support to schools Schools and colleges now have a unique delivery option to help staff, parents and students better understand and support eating disorder issues. Not-for-profit organisation, Wednesday’s Child, has developed a comprehensive protocol, which guides school staff and the pupil community through awareness, prevention and intervention. As well as providing focused education about the mental health illness and its incidence in the academic arena, the package includes full recovery coaching support for students experiencing difficulties with, or early signs of, an eating disorder. It is believed as many as one in five schoolchildren will experience an eating disorder during their academic life, and the disease has Framlingham College school nurse Suzannah Tacon, deputy head a high onset incidence during adolescence in particular. (pastoral) Tom Caston and Wednesday’s Child founder Debbie Watson

The new approach has been listened to schools and to have and food psychology, and mental 16,558 the year before, and adopted by one independent developed a framework which can health provision.” 13,885 in 2016/2017. school which has for a long time be tailored for their needs. Framlingham College Deputy Ms Watson added: “Full statistics prided itself on its pastoral care “On the one hand, teachers and Head (Pastoral), Tom Caston, for the impact of eating disorders delivery. pastoral staff were saying how said “The wellbeing of a pupil in this country have always been Framlingham College, Suffolk, desperate they were for more is critical to them experiencing difficult to extract, particularly which has 650 students, is information and resources to a happier and more successful because we know a large number now utilising the Wednesday’s assist understanding of this school career. I really believe that of people don’t actually receive a Child team to educate staff, devastating illness, but perhaps the Wednesday’s Child delivery formal diagnosis, and are instead audit dining facilities, deliver even more so, they were eager to model is essential for the entire ‘battling with’ the illness behind assemblies, stage parent talks, get ‘hands-on’ support wherever academic community – from closed doors. and provide a one-to-one a child might be showing primary to higher education, and “Despite the clear statistical listening service or recovery some kind of eating distress or across mainstream and public picture of incidence, deaths, techniques for those children who disordered thoughts.” schools.” may need it. and prolonged waiting times, She added: “We are now able At the start of 2020, in findings however, we can be sure that a Debbie Watson, who founded to offer a really strong mix of gathered from NHS Digital Data, service like Wednesday’s Child is Wednesday’s Child after her own one-to-one, group and workshop it was revealed that hospital much needed. based delivery, calling upon an lived experience of the illness, admissions for eating disorders said: “Our protocol on eating exceptional team of Wednesday’s “Anything that contributes to had increased markedly between disorders is something long Child specialists who come from early intervention, and offers 2016 and 2019. overdue in the education arena, backgrounds in teaching, young hope to individuals and families, and we’re proud to have been people’s behavioural needs, There were 19,040 admissions can only be of huge benefit in the organisation to have really therapeutic solutions, nutrition for 2018/19, which was up from tackling this deadly illness.” Q&A with Framlingham College Deputy Head (Pastoral), Tom Caston Q. What attracted you to the We liked that Wednesday’s person takes little in the first or disguising. Our catering Wednesday’s Child approach, Child are very unique in their place and then returns most of manager is very much ‘on board’ rather than those offered by combination of both preventative it. Is this not the ‘elephant in the with the process, and has been longer-established charities such and reactive support. We are able room’ as far as an early alert to from the moment he was first as BEAT? to work with them in an entirely potential anorexia goes? How introduced to Wednesday’s Child bespoke way, taking into account should meal-times be supervised? and its approach. A. Supporting young people our boarding facilities, the way Is it time to revert to the staff in the education environment we deliver our PHSE programme, member at the head of every Q. Anorexics will find the dining with a variety of mental health how we educate parents, and table? hall intolerably stressful. Should and wellbeing issues has never how we upskill and support our schools – as a matter of policy A. It’s true that self-serve can been more complex, nor more staff in this key area too. It really – provide the spare manpower potentially leave a school exposed urgent, than it is right now. feels like they are ‘part of us’ and to assign a ‘mentor’ to the pupil to these vulnerabilities, so one they are on our doorstep within to assist at mealtimes, possibly At Framlingham, we’ve taken of the benefits of the audit hours of us having a specific even separate dining in a private the view that we needed to provided by Wednesday’s Child is need. space? identify providers and solutions we really get to bring these day which would take the time to Q. The modern concept of to day activities into sharp focus, A. This was a factor we talked tailor their approach around self-serve, self-clear school educate our catering team better, about very early on with our specific school, and would ‘restaurants’ invariably means encourage staff attendance in the Wednesday’s Child. They helped become an intrinsic part of our that few staff are on meal duty dining hall, and observe which us realise the high levels of anxiety pastoral offer. so none will notice if a young children are struggling, avoiding, that can be experienced by a

20 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] child suffering from any form of swimwear/PE kit and can’t hide eating disorder – from anorexia to it, or when he or she says they ARFID. We now have the ability can’t eat much lunch because to provide a smaller mealtime they have such huge meals at setting for those students who home (the exact opposite being need it, and for these meals to announced at home). How be ‘accompanied’ and supported should parents be approached, in an empathetic way. For our remembering they may be boarders, we can also call on unaware of the problem? Wednesday’s Child to run their A. We realise that our teaching Supportive Suppers in an evening and pastoral staff are spending a Own Branded Sportswear or weekend, where a speaker substantial number of hours with leads a casual non-threatening for your School. our pupils, and that therefore, if mealtime, and encourages conversation among those who we take collective responsibility may have more food anxiety. for observing behaviours and YOUR SCHOOL appearances, we are often able Q. Bulimics are likely to rush to to spot the onset of issues, even YOUR BRAND the toilets after a meal. How where they may be going initially OUR EXPERTISE can staff spot signs of induced undetected by parents. Naturally, vomiting? it’s a really sensitive issue for us With GFORCE Signature, you can create A. We have learned very quickly then to raise with our parents, a collection of highly marketable that eating disorders of a as we never want anyone to feel and recognisable sportswear that truly ‘purge’ nature can manifest in blamed or accused. It’s always represents your school, brand and ethos. vomiting, but can also be about about putting the health and immediately seeking to purge wellbeing of the child first, and through excess exercise, or the looking at how we can then hold use of things like laxatives. Staff the hand of the family and the and matron education on this is student to help them navigate the key to us all being much more illness and restore full health as aware of potential signs, but also quickly as possible. that we are then able to adopt It is very clear that where the the right kind of dialogue to relationship is already strong support the person – rather than between pastoral staff and causing confrontation and fear. parents, all issues (pastoral or With Wednesday’s Child as our academic) that surface can be partner, we’ve already been able dealt with in a collaborative and to deliver training for matrons undefended way. The structure and housemistresses. of the College and the way we Q. Often the first obvious signs have always operated, lends of an eating disorder may be itself to those hard conversations when a pupil gets changed into taking place.

PROTOCOL explained The Wednesday’s Child School Protocol has been developed specifically with the education environment in mind, with the focus on being able to support those experiencing eating disorders, or showing particular vulnerability to one. It follows a unique A.R.I.S.E framework, which builds knowledge, aids support skills, and ensures all issues are promptly reported and monitored. / Your kit as you want it designed The steps covered in the ARISE framework are: / Customise badging, neck tape, A AWARENESS inseam labels and more R RECOGNITION / No secondary branding to consider I INFORMING S SUPPORTING / Exclusive branding reinforcing your E EVALUATING school brand and ethos Every school undertaking the Protocol is embedded into the framework through / Reinforce and market your school’s a number of key activities to create ‘school-wide’ understanding. brand identity, not someone else’s These deliverables include: / Complimentary design service 1) A staff workshop 2) Parent / Caregiver events / No additional charges for label 3) ‘There for my Peer’ assembly customisation 4) Empathetic evaluation of current academic materials and school schedule 5) Annual refreshers of eating disorder education and awareness Alongside this, Wednesday’s Child can provide one2one support for identified 0116 255 6326 cases, and a number of workshops, insight sessions and practical opportunities [email protected] for parents, pupils and staff to learn more about body image, eating disorders and mental health. www.gforcesportswear.co.uk Costs vary by service level which range from year-round service to ad-hoc audits and workshops. For a confidential discussion at no obligation [email protected] www.wednesdayschild.co.uk

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 21 Five simple ways to look after your minibus drivers, protecting them, your pupils and your school By Chris Maynard, Managing Director of Castle Minibus Profit determines whether but they are not required to meet their drivers, before as well as vehicle checks. Your drivers may you need an Operator’s the same standards as with an O during a trip. Health checks to feel this is not their responsibility licence (O licence) or licence. Again, the only difference detect underlying issues like and assume that if they are pulled Section 19 Permit is whether you run your minibuses Obstructive Sleep Apnoea are also over in a defective vehicle the for profit. The drivers, the important as it is estimated 4% school is liable. In fact, it is the The difference between needing vehicles, routes, children, parents, of men and 2% of women suffer, driver (and potentially the school). a PSV O Licence or operating and therefore the risks – are all increasing the risk of a fatal They could receive points and under a Section 19 Permit is the same. accident. fines for driving an unroadworthy the commercial element. If you vehicle. Using a free and easy app are a not-for-profit school or How can schools operating 3. Driving ability and risks like STRIDA (School Transport have charitable status and do under a Section 19 Permit Your school’s minibus drivers may Record and Inspection Dashboard not benefit financially from your check, protect and evidence hold a standard B car licence, with App) will not only allow minibus operations, then you the care of their drivers? have D1 (101) entitlement or have teachers/staff to complete can operate under a Section 19 There are some very effective taken the D1 test. It is important quick daily checks, protecting Permit. ways to assess, train and evidence that you are assessing their themselves, but enable schools to If your school operates under an that you are looking after your driving knowledge and abilities record and manage these checks O licence, issued by the traffic drivers and vehicles which will regularly. MiDAS is recommended and their results. commissioner, you are required every four years but in the also help protect your school We are staggered daily at Castle to appoint a qualified transport intervening years you can measure should the worst happen. Minibus by the number of schools manager and your drivers risk using proven online tools. 1. Regular eyesight checks that don’t understand their must have full D1 entitlement, CODA. Castle’s online driver Gaining D1 entitlement involves obligations under a Section 19 tachographs in their vehicles assessment program enables an eye sight test and medical, Permit. It’s why we developed and CPC training; there must be schools to test their drivers online Currently we see around 10% of the Minibus Compliance Course systems in place to check licences, in four key areas. They are then candidates fail the eye test so, and continue to develop and health, driving ability and categorised high, low or medium statistically 10% of your drivers launch software and programs knowledge. risk. There are four online training could have inadequate vision. that make safety and compliance modules to complete, on-the- A former senior traffic The road safety group GEM just accessible to schools. It’s easy to road training is recommended commissioner described the released figures claiming eyesight concentrate on what is heavily for high risk results. This easily Section 19 Permit as a ‘badge is linked to more than 3000 fatal regulated and take less notice accessible tool enables schools to of trust’, because you are still and serious injury collisions each of areas, like minibuses, that are evidence they are assessing their required to make sure that your year. It is important to complete not currently in the spotlight drivers regularly and providing minibuses are operated within the an eyesight check with your or obviously regulated. But, additional ongoing training. law, with vehicles being properly drivers at least once a year (can it’s important to remember maintained and using drivers with they read a car number plate from 4. Licence checks that drivers of your precious the appropriate qualifications . 20 metres). Checking your drivers’ licences cargo need to be not only legal But, Section 19 Permit holders do for entitlement, endorsements but safe, and you should be 2. Tiredness can kill not come under the same scrutiny or restrictions will ensure you evidencing this. Our Minibus It was tiredness that caused the as O licence holders. are aware of any issues or Compliance Course has a whole M40 minibus crash in 1993 that prosecutions. It will also give you section dedicated to the driver So, are non-professional killed 12 pupils and their teacher. insight into whether they should because they are your biggest risk drivers as safe? Without a tachograph there is no factor – your vehicles are subject be wearing glasses to drive. The obvious answer is no, in fact way to restrict drivers’ hours, so to daily and weekly checks, 10 the opposite could be argued. schools need to ensure they have 5. Pre-journey vehicle checks -week safety inspections, services However, you can still pay your policies in place and are planning A Section 19 Permit does and MOTs. What checks are in drivers under a Section 19 Permit, trips with sufficient breaks for specifically require regular (daily) place for your drivers? For more information or your feedback to this article please contact us on: [email protected], visit www.castleminibus.co.uk or call 01869 253744

1 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/section-19-and-22-permits-not-for-profit-passenger-transport/section-19-and-22-permits-not-for-profit-passenger-transport 2 https://www.fleetnews.co.uk/news/latest-fleet-news/2019/10/15/driver-eyesight-tests-long-out-of-date 3 http://www.brake.org.uk/wake-up/15-facts-a-resources/facts/486-sleep-apnoea

22 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Introducing STRIDA ASTRID free app to helpA schools record SCHOOL TRANSPORT RECORD & andINSPECTION manage DASHBOARD minibus & APP checks from CASTLE MINIBUS

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For more information or your feedback to this article please contact us on: [email protected], visit www.castleminibus.co.uk or call 01869 253744 STRIDA SCHOOL TRANSPORT RECORD & INSPECTION DASHBOARD & APP Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 23 ProfileIn conversation with Edward Hayter

Born: 1969 As a Navigating Officer in the Royal Navy this. It should not, in my view, be left to charities to you saw service in operations across the pick up the pieces. I have been an active supporter Married Qworld in minesweepers, destroyers and of Walking with the Wounded and Help for Heroes, to Victoria with 4 children, aircraft carriers. Looking back on that part of your but I believe that the work that these charities life, what do you most miss about a life at sea? do is something that the government should 2 girls and 2 boys aged 19, 18, be providing. We are a developed and civilised 15 and 12 It has been a long time since I completed country and we owe our veterans a huge debt of my service in the Royal Navy, but I do gratitude for risking their lives and their families’ Schools and University Astill have very fond memories of the futures on our behalf. I was fortunate in that camaraderie amongst my fellow officers and I had a good undergraduate degree which the Attended: other members of the ship’s company, as well as Navy sponsored me through, and a network that Woodcote House School, the sense that it was a way of life rather than ever enabled me to get off to a good start in a civilian RGS Guildford and feeling like a job. There was also the genuine daily career. I also studied for a self-funded MBA while I sense of the adventure of life at sea which I do was still in the Navy and this helped enormously. Southampton University miss, as well as the shared common purpose of being a crew and the loyalty that this engendered When you moved into the world of private First job: to each other. equity, what struck you most forcefully 1988 Naval Officer (Royal Navy) Qas the difference between management What were your duties as ADC to HRH styles in the Navy and in civilian life? Did you First management job: the Princess Royal? And the stand-out find it tough to come to terms with different Qmemory? disciplinary regimes? 1993 Navigating Officer (Royal Navy) My duties were primarily working closely What struck me most forcefully were with the rest of the Private Office team the very strong similarities in the style First job in independent Aon detailed planning and preparation of management between business and for visits and functions and accompanying HRH A the Royal Navy. Many people who have little or education: to make sure things ran smoothly - and sorting no experience of life in the armed forces assume 2020 St Edward’s Oxford things out when they didn’t, particularly logistical it is all about giving and receiving orders and issues. not deviating from these. Whilst fundamentally Appointed to current job: the structure of orders and communication is Some service people find it hard to adjust necessarily very hierarchical in the Armed Forces, 2020 to life outside the military; indeed it is the reality of getting things done day-to-day, Qsaid that a significant proportion of rough thinking creatively about finding solutions to Favourite piece of music: sleepers in our towns and cities have a forces operational and management challenges, and America (Razorlight) background. Could/should the military do more leading teams of people to achieve objectives is to prepare people for life outside? How did you ultimately much more similar to civilian life than Favourite food: prepare? you might imagine. This, I think, is particularly true in the Royal Navy where the distinctions between Curry I am aware that there is a very good officers and other ranks is much less marked. This re-settlement and job seeking service is largely because of the nature of life on a ship Favourite drink: for personnel leaving the Armed Forces A where, quite literally, everyone is in the same boat, and I think this has improved in recent years. Claret - Chateau Talbot and the sense of a shared purpose and reliance on However there is no doubt that it can be a difficult each other is most obvious. Favourite holiday destination: transition for some, particularly those leaving Nepal after long service in the armed forces or those What attracted you to the opportunity leaving without specific transferrable skills or to work as a Bursar in the independent Favourite leisure pastime: qualifications. The armed forces does provide Qschools sector? Were you not concerned opportunities for personnel throughout their that the role might seem rather pedestrian after Sailing careers to gain civilian qualifications wherever the full-on excitements of the Navy and high possible to ease the transition to civilian life when finance? Favourite TV or radio it comes. It does concern me that one sees a large programme/series: number of former service personnel sleeping Throughout my business career, I had rough or struggling with mental and physical always imagined that I would find myself Peaky Blinders health issues. There is no doubt, in my view, that Aworking in a senior management role in a mental health issues amongst armed service business that I was passionate about, but I knew Suggested epitaph: personnel, particularly those who have seen active that I could only work in an organisation that I I almost wished we were service, is an area that needs more government believed in and was fully bought in to culturally butterflies and liv’d but three attention and support. We should, as a society, and strategically. I have been offered similar look after our veterans better than we do. The roles in other businesses and sectors over the summer days (Keats) Americans are a great example when it comes to years, including some that we had invested in

24 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Edward Hayter has been Bursar & Chief Operating Officer at St. Edward’s School, Oxfordshire, since the start of the year. After service in the Royal Navy, and serving as ADC to HRH The Princess Royal, he worked in the private equity sector. Artist’s impression of the new academic centre opening in September

when I was in Private Equity. Whilst on the face be any excuse for this? Do you agree with adapted to include Harkness tables which of it they may seem more exciting businesses the suggestion that there should be a legally- encourage a far more interactive and pupil-led than the independent education sector, the binding minimum notice period required and a learning environment. These spaces are at the reality ‘under the bonnet’ is that very often central ‘insurance’ fund to ensure it? heart of the way we have designed the exciting the fundamentals of the businesses were not and substantial new development on our main glamorous or exciting at all. I found that most All schools whether state or independent Quad, which is due to complete this summer and management teams were ultimately only really need very careful financial management incorporates a large, modern, Oxbridge-inspired interested in making money and the business Abut as with all businesses it is almost Library and a university-style academic centre. was just a vehicle for them to achieve this. I impossible to protect customers and suppliers first started thinking about a role as a Bursar in a failure scenario. To attempt to do so in the Bursary provision is seen as increasingly following a conversation with a friend who is education sector would, I think, serve to reduce important in the sector, especially a Fellow at an Oxford College where they had the pressure on schools to act with financial Qfor those schools which operate as recently recruited a new Bursar who up until prudence and pass on a layer of unwelcome charities. Schools without the benefit of large then had been in the City. When the Bursar & and, in my view, unfair cost to all schools. My endowments can find that they need to increase COO role at St Edward’s was advertised, it was position on this is that, alongside pastoral and fees to fund such provision. Is this fair when clear from the job description that the School academic excellence, schools need the very best many parents already struggle to meet the cost? was looking for someone with my commercial business minds to help them grow and flourish. and operational experience rather than an One of the things parents and teachers should 15% of our pupils receive means- education sector specialist. In fact, my wife do when looking at school choices is to consider tested bursaries funded in a variety of ways including endowments, legacies, said “that’s got your name on it”, and now it the financial state of the school, just as anyone A donations and income streams such as letting has! The pace of the role is as far from being would when joining a company as an employee out our facilities to educational groups during pedestrian as you could imagine. The school or buying a service over a period of time. the holidays. Ultimately, we want to reach is growing and the Governors are ambitious, Insurance and litigious based solutions are not the stage where our admissions policy can be which makes it an exciting and challenging always the answer to everything. genuinely needs-blind. To build towards this, we place to be. I feel genuinely privileged to be part You were educated at the Royal are currently in the process of opening a number of the team taking the School forward and as a Grammar School, Guildford, where you of schools in China in partnership with a Chinese former parent I think I have a useful perspective were a Music Scholar. The differing education provider and we have refreshed and to bring. Q social pressures on young people today have reinvested in our Development Department with One of the first issues you faced been documented well enough, but how do you a view to growing our endowment funds for when you started at St. Edward’s was think the educational experience of pupils has Bursary provision. Regardless of our charitable Qthe change to the Teachers’ Pension changed? Can bursars predict and prepare for status, I think this vision sends a strong ethical Scheme, which has proved challenging for future changes by designing and building better message to parents and pupils and it will also staff and managements at many independent learning spaces? ensure that the school is able to attract a wide schools. Do you think more should have been and socially diverse body of pupils which will be done at a national level to negotiate a sensible I think one of the newer and more of benefit to all members of our community. and acceptable solution and so head off local difficult to mitigate pressures on young difficulties? Apeople today compared with when I was You were a top-level rower at University, at school, is the unpredictability of the world and now enjoy sailing and cycling. This is clearly a very complex and of employment. Young people making A-Level QThere is increasing evidence that sensitive area for the UK education or IB choices now might not be entering the nutrition plays a serious part in both physical sector. Pension provision has necessarily job market for another 6 years (if they intend achievement and mental health? What steps A to go on to university). For some, the jobs they do you take at St. Edward’s to ensure your staff undergone significant structural changes in almost every sector of employment in the end up going in to may not currently exist. and pupils enjoy a healthy diet while at school? UK with defined benefit schemes having Technology and AI is creating disruption and a disappeared from the private sector almost pace of change in many sectors which makes There are two aspects to this which I entirely due to the aging population profile of it challenging for young people to think about think are important. We want to provide the UK and the cost of providing DB pension careers in anything other than the short term. Afood that pupils enjoy but also ensure schemes therefore proving very difficult to However I do think schools can help pupils to that we provide them with a balanced diet and sustain financially. The pensions issue aside, I do prepare for this by providing them with skills and sufficient choice without creating too much believe that we need to invest more as a country resilience to manage and cope with change, and waste. We engage actively with pupils and in the education of our children and this will this includes the way they learn as well as what staff in both these areas and there are regular mean looking at the remuneration structure of they learn. St Edward’s, Oxford, is at the forefront opportunities for pupils to give us their thoughts teachers to attract more people in to teaching of thinking about how to better prepare its and feedback. In a boarding school, just like the as a career. pupils in this way through the development of Navy, food is an extremely important contributor a modified GCSE curriculum including two new to morale or what we now call ‘wellbeing’ and A number of independent schools have GCSEs currently unique to the school called we take this very seriously indeed. closed at very short-notice, leaving Pathways and Perspectives. Coupled with this, Qstaff and pupils high and dry. Can there the school is developing new learning spaces Continued >

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 25 ProfileIn conversation with Edward Hayter (continued)

If you were interviewing candidates for would need to be entrepreneurial and with community of teenagers. People are the most the role of Bursar at an independent an international outlook with experience of important part of my job – the pupils and the Qschool, what particular personal/skill developing, implementing and managing plans staff – and I am enjoying finding out more qualities would you be looking for? for business growth. It would also be important about the life of the School through the people for the person to be able to demonstrate I meet. A prospective Bursar would also need I would be looking for a commercially- experience of managing projects and budgets, to be good at managing a very diverse range of minded person with strong financial and maintaining budgetary control – and tasks and projects, or to coin a phrase, good a Aand business leadership skills. They to genuinely enjoy working alongside a spinning many plates! Boys break 135-year all-girls tradition ...but only one evening a week! Boys will study at all-girls Roedean national curriculum including following the rules exactly, but it’s School, Sussex, for the first time in genetic engineering, cryptology completely different – everyone’s its 135-year history – but only on a and the psychology of crime. really friendly. It’s got opportunities Wednesday evening. for everyone, no matter what you Each Wednesday evening some14 want to do.” The school has been a bastion of boys and 39 girls from local exclusively-female education since secondary schools visit the famous Roedean pupil Lola Clarke it was founded in the 19th century girls’ school high on the cliffs to agreed: “It’s great to participate to prepare girls for the rigours of settle down to language code- in discussions with people who newly opened Cambridge women’s breaking, philosophy and stats and are bringing in new ideas and colleges Girton and Newnham. hard maths sessions. new perspectives. I think that Old Roedeanians would be really It has produced a stream of actors, Stanley Bradley-Scott from Dorothy Stringer School said: “I proud that we are able to have this politicians, journalists, human the love of it – something Roedean think that Roedean’s academy experience of working with boys rights campaigners, scientists and has espoused throughout its is incredible – there is a massive sometimes.” artists, all achieving firsts in their history – and we have seen children range of modules, so you can be fields across the centuries. Headteacher Oliver Blond (pictured) absolutely loving it.” super-science-y or you can be the said: “We have been running the But 2020 has seen the arrival of However, there was one hiccup. complete opposite. My friends are Roedean Academy for quite a boys at its doors overlooking the Blond laughed: “When I was giving curious to see what it’s actually few years now and we just saw English Channel as they take part like – we drive past here a lot and a welcome talk, one boy raised his no reason why boys from the city in the school’s Roedean Academy see this incredible building, but we hand to ask where the toilets were couldn’t start enjoying the classes programme. never knew much about what was and it only then occurred to us that too. They are tackling subjects that going on.” there were no boys’ toilets in the The programme invites Year 10 stretch and challenge them and go school at all.” children from across the city to Kumi Kemp from Longhill School beyond what’s on the curriculum participate in a series of lessons added: “I thought Roedean would and what they need to know to Staff toilets, of course, were made that stretch them beyond the be a bit uptight with everyone pass GCSEs. It’s learning just for available. Support for NSPCC Children at Dolphin School, themselves safe from harm and get two week period to support the towards the fundraising, if parents Berkshire, received a visit from the help if they have any worries. NSPCC, with the results being were so willing! NSPCC last month (February) to announced in assembly after half An NSPCC representative returned Following the initial visit, students term. deliver their Speak Out, Stay Safe. to count and collect the monies from Reception to Year 8 were assembly, and to share information PE teacher, Lewis Franklin, ran raised the week after half term, on how children can keep encouraged to raise funds over a fundraising events during PE before reporting the results to the lessons over the course of a normal school. She thought she would be school week. A suggested minimum doing this for 20 minutes or so, but donation of £1 was encouraged, due to the amount raised, she was but parents (and friends and family) here for well over an hour! After were encouraged to sponsor children a quick refresher quiz in assembly, per skip, jump etc. to set targets she presented the total figure to the for the children. Each PE session staff and pupils - £2,478! entailed a carousel of activities including skipping, shuttle runs, sit- This made Dolphin only the sixth ups or squats, and star jumps. They school in Berkshire to raise over also had the option of carrying out £2000, and the smallest school to some home chores for extra cash achieve this milestone.

26 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Outdoor For Schools

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Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 27 Pedagogical Reading Groups – The ‘Why’ and the ‘How’ Book Groups. Thoughts? The frantic preparations of vol-au-vents and the filling of decanters of wine, the more to help you tell your friend what you really thought of this month’s thriller. Reading academic research on teaching. Thoughts? Didn’t I do that already at University? What if, instead of the latest thriller or celebrity biography, the material on the reading list at the book group was the very article you’ve been meaning to read on the latest evidence-based practice? The slight marginal gain you thought you might achieve in your teaching as a result of slogging through the dense, dry academic prose might not have produced the threshold motivation to just do it. But try adding the social pressure of a book group as well as refreshments; we might be getting somewhere, suggests Philip Morrow, Head of Spanish at Sherborne School, Dorset... Academic reading groups are language teaching pedagogy library The big issues in language • Include videos and podcasts in nothing new. It’s how a lot of and organised its first Reading pedagogy raised by the articles your reading list. scientific research gets disseminated Group at the end of last term. kicked off a lively discussion • Invest in a departmental before publication. The pressure but produced one of the Language teachers from Sherborne of the group dynamic is one most rewarding professional pedagogy library. The key texts School and Sherborne Girls met reason they feature as Tip 23 conversations of the year. are probably available second- in Bow House, close enough to of Jack Richards’ 50 Tips for hand. refreshments but in a quiet space Most importantly, a post about our Teacher Development (Richards meeting on the biggest language • Vary the format: everyone reads 2017). He stresses that critical and where we could get to grips with teachers’ Facebook group got 98 the same text; someone reviews collaborative reading of relevant the issues. likes and 18 comments, suggesting articles and books is a great source For our first meeting we chose the a book; everyone brings a that there is some demand for this of professional development: topic of grammar and distributed a different text. kind of serious, yet low-pressure, “Reading well-chosen articles and list of articles and videos that Steve engagement with the latest • It has to be fun; keep the books can help keep you up to date Smith, an ubiquitous language developments in the field. pressure low. with developments in language teaching guru, had helpfully teaching as well as provide ideas published on his website. We each Top tips for making a reading This term the MFL Reading Group that you can apply in your practice” chose and read one of the pieces group work: meets again with vocabulary as (Richards 2017). beforehand and did our best to • Find a reading list online by our topic, newcomers are always With all this in mind, the MFL summarise the gist of the findings engaging with the Twitter welcome, especially if you bring Department invested in its very own for the group. community of your subject. vol-au-vents!

References: Richards, J.C. (2017). Cambridge Handbooks for Language Teachers: 50 Tips for Teacher Development. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. Fenton-Smith, B., and Stillwell, C. (2011). Reading discussion groups for teachers: connecting theory to practice. ELT Journal. 65(3), 251-259. Smith, S., (2020). Grammar [online]. Informed Language Teacher. [Viewed 1 February 2020]. Available from: https://www.informedlanguageteacher.com/grammar-2 Splash of colour A meadow of ceramic wildflowers designed to bring colour and before the real wildflowers emerge. current theme at school around created by Truro School pupils joy into the community during Pupils and staff at Truro School the protection and preservation of and staff appeared overnight the winter months, bridging the were involved in the sculpting of nature for future generations. on the Cornish town’s Trafalgar gap between autumn and spring the wildflowers, building upon a Andrew Gordon-Brown, Truro Roundabout. School Headmaster said: “Truro The wildflowers appeared School celebrates its 140th overnight, complementing anniversary this year and like the the four hedgehogs on the School, wildflowers have grown roundabout that was recently and evolved for many years, named Roundabout of the Year flowering in many shapes, sizes by the Roundabout Appreciation and colours. The roundabout is Society. a celebration of our past and a nod to the future, a future with a The project aims to highlight the bright, sustainable focus. importance of wildflowers on our environment, and their role “It is hoped the wildflowers in providing pollinators (bees will add a cheerfulness to these and other insects) with local dark winter months, and be food sources across the seasons. enjoyed by all those who pass the The ceramic wildflowers are also roundabout.

28 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Smarter revision with CENTURY CENTURY combines learning science, AI and neuroscience to help every student revise more effectively.

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Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 29 ‘Pawfessor’ helps improve reading and confidence Christ College Brecon have By reading to Tegan, who belongs confidently and it’s so funny when welcomed a furry friend to their to Christ College Head Gareth she rolls around on the floor.” junior school to help pupils Pearson, pupils feel more relaxed Fellow pupil Matilda Hill said: “It learning to read. and the worry of making mistakes makes me more confident to read. when reading is removed. While 8-year-old Golden Labrador, Tegan It’s the highlight of my day. I love reading, phrases become more has recently joined St Nicholas reading to Tegan.” important as the pupils share House to spend three afternoons the story with Tegan, this can As well as attending reading a week with students working to encourage the pupils to self- sessions Tegan joins pupils in the improve their reading ability. correct any misread words or weekly welly walk during which Extensive research has shown the sentences. This in turn builds their students take a walk and collect any value of bringing gentle animals, confidence. litter they pass, encouraging pupils such as dogs, into schools to As well as the improvement to to do their bit for the environment. work with children. This has led reading skills, introducing gentle to a number of programs being Julie Lewis, Head at St Nicholas dogs to pupils can improve the developed to break down the House said: “This is such a great confidence of those who may barriers children experience to initiative that’s shown to be really be frightened or nervous around reading, one of the biggest being beneficial to the students. Having them by teaching canine body confidence and anxiety. Tegan onsite and interacting with language and how to spot signs of them has been really lovely. The The University of Buckingham discomfort in dogs. students have all become much Vice-chancellor, Sir Anthony their confidence. I’m really looking Tegan has been very well received more enthusiastic about reading Seldon told The University of by pupils who are enthusiastic sessions and often ask when Tegan forward to seeing where we can Buckingham Ultimate Wellbeing about upcoming reading sessions will be onsite next. take this initiative and ensuring in Education Conference and for Tegan’s next visit. attendees it is no longer possible “Their reading skills have also as many students as possible can for schools to focus solely on Many of the pupils who read with shown improvement along with benefit from it.” academic achievements without Tegan discussed their increase considering the emotional in confidence as well as Tegan’s wellbeing of their pupils. This playful nature. Pupil Logan Fec Weak reading spells problems is something Christ College is said: “I like to read to Tegan Children who are weak readers will struggle as much in maths embracing with Tegan. because it helps me read more and science at GCSE as they do in English and in arts subjects, according to one of the biggest ever studies of reading which MOTIVATIONAL, ASPIRATIONAL, ENCOURAGING involved students at independent and maintained schools. The findings show that while there is a significant connection YOUR CHOICE, ANY SIZE, between reading ability and success in all GCSE subjects, the link SHAPE, STYLE, between good reading and good grades is actually higher in maths FRAMING than in some arts subjects like English literature and history. OR COLOUR! The research by GL Assessment analysed reading abilities and GCSE results of more than 370,000 secondary-age school students during 2018/19.

Books for Good Kind hearted bookworms from supply of beautiful, brand-new Winterfold School, Worcestershire, books and visits from professional have been awarded an storytellers, offer children in Goldtree Bespoke, “Outstanding School” certificate hospital the chance to escape to 9 Huffwood Manor Trading Estate, other worlds in their imagination. Partridge Green, West Sussex, RH13 8AU for their continued support of the charity Read for Good. The charity For further info and your questions answered: QUALITY & In a letter to Mrs Sarah Miles, Head transforms the lives of thousands Tel: 0345 260 2350 or 01403 711553 BESPOKE of English at the School, the charity Email: [email protected] SERVICE of children in hospital by providing confirmed that the total amount them with new books, funded by donated to them since 1998 had www.goldtreebespoke.co.uk Readathon donations. The regular reached £24,577.

30 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Worldwide perspectives Successful Oceania tour King William’s College, Isle of Man, enjoy tourist hotspots in each is reflecting on a ‘once in a lifetime’ destination. sports tour. Bernadette Dunn, Director of Sport 75 pupils aged between 14 and 18, at King William’s College, said: who attend the Castletown school, ‘Our sports tours take place every plus 11 members of staff, spent three years in destinations across two weeks in New Zealand, Fiji the globe, with previous years Off to Gothia World Cup and Australia for their Rugby and including visits to Canada, South Stroud School, Hampshire, has Lions, is run by teachers from Hockey Tour. America, Australia and the Far announced that five of its pupils across the region and offer pupils have been selected to represent the As well as competing against East. It’s an incredible opportunity from over 60 Prep Schools the ‘Prep School Lions’ in the Football local high schools sports teams, for the students to see the world, opportunity to access high quality World Youth Cup (Gothia Cup) in the youngsters were given the experience different cultures, make coaching and showcase their skills Gothenburg, Sweden in July. opportunity to experience new new friends and play competitive at representative level. The Year 6 cultures, taste new cuisine and sport”. The girls were selected to play after girls were then selected from these competing in the ‘Prep Schools’ trials to take part in the World District Football Trials’, which Youth Cup (Gothia Cup), which is took place last November. The an international youth tournament set-up, known as the Prep Schools’ held in Sweden. Action-packed trip to Iceland St Benedict’s School, London, There were many unique Geography GCSE and A level experiences, such as walking students went on a trip to Iceland between two of Earth’s major plates; swimming in the world famous Blue at half term, enjoying spectacular Pictured: Boys’ squad near Lagoon fed by a thermal power coastal scenery, thermal pools Sydney Harbour Bridge; girls station; trekking over the fells to team in Christchurch and rivers, beautiful waterfalls swim in a thermal river; witnessing and bubbling hot mud pools and the mighty Strokkur, the planet’s geysers. most active geyser.

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Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 31 New Financial Year, New Employment Rules A sweep of changes to employment law are coming into force from April this year, to coincide with the new financial year. The major changes are outlined below and schools would be well advised to consider the extent to which they are affected by these changes and take any necessary action in good time, advises lawyer Louise Smyth... Contract reform The 52-week reference period a child under the age of 18, or 2020, NICs will also be chargeable From 6 April 2020 schools will will apply to all calculations of suffer a stillbirth from 24 weeks on payments above the £30,000. need to make changes to comply statutory holiday pay under the of pregnancy, irrespective of how Payment relating solely to the with new rules in relation to WTR 1998 in which the 12-week long they have worked for their termination of employment will section 1 statements. These reference period would otherwise employer.” This leave can be taken continue to be exempt from changes will apply to any person have been used (in other words, in one block or two separate blocks employee NICs. workers with no normal working lasting 1 week each. It must be who starts work on or after 6 April National Minimum Wage and these are detailed below: hours, and workers with normal taken within 56 weeks of the date working hours whose pay varies of the child’s death and employees Following the recommendations • The obligation on schools, as with the amount of work done or must also comply with simple of the Low Pay Commission, the employers, to provide section 1 the times or days on which it is notice requirements, although the government will increase the statements will be extended to done). legislation does allow for short national minimum wage from April workers (as well as employees). notice. 2020 to the following rates: The government intends to launch • The one–month service a campaign to boost awareness The right to receive statutory • Apprentices: £4.15 an hour; requirement before an employee, of holiday and holiday pay rights pay during such leave, on the • 16-17 year olds: £4.55 an hour; and now a worker, is entitled to other hand, will be subject to the among employers and individuals. • 18-20 year olds: £6.45 an hour; receive their section 1 statements This will include new guidance employee satisfying a few eligibility will no longer apply. Employees • 21-24 year olds: £8.20 an hour; (produced in conjunction with criteria. They must have at least and workers will be entitled to Acas) with real life examples to 26 weeks’ continuous employment • National living wage (workers receive their section 1 statements support the interpretation of and meet minimum earnings aged 25 and over): £8.72 an from ‘day one’. holiday pay rules. criteria. Eligible employees would hour. then qualify for the same rate of • The minimum requirements Parental Bereavement pay as that of statutory paternity IR35 for these statements have pay (which will be £151.20 a Changes to IR35 will also apply been extended and include Leave week from April 2020, or 90% of from April 2020. This will impact information on matters such Two new sets of regulations weekly earnings if this is lower). schools above a certain size that as probation, days of the week relating to paid parental Employees who do not satisfy these use the services of individuals worked, training etc. bereavement leave have been laid before Parliament. They are: criteria will only be entitled to take who are engaged through an Holiday Pay unpaid leave. Schools ought to intermediary (usually their own • the Parental Bereavement Leave From 6 April, the reference period review and update their handbooks personal service company or Regulations 2020, and used to calculate statutory holiday and/or family friendly policies to “PSC”) but would be classed as an pay will increase from 12 weeks • the Statutory Parental include bereavement leave. employee if they contracted directly with the school. The rules are to 52 weeks. This will ensure that Bereavement Pay (General) Termination Payment workers who do not have a regular Regulations 2020. designed to combat tax avoidance working pattern throughout the Changes by ensuring these individuals They respectively govern the right As of 6 April, all ex-gratia year are not disadvantaged by (often referred to as off-payroll to leave and right to pay during termination payments above taking their holiday at a quiet time workers) pay the same tax and any such leave and are due to £30,000 will be subject to of the year when their weekly pay National Insurance contributions come into force on 6 April 2020. deductions of NICs as well as might be lower. This is unlikely as employees. The changes impact income tax. to impact on how holiday is From 6 April 2020 these new all arrangements where payments calculated for regular teaching regulations will provide, in the The first £30,000 of a termination are received on or after 6 April, staff but schools may wish to words of the government press payment is exempt from tax and and affected schools are therefore consider whether arrangements for release, “a statutory right to a NICs. Currently, tax is payable on advised to carry out any necessary peripatetic teachers and/or casual minimum of 2 weeks’ leave for sums above this amount, but NICs steps to ensure compliance well staff may be affected. all employed parents if they lose are not chargeable. As of April before this date. Louise Smyth is an Associate in the Employment Group at law firm Field Seymour Parkes. She is also a member of the firm’s Education Group. 0118 951 6200. [email protected]

32 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Hemery completes coaching team Dauntsey’s School, Wiltshire, has appointed David Hemery to its athletics coaching team. David won a gold medal in the 400 metre hurdles in Mexico City in the 1968 Olympic Games. He was crowned Sports Personality of the Year that year and later went into sports politics, becoming president of UK Athletics and then Vice-Chairman of the British Olympic Association. In 2011, David became the first Briton to be awarded the European Olympic Committee’s Laurel Award Tennis hopefuls meet their idol for services to sport. across a wide range of sports here West Buckland School, Devon, tennis stars coming up through the at Dauntsey’s, many of whom have tennis hopefuls met their greatest Prep School. David will work with the existing idol, Rafa Nadal, in Majorca during played at the highest level. We are Year 5 pupils Freddie Lloyd, Eric team to coach Dauntsey’s pupils in training at his tennis academy. thrilled to have David join this team Lorimer and Bradley Lock were athletics. and look forward to the pupils West Buckland, in Devon, has joined by Year 3 Martha-May Lloyd, Marcus Olsen, Director of Sport, benefiting from his experience in strength in depth in its tennis for a week of tennis. No doubt Dauntsey’s said: “We have a very the summer when the athletics talent and it is exciting to see the their hero, Rafa, has inspired them strong team of professional coaches season kicks off.” next generation of home-grown even more! National Plate Winners Felsted School, Essex, 1st XV rugby and their hosts Seaford College, first time that we have entered this team kicked off their 7s season by narrowly missing out on a cup win tournament which included several winning the plate at the Seaford after a defeat from Gordon’s School. well-known schools. The boys put 7s national tournament. They won in some outstanding performances four out of their five games, beating Director of Rugby Andrew Le throughout the day and this was a Hurstpierpoint, New Hall, Worcester Chevalier comments; “This was the great start to the Rugby 7s season.”

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Oswin Frost A5 Ad art.indd 1 05/03/2020 13:51 Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 33 Music, Drama & Dance HRH visit marks 200th anniversary celebrations Princess Helena College, have The Duchess of Gloucester Hertfordshire, welcomed its attend, and felt privileged that president Her Royal Highness we could show her a wonderful The Duchess of Gloucester to and inspiring evening of dance. an Evening of Dance as part of Each performance was full of the school’s 200th anniversary passion and emotion, mesmerising celebrations. everyone.” Upon arrival, The Duchess of The dance performances Gloucester was greeted by The ranged from Ballet to K-Pop, Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire Contemporary to Tap. The evening and Mrs Sarah Davis, Head of included GCSE and A-Level dance Princess Helena College. Before the works, with many of the pieces show and during the interval the choreographed by the students Duchess met with students and themselves in preparation for their staff to hear the latest news from forthcoming practical examination. the school and also of the work The show was closed by students that had gone into the show. from across the school performing Said Mrs Davis: “Our Evening of a dance that had been inspired by the school crest and the rich Dance has been highly anticipated, Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Gloucester being introduced to and the standard, skill and history of Princess Helena College. students from Princess Helena College by the Head Mrs Sarah Davis complexity of all the dances were The Duchess has been president quite outstanding. I was extremely of Princess Helena College since proud of all the students and the 2000 and has visited the school staff’s hard work to produce such on a number of occasions. As part an amazing event. of the anniversary celebrations, I was therefore delighted Princess Helena College has to welcome The Duchess of launched the Bicentennial Gloucester back to Princess Helena Scholarship which recognises College. We have a long history students, internally and externally, of royal patronage and were that have achieved a high level honoured that the Duchess could of attainment in the entrance, join us as we begin to celebrate internal or GCSE examinations. our 200th anniversary.” Further events will be held throughout the year to mark this Head of Dance at Princess Helena momentous anniversary, including College, Elizabeth Newland said: a Community Fun Day on Saturday “We were extremely honoured to 27 June. Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Gloucester with students from Princess Helena College Former music teacher honoured More than 130 former pupils and colleagues Paul Hale (English organist and Organist Emeritus gathered at Solihull School, West Midlands, of Southwell Minster). He recalled his lessons in to honour one of the school’s longest-serving the 1960’s, as did fellow musicians David Briggs teachers, Jill Godsall, and mark the opening of and Laurence Cummings via video message. the Jill Godsall Recital Room. Three current Solihull School pupils performed a Headmaster David EJJ Lloyd welcomed guests short concert, which culminated in a piece for six and highlighted some of Jill’s many achievements hands – played by Jill, Solihull School’s Director in her 60 year association with the school, of Music, Tim Kermode and Head of Strings, including working under nine Headmasters and Hanlie Marten. six Bursars and teaching over 1,500 students – as well as accompanying a similar number in The proceedings finished with Jill unveiling a examinations and recitals. commemorative plaque, which reads “Admired and appreciated for inspiring teaching, loyalty A ribbon cutting ceremony to officially open The and dedication to pupils, music and the school”. Jill Godsall Recital Room in The David Turnbull Music School was followed by a ‘look back’ Jill Godsall joined the Solihull music staff in speech, from one of Jill’s most illustrious pupils 1954, finally retiring in 2014.

34 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Education Business.pdf 1 06/03/2020 15:39:47

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Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 35 Music, Drama & Dance Ambitious outreach programme A flagship collaboration between with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra the Scottish Chamber Orchestra during his stay in Edinburgh. (SCO) and St Mary’s Music School, The second masterclass features Edinburgh, is the centrepiece of violist Lawrence Power, in demand a new outreach programme for worldwide as a recitalist, concerto 2020, bringing talented young soloist and chamber music partner. instrumentalists together with professional musicians. Launching the 2020 outreach programme, Headteacher at St The SCO Wind Academy is open to Mary’s Music School, Dr Kenneth school-aged flute, clarinet, oboe, Taylor said: “‘St Mary’s Music bassoon and French horn players School is delighted to launch 2020 who have reached Grade 6 standard with these exciting events which will and above and takes place over a series of three sessions in Edinburgh be wonderful opportunities to learn, this spring. both for those young musicians who actively take part and for those who The outreach programme are able to observe. Our pupils are also includes a series of in the fortunate position of being open masterclasses featuring able to work with world-renowned internationally respected musicians on a frequent basis and musicians. It began with the 7th it is an important function of the Annual Nigel Murray Masterclass School to extend this opportunity featuring German-French cellist to other young musicians and their and conductor Nicolas Altstaedt. teachers, with no cost attached.” Altstaedt is renowned worldwide for his musical integrity and St Mary’s Music School is Scotland’s effortless virtuosity and is one of national music school – one of five the most sought-after and versatile Government-supported specialist artists today. He also performed music schools in the UK and the Nicolas Altstaedt (cellist and conductor) and Lawrence Power (violist) Shostakovich Cello Concerto No. 1 only one of its kind in Scotland. Celebrating diploma achievement A teenage student who performed the Rodolfus Choir and soprano as well as completing a 2,000- on a popular BBC television Katherine Jenkins at The Royal word programme and a complex programme is celebrating after Albert Hall late last year. piece of sight reading. The exam gaining a full singing diploma – a Now the teenager, who wants to is considered to be of university feat not usually achieved until much secure a choral scholarship for King’s standard. older. College Cambridge, has gained Elizabeth White, director of music John Scholey, 16, a student at his full singing diploma, the first at BGS, said: “We’re all very proud Bradford Grammar School (BGS), student in years to achieve the of John and his achievements, and sang on Michael Portillo’s Great accolade at the school. for a pupil to even pass this exam, British Railway Journeys last year, For his latest achievement, the let alone one so young, is fantastic. performing Frederick Delius’s DipABRSM (Diploma of the The diploma really is a stunning La Lune Blanche. He sings with Associated Board of the Royal achievement. It requires technical the National Youth Choirs of Schools of Music), the teenager had accuracy but also a musical maturity Great Britain and also sang with to perform 35 minutes of singing, and John possesses both of these.” ‘All the World’s Your Stage’ Students from the Stamford current academic studies. The day whilst Heidi Hooper, Year 13, won a Endowed Schools have won a culminated in a showcase of the prize for the ‘Best Comedy Actress’, multitude of awards for their students’ linguistic talents, as teams after her comical imitation of a performance in the ‘All the World’s performed their plays. French Pâtissier. Your Stage’ modern foreign Stamford won the overall language drama competition, held The Stamford Endowed Schools competition, being presented the at the Girls Day School Trust in team comprised of six Year 12 award for ‘Best Play’, with two Nottingham. students; Eloise Quetglas-Peach, students also receiving individual Forty students competed from awards. Eloise Quetglas-Peach, Year Lizzie Clark, Robert Couchman, five schools, creating their own 12, took home the prize for ‘Best Lottie Pike, Thomas Skillen and short plays in French and Spanish, Actress’, for her impersonation of Lidia Curtis, alongside Heidi Hooper, exploring themes relevant to their an elderly French grandmother, Year 13.

36 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Music, Drama & Dance Here’s a little something I made earlier… Talented musicians put on a showcase of tunes old and brand new, including a first outing of a Chapel choir performs in Venice mandolin handmade by its player, Members of the King Edward’s While rehearsing and performing when Lewes old Grammar School, Witley, Surrey, Chapel Choir made were central to the experience, the Sussex, held a Musical Evening. their biennial trip to Italy recently, pupils had plenty of time to enjoy The audience enjoyed everything this year travelling to Venice, many of Venice’s breathtaking from Lewis Capaldi hits to Schubert where pupils had the privilege of sights, including: La Fenice, and Bach classics. performing at a number of iconic Venice’s famed and opulent opera 17-year-old Felix St Maur Sheil basilicas and churches, as well house; The Accademia, Venice’s art chose the showcase to reveal the as participating in a Venetian gallery which is home to priceless everyone with his own acoustic mask making workshop, visiting mandolin he has crafted himself paintings; the famous landmark guitar composition. local attractions – and of course as part of his BTEC in 3D Art and Doges’ Palace; an interactive indulging in pizza, pasta and Design. The gifted instrumentalist, Year 11 flautists Phoebe Hatch museum dedicated to Leonardo authentic Italian gelato! pictured, who plays guitar and and Lily Ellis treated the room to da Vinci; The Bridge of Sighs ukulele, took just 25 hours to make their GCSE piece Telemann’s Dolce The group of 35, was led by the and of course, numerous trips it and played Hummel’s Mandolin Duet and Joshua Reid produced a Director of Music, Stasio Sliwka and on vaporettos, Venice’s public beautiful Rachmaninov’s Elegy. comprised pupils aged 11 to 18. Sonata 3rd Movement. waterbus travelling along the Head of Music Matt Casterton One of the key highlights was the He said: “I started making it in Grand Canal. said: “What makes us so proud at opportunity for the Chapel Choir to December and I just researched how LOGS is that there are pupils here sing Choral Evensong at St George’s In addition to the School’s to do it online. I enjoyed it so much from all across the year groups. and Masses at Frari and at the entire fulltime music staff, some I might make a lute next!” renowned l Basilica di San Marco parents and grandparents also Music really is an integral part You could hear a pin drop when (St Mark’s Basilica) one of the city’s accompanied the pupils on this of the LOGS experience and it’s most spectacular buildings. memorable visit to Venice. Mia Battle belted out On My lovely for people to be able to hear Own from Les Misérables while what the students work so hard on College dominates Max Dahlberg-Hughes captivated throughout the year”. music festival again Students from Ellesmere College Tony Coupe, Director of Music at have once again dominated a Ellesmere College said: “We have Shropshire music competition. had tremendous success at the They took 21 first places at the Oswestry Youth Music Festival in Oswestry Youth Music Festival, terms of overall prizes in recent an event organised by Oswestry years. It reflects the hard work and Town Council to showcase the best dedication of our students and staff young musicians across Shropshire, in always striving for the highest Cheshire, Wrexham and North and possible standards. We congratulate Mid Wales. them all on another hugely successful festival. For all your The festival has been running for more than 40 years and “The festival not only enables competitions cover a full range of students to perform at a prestigious music education vocal, instrumental and ensemble event but also to listen to others and equipment music. Many past winners have gone obtain valuable feedback that will & performance on to successful musical careers. support their musical development”.

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Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 37 independent schools mag Ad 90x135mm MAY11.indd 1 6/5/11 13:08:41 Ensuring a key financial relationship adds up The relationship between a school’s trustee treasurer and its bursar/chief financial officer (CFO), is often a complex one. Accountant Alyson Howard offers some tips on how it can be made to work to best effect... There are no legal or regulatory a clear differentiation between everyone is accountable for the provisions that govern how the the professionally qualified or implementation of strategy. interaction between a school experienced CFO and the non- 3. Recruitment – The CFO will bursar/CFO and treasurer should executive treasurer. almost certainly be managed and the ensuing board meetings work, and virtually no guidance There are some key characteristics by the CEO or executive head happen at least six times a on how it can be done well. Some to making a success of this in operations terms, but the year so contact is frequent. But schools’ boards might even find relationship: treasurer would normally they don’t have someone who can be clear to manage carefully be heavily involved in the take on the treasurer role. In a 1. Getting the chemistry right – the differentiation between recruitment of the CFO. Similarly, management and governance. limited company running a school There needs to be an ability one would hope that the view Agree a timetable over the year for profit, one would hope for a to communicate openly and of the CFO might be sought of what responsibility sits where qualified accountant in a finance honestly but you don’t want when appointing a new treasurer so there is no confusion. And director position, but in a charity it things getting too cosy. How can to the board. The treasurer role the relationship should thrive on can be difficult to recruit trustees you get on and support each descriptor tends to focus on mutual challenge and respect. with the right skills to be the board other whilst remaining objective? technical skills, but it should member responsible for finance or And you both need to accept 6. Balance of skills – While both also consider personal and the honorary treasurer role (also that the people will change. The parties should have similar management abilities. sometimes referred to as the non- same treasurer should not be in technical skills the role of the executive finance director). But who the role indefinitely. Ideally a 4. Board representation – The treasurer is largely strategic is responsible for what, and how term of three years, which can treasurer is usually the oversight whereas the CFO do you allocate the work between be renewed for another three at representative on the board for is running the day-to-day you? Without proper planning most. finance issues, particularly in operation and compliance, and and a structured approach, these terms of overarching strategy thus more likely to be a qualified 2. No man is an island – The relationships can be dysfunctional, and approach but that should accountant or school business treasurer and CFO shouldn’t or at worst disastrous for schools. not detract from the CFO’s manager. The treasurer may retreat into a financial silo. knowledge of the specifics. also be a qualified accountant There is no real guidance in Others need to know and Sometimes the devil really is in or financial professional but this area, The Essential Trustee understand what you are the detail. The treasurer might equally could function well even CC3 covers general issues for all wrestling with, and other need to act as an advocate for if not, so long as they have trustees and stresses that the chair trustees and senior leaders the CFO if any communication strong financial literacy and and treasurer each has special cannot abdicate responsibility issues have arisen within the understanding. responsibilities but it does not say because they are ‘not good operation of the school. how to carry these out effectively. with numbers’! Finance should Any well-run independent school These roles and relationships be a servant to, not a slave 5. Staying in touch – How often recognises the significant part differ according to the size and of the organisation. Unfairly, do you meet? Ideally you would that strong financial management complexity of the organisation and the finance professionals have the chance to sit down to and governance plays in its in a smaller school the treasurer sometimes end up carrying go through the finance reports organisation. If the relationship might have a real, hands-on role. the can on difficult financial at least a week before they are between the CFO and treasurer is But what we would hope to see decisions. The board should due to be issued to the board. right, it can really count towards a in most independent schools is act carefully to ensure that And hopefully such pre-meetings school’s success. Pictured: Alyson Howard FCCA DChA CF, Partner Education and Not for Profit, MHA MacIntyre Hudson www.macintyrehudson.co.uk

New Computing and Digital Learning Space Northcote Lodge School, London, with an Apple TV for boys to screen experiences, facilitating a variety of has unveiled its newly re-vamped mirror; a full set of Bluetooth learning styles and accommodating digital learning space complete with headphones, and good ethernet flexible areas of Computing and iMacs, iPads and large rugs. and Wi-Fi connectivity. More Digital Learning such as Digital equipment, including robots and The suite has wooden floors and green screens, is arriving soon. Literacy, Computer Science & desks with plenty of charging Robotics, Digital Design & Media. stations and large, comfy rugs. It The open plan digital learning boasts 18 iMACs, seamlessly linked space is not only loved by all The boys’ input at the planning with the boys’ iPADs, and digital for its looks but is appreciated stage was critical to the creation of learning activities; a large display for providing enhanced user a functional space.

38 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] College to Partnerships open in Egypt celebrated in

Kent College Cairo will officially conference in Cairo recently to open in 2022 with a capacity for announce the new school. parliament 1,500 students. Orascom Development’s ‘O West’ Kent College Cairo will be the third project has been designed to offer School staff from across the UK joined ministers, international school that Kent an integrated town experience shadow ministers, MPs and peers in the House of College has been involved with: including restaurants, shops, sports it has been operating successfully clubs and schools. Kent College Commons last month (February) to celebrate the in Dubai since 2016 and plans to Cairo is set to be part of this thousands of successful partnership projects taking open in Hong Kong. Like its sister community with an investment cost place between state and independent schools. schools, Kent College Cairo will of EGP 500 million and officially reflect the same ethos and values opening in the second half of 2022. The ‘Celebrating Partnerships’ event, hosted by the All-Party where children of all abilities are Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Independent Education, recognised The school will accommodate accepted and supported by a team the diverse range of ways in which schools from different sectors 1,500 students with high quality of specialized trained teachers to work together to create learning and development opportunities education, supported by some 400 support each student’s needs. It will for all pupils and staff involved. Projects include subject support members of staff. The school will implement the STEAM approach in maths, science and modern foreign languages; teacher training; encompass a total of 70 classrooms to pedagogy with British certified setting up and sponsoring new state schools; and careers and higher teachers carrying out the national as well as laboratories, libraries, education workshops and advice. UK curriculum, followed by iGCSE performing arts spaces, sports Speakers at the event included Lord Agnew, parliamentary under- and the IB Diploma will be optional spaces and student collaboration secretary of state for the school system; Layla Moran, education in senior years. areas. spokesperson for the Liberal Democrats; Andrew Lewer MBE MP, chairman of the APPG on Independent Education; and Barnaby Orascom Development’s Mr Nessim said “We are very Lenon, chairman of the Independent Schools Council (ISC). management including Ashraf pleased with our strategic Nessim, Co-CEO of Orascom cooperation with Kent College. We Guests were presented with copies of a report published by the Development Egypt, Kent College are different in what we do and in ISC entitled Celebrating Partnerships, which showcases just a Canterbury’s Executive Head what we call town development in handful of the many meaningful partnerships that exist today. Dr David Lamper held a press all our destinations worldwide. We To read a copy of the ISC’s Celebrating Partnerships report, are probably one of the very few in https://issuu.com/glenncoombsshelleys/docs/myth?fr=sNzQ3YTE2NzYx the world that build towns in every Julie Robinson, ISC chief executive, said: “Working with the sense of the word: houses, hotels, Department for Education, we have been making huge strides to schools, hospitals and services.” develop and strengthen partnership projects between independent and He added “We aim to provide high state schools, which benefit tens of thousands of pupils every year. quality education for Egyptian “Collaborating with local communities and other schools is part of students and create a wholesome the very essence of our schools. We know that when carried out community through the strategic effectively by schools choosing to work together voluntarily to partnership to boost employment achieve clear and specific aims, partnership projects have the potential opportunities and expand economic to unlock new educational experiences for all involved.” growth.” The Beat Goes on – Taal success Over 250 pupils from year 8 to year 13 at Bancroft’s School, Essex, took part in the annual Taal event. Taal means “beat of life” and with its fusion of dancing, music and acting, Taal is more than just another School production, it brings a touch of Bollywood colour and glamour to Bancroft’s. Over 19 years it has grown to become an integral and much anticipated fixture in the School calendar as well as an important part of the School’s cultural life. The event is totally pupil driven with members of the Bancroft’s Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist and Muslim Society (HSBM Society) writing, choreographing and directing the event. The students assume full responsibility for everything, from finding sponsorship from local businesses to sourcing costumes. Taal is a major fund raiser for charities and this year it supported three charities which had been chosen for personal reasons by the pupils: The Anderson School for Autism in Chigwell. Dementia UK and Veerayatan in India. Veerayatan has transformed the lives of thousands of underprivileged children and has also supported rehabilitation and emergency relief programmes in the wake of natural calamities. Closer to home, the Anderson School seeks to give young people with autism the best possible The Taal committee with Mayor of Redbridge Zulfiqar Hussain opportunities for their future. This year Taal raised £25,000.

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 39 The changing face of governorship

At the end of 2019 and after 12 years in position, Michael Griffiths retired as Chairman of Governors at Bolton School, Lancashire. With 33 years of experience serving on the Governing Body (GB), he discusses how the role of governor has changed over the years and what attributes schools should look for when appointing a governor. An ISM Exclusive Q&A...

Firstly, tell us a little about their appointment seriously and proposals, safeguarding, inspections, investment programme costing Bolton School. were prepared to spend the time governance, risk reviews, bursary £25m with no legacy borrowing; the needed to ‘do the job’. This latter fund development, marketing and provision of i-pads to every pupil “Bolton School is an independent aspect has often been a challenge many other relevant topics. They day school in Greater Manchester in School from Year 3 upwards; have been highly successful, and with roots going back to 1516. It as potential governors, with the and the awarding of almost £30m I believe fundamental in enabling consists of separate girls’ and boys’ right skill sets, are often very busy in Bursary funding to 2000 pupils us to properly execute our task as senior and junior schools plus a people. It has perhaps resulted in a over the last 21 years whilst at the Governors. co-ed infant school and nursery. GB with a relatively high proportion same time establishing a Bursary There are approximately 2,400 of alumni, leaving us open to the The second aspect to which Endowment Fund that today stands pupils on a single campus under the criticism of being ‘parochial’. We are I referred was the need to be at over £30m. Crucially, as part of responsibility of a single GB.” conscious of this and to ensure an sustainably financially strong. our strategy to make the school informed and balanced approach affordable, we have also kept our How has the role and We recognised the school needed we have successfully recruited the characteristics and form of a annual fee increase to 2%, for each responsibilities of governor some alumni who have spent of the last 4 years, whilst improving evolved over the last three business, something which did not most, if not all, of their working always sit easily with the role of our offer. decades? career away from the Bolton area being an educational charity. In We also recognised that we were in order to ensure a diversity of “My first governors’ meeting was in the late ‘80s we made the small, an integral part of the Bolton and experience. Another aspect that has January 1987 and it was unusual but important, practical move of wider North West community and in that the whole Board of about differentiated our approach from a changing our financial year-end had a responsibility to become 20 people was interviewing the number of other charities and GBs from the 31st March to the 31st more engaged and improve our final three shortlisted candidates is that whilst every governor must August, to reflect the natural contribution to its greater wellbeing. for the position of Clerk and offer themselves for re-election every business cycle of the school. At We participate with the state Treasurer (Bursar). In my time as a 3 years, there is no limit on how the same time, we recognised that sector in numerous educational governor, I have been involved in many terms they can serve. Whilst virtually all our income derived from partnerships and encourage our the appointment of 5 Heads and 3 we have been conscious of the need fees and that we had no significant students to engage in a wide Bursars. We still retain this format to prevent the Board becoming other means of generating income. range of voluntary activities. Their for the final interview for the Heads stale, we have been equally If we were to make major capital participation is recognised and and Bursar positions, believing the concerned about losing valuable investments and provide bursary celebrated in our annual Community whole GB should take ownership experience and knowledge. funds for pupils in the future, we Awards Evening. Our involvement of these critical appointments. Having focussed on a Board with needed to rethink our finances. in voluntary work was recognised However, we have changed a key the correct skill set it was important Consequently, in the early ‘90s, we in 2017 when the School was element of the process and for the that they had the appropriate devised a simple financial budgeting last 3 appointments have appointed awarded the Queen’s Award for background knowledge, and that model that is still in operation today. professional head-hunters to assist Voluntary Service, the first School in this was continually updated. We We also formed a trading company us rather than engaging a recently the country to win such an award. acknowledged that most of our with the objective of ‘sweating’ In 2019 our work in and with the retired Head to conduct the search the schools’ assets when they were through their professional network. governors were not education community and our extensive experts, and indeed were not not being used for education. The provision of bursaries was rewarded Many other aspects of governance expected to be. Yet increasingly, effective implementation of these when we were named as the TES have, not surprisingly, also changed as more regulations were imposed measures meant we overcame Independent School of the Year”. and these perhaps fall into two and responsibilities added, we a serious financial deficit, and In recent years, you have been broad classifications. Firstly, the were being required to make burgeoning overdraft, to put Chairman of Governors. What have management of the increase in decisions based on our own limited ourselves in the black and capable you found to be the essential regulation and responsibilities knowledge and experience of the of generating positive cash flows. skills required to satisfactorily that has fallen upon schools and educational aspects. To remedy this, Ten years later, that enabled us to fulfil that role? governors over the last 30 years or we introduced a second governors’ consider embarking on an ambitious so. Secondly, the need to ensure meeting at the beginning of each capital investment programme “It’s important to remember that we are sustainably, financially term. This would, ideally, consider and provided a firm sustainable that governors set the ethos and strong so that we can maintain our just two topics and thus would foundation for our bursary culture of the School – that they independence. not suffer the time constraints that endowment. It was important to are its guardians. We should not take a long-term view, to have To address the first of these issues existed in our normal meetings. forget that the GB is ultimately a clear strategy, and a patient, it is important to have a GB ‘fit for The meetings would cover a vast responsible for the School, that disciplined evolutionary rather than the purpose’. We developed a skills array of subjects, such as annual ‘the buck stops with them’. This is revolutionary approach. matrix to ensure that new governors strategy reviews, examinations, a significant responsibility which were appointed on the basis of the operation of our Infant and In practical terms, our success can must be exercised with great skills needed. It was important that Junior Schools, added value, EYFS, be measured in the completion, over skill and care and must never be governors were committed, took fundraising, capital investment the last 12 years, of a major capital abdicated. It is important that you

40 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] The changing face of governorship

have a committed, balanced and candidates who will be interviewed diverse Board whose members have, and selected by the whole GB. between them, the necessary skills This is a challenging period for the to achieve proper governance. It Committee as they must get the is crucial to encourage governors process right in a short period of to have full participation in all time. They may start by having a decisions made. Given how busy ‘beauty parade’ to select ‘head- they often are, it is important to hunters’ or may already know who be flexible and accommodating in they would appoint. The committee the demands placed upon them. would be actively involved in requires a clear plan, continuing surprise. So far, I don’t seem to However, you must also be prepared selecting a longlist, and interviewing determination and rigorous financial have had much spare time, probably to part company if a satisfactory them, from which they would discipline. There are no quick fixes because I have been addressing produce the shortlist to present to accommodation is not achievable. and it must be recognised from things that have been neglected governors.” Governors should have a thorough the outset that the real beneficiary in recent years due to other understanding of the School and You were a beneficiary of the of the strategy will be the school commitments. the challenges it faces and, the direct grant scheme and have several generations hence. But it However, I have spent almost all my Chairman should have a first-class done much to enable Bolton to should not be forgotten that many life being involved in voluntary work working relationship with the Heads offer bursary support to widen Schools today are probably enjoying of some kind, particularly to help and Bursar.” access. Would you like to see a the rewards of benefactors’ foresight in situations where I can use my If a potential governor – hesitating return of the direct grant – much in the past. So now it is our turn to professional skills and experience, about taking on the responsibility lamented by many – or perhaps make a difference for pupils in the and I hope and expect that will – asked your advice about the pros the introduction of a voucher future.” continue. I also hope that I will and cons of the role, what would scheme exchangeable by parents have some more time to pursue my What will you do with your you say? in full settlement of a state school numerous interests and spend more spare time? education or in part-payment of time with my family. But life would “The positives far outweigh the an independent school one? “That’s a question that I’m be boring if new challenges and negatives. Governorship presents frequently asked, much to my opportunities didn’t arise.” a real opportunity to make a “It is very tempting to wish for difference for the benefit of the glory days of the Direct Grant future generations and it is always or even a voucher scheme – both extremely satisfying when you meet would be attractive. However, the Exciting Activity and Field students displaying their talent and reality is that the Direct Grant would skills. A School is a very different probably not be a replica of the old Study Trips in Cornwall environment to that in which most scheme and the voucher scheme governors work, and it can provide would no doubt have aspects that a refreshing intellectual challenge. didn’t satisfy everyone. There would Education has a remarkable and always be the fear that a change continuing multiplier effect that of government, or even a shift of will positively impact upon the opinion in the same government, communities with which the could result in the abolition of students engage throughout the rest this new support. Neither previous of their lives. To have some very Conservative governments, and small beneficial input is extremely certainly not Labour governments, satisfying. Throughout my life have been wholehearted supporters I have found being a volunteer of providing financial support to is an extraordinarily satisfying private education. I assume they don’t see it as a vote winner. It’s experience. Prospective governors clearly a complete travesty that should, however, consider the private education does not receive time commitment as this can be a single penny of taxpayers’ money considerable.” even though parents pay their taxes • The Manor House offers quality courses with personal One of the most significant and the schools themselves make attention tasks of any GB must be the major contributions to GDP. Whilst • Stay in an 18th Century Manor House appointment of a new head. Which I would support any movement to • Sole Occupancy Book Now for recruitment methods did you find restore any financial contribution, • Privately owned centre near Padstow Spring 2021 work best? I would not view it as a long-term • Excellent facilities & equipment Discounts Available! “On receipt of a letter of resignation solution. • Recommended by many Prep. Schools from the Head, the Chairman My view is that independent schools immediately activates a dormant must own the challenge and • Please ask for details appointments committee consisting recognise that if they wish to remain of 4 Senior Governors. They will independent, they must build their For more information please contact us on: 01841 540346 manage the process on behalf own financial resources. This may www.manoractivitycentre.co.uk | [email protected] of the Governors to the point of seem a daunting prospect and is Manor House Activity & Development Centre, St Issey, Wadebridge, PL27 7QB producing a shortlist of ideally 3 certainly a long-term strategy. It

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 41 Teachers’ Pension Scheme – latest

There were 1,171 independent schools in England & Wales in the TPS as at March 2019. Around 100 such schools have applied to leave it, following the Treasury’s decision to raise employers’ contributions in September 2019 from 16.4% to 23.6%. Some schools are now in the throes of industrial action by staff who are fighting to stay in the Scheme after their schools announced withdrawal from it. Other schools have taken the decision to absorb the increased financial burden, others are consulting with staff on the way forward. In this special feature, heads and union leaders reflect on the position...

‘The last thing TPS wanted or needed’ Voice: The Union for Education Professionals has been contacted by a number of members in independent schools whose schools are consulting on leaving the Teachers’ Pension Scheme (TPS), writes General Secretary Deborah Lawson. This was triggered by the Unlike state-funded schools, least a similar level of benefits. It is Treasury’s decision to raise independent schools are not unfair that hard working staff who employers’ contributions in legally required to be members have dedicated their professional September 2019 from 16.4% to of the Teachers’ Pension Scheme, lives to the service of a school 23.6%. This was a government but they do have to enrol staff in should have an impoverished decision which, despite an alternative pension scheme if retirement. representations from teacher they do decide to leave Teachers’ Leaving Teachers’ Pensions unions, including Voice, local Pensions. constitutes a variation to staff government and other employer Unfortunately, alternative schemes contracts (likely to be a detrimental representatives (including from variation) and before doing this, do not have to be of the same type Deborah Lawson the independent sector) went or standard as Teachers’ Pensions. the employer has to consult with ahead. This was actually the last Some schools have opted for the potentially affected employees. It is consultation, Independent thing that the Scheme wanted or basic compulsory auto enrolment important that employers give staff Schools – phased withdrawal from needed. pension, whereas others have full details of the pension scheme the Teachers’ Pension Scheme*, they propose to offer in place of Whilst this increase is being opted for defined contribution existing scheme members working Teachers’ Pensions along with funded in state-funded schools, pensions with some additional in independent schools would be details of the formal consultation independent schools are having benefits, which – unlike TPS – are able to remain as active members period. to cover the full cost themselves, subject to the fluctuations of the of TPS. Although that would be which may be difficult – especially market. This is not just a pensions issue. welcome for them, this would for smaller schools – and several We would prefer independent Schools could have problems with have the disadvantage of creating independent schools are now schools to remain in the Teachers’ staff recruitment and retention if a two-tier pensions system for indicating that they intend to Pension Scheme, and urge them to terms and conditions deteriorate. teachers. The consultation closed opt out of the Teachers’ Pension do so. Ideally, we would hope that Under the terms of the recent on 3 November 2019 and we are Scheme on cost grounds. any alternative schemes offer at Department for Education (DfE) awaiting the results.

*www.teacherspensions.co.uk/news/public-news/2019/09/independent-schools-phased-withdrawal-from-the-teachers-pension-schemeaspx)

New guidance from the government on pensionable allowances

The TPS recently issued a reminder: • Pastoral care • Boarding or library duties “If your school pays allowances to members of the Scheme for • Various sports allowances. additional responsibilities that are an integral part of their teaching role, the allowance is pensionable. If the allowance is for activities Bonuses that are “goodwill” payments, such as a Christmas bonus, are that aren’t part of a member’s employment as a teacher, it is not not be pensionable even when paid to all staff. pensionable and contributions in respect of the allowance are not If it’s determined that the allowances paid are pensionable, this could payable, either by you or the member.” result in large arrears of contributions and interest. NEU’s John Richardson reports that allowances that are Contributions incorrectly deducted from earnings that aren’t pensionable include: pensionable will be refunded to school and members without interest.

42 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] ‘Exiting the Revised TPS is about long-term Viability… says Ben Evans, Headmaster at Edge Grove Prep School in Hertfordshire The decision for Edge Grove decision was not taken lightly, but in the best interests of the School to withdraw from the through careful and considered school and its employees. The revised Teachers’ Pension Scheme consultation with all staff that are replacement pension and salary (TPS) was made very much with members of TPS. It was agreed arrangements have been made as the school’s long-term viability that the school will exit TPS in generous as possible, reflecting in mind. The large increase of September 2020. All staff members how highly regarded the staff is employers’ contributions, from were given pension advice by by the Governors. This was well 16.4% to 23.6% added just under independent experts and had access received by our teachers and is fully £200k to the schools’ annual salary to one to one meetings with an understood. bill, which as a long-term additional HR advisor. The Chair of Governors Unsustainable financial burdens cost, is unsustainable. It is also also carefully explained to staff could force schools to close very clear that inevitably, there will the financial reasons why an exit The NEU are obviously advocating be additional, but yet unknown, from the TPS was being considered, schools to remain in the TPS but increases in the future, which makes what it would mean for the future although they are acting in the best the pension scheme now untenable of the school and what pension interests of their members, they are for many schools like ours. arrangements would replace it. also being very short sighted. The many of the difficulties faced by It is essential, as a standalone prep Staff members were, as one would increased cost of the employers’ schools due to union involvement school, albeit a larger than average expect, initially very concerned at contributions to TPS will place a could have been avoided. No school one (with 525 pupils on roll), that the loss of TPS and put forward a huge and unsustainable financial has withdrawn from the TPS as a the Governors make every effort number of reasons why it should burden on some schools, which quick way to make savings on their to safeguard the future financial be retained together with ways could force them into closure. This salary costs. They have been forced viability of the school. The annual that the school could help to would mean the NEU members into the decision to ensure the surplus is all ploughed back into the make it affordable. Ultimately, would be unemployed and without longevity of their schools whilst also school to ensure that our standard staff across the school have acted an income. seeking the best alternative pension of education including our pupil with complete integrity and as Instead of urging members to resist arrangements for their employees. to teacher ratio, teaching resources committed professionals. They are, their schools recommendations and Unity will achieve the best and facilities are each of the without doubt, the main reason for possibly call for strike action, the outcome highest standard. Prudent financial the school’s continued success and NEU should be working alongside All schools seek to employ the best planning ensures this is possible, as such have a great deal of passion its members’ schools, rather than quality teachers and the unions but with the uncertainty of TPS, and a strong connection with the against them, to find a solution, exist to protect their members’ this would have been in jeopardy. school. which ensures their members can interests. It seems quite natural continue to work in financially viable Not a decision to be taken lightly The Governors, throughout the that both parties should be working schools for many years to come. As is the case for many schools process, made it very clear that together to achieve the best that have chosen to withdraw, the they were acting, as custodians, In truth, it is without doubt that possible outcomes.

Ben Evans, Headmaster at Edge Grove Prep School Challenging proposals to leave the TPS As the number of employers proposing to leave the TPS increase, so does the number of successful NEU campaigns to stay, writes John Richardson, National Education Union (NEU) National Official, independent sector. NEU members always seek members. Being threatened with the from small preps to large HMC constructive dialogue with their sack is an eye-opener for many in schools. Some school governors have employers with a view to reaching their relationship with their employer. sympathetically listened to and been amicable agreement wherever Unilaterally breaking contracts and persuaded by staff argument. In possible. leaving the TPS is forcing many NEU others, they have made pragmatic However, for many independent members in the independent sector decisions in the face of threatened or school employers the decision to to respond in kind. NEU members actual NEU industrial action. That said, we anticipate that leave the Teachers’ Pension Scheme are now taking the unprecedented The fact that more than 90% of numbers consulting on leaving are is a choice, not a necessity. It has steps to consider, prepare for, and schools remaining in the scheme for likely to increase this year. Many a hefty price – paid for by their take industrial action. at least a year gives substance to the employers stated that they were teachers in pension in retirement Employers need to think long and argument that the school can afford adopting “a wait and see” policy in and overall remuneration. hard about the potential damage to the increase. the first year. Employers are fearful Without agreement, many the business, before embarking on Notwithstanding this, clearly, there of jumping the wrong side of the employers are proposing to break such detrimental changes to one of are schools that genuinely cannot line on a key issue in recruiting and contracts of employment; to sack the mainstays of the success of the afford it. Though, it would not be retaining teachers. their teachers; and re-engage on school – the teaching staff. unreasonable to think that schools significantly worse terms. NEU members have successfully in that position would leave at the Many major employers, such as Being forced out of the TPS is challenged proposals to leave the first opportunity after the increase the Girls’ Day School Trust, are a deal-breaker for many NEU TPS, in workplaces ranging in size took effect in September 2019. remaining in the TPS. Pictured: John Richardson, National Education Unton (NEU) National Official, independent sector

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 43 Changing FACES... ISA Chief Executive Neil Roskilly: “On the TPS, one thing that has become increase because it has money in the bank. “The vast majority of Heads and Governors clear is that some of the unions have seen it Those reserves of course pay for the growing are working closely with their staff in taking as an opportunity to get formal recognition number of bursaries for disadvantaged an honest approach to the pensions issue, in independent school staffrooms. children that schools are offering. based on a sustainable business case for the “Close relations with unions can be “There’s even talks of strikes in a tiny school. helpful, but there have been some cases of belligerence. We’ve seen examples of number of schools, and that’s a direct threat “None want to put up fees for parents if unions claiming on behalf of school staff to a school’s long-term sustainability if they can help it, or reduce the number of that a school can afford the full pensions parents claim back fees for missed classes. bursaries they offer.” Industrial Action ~ what a head told parents Colfe’s School in London is facing a rolling series of day strikes by some staff protesting at the school’s decision on TPS. Head Richard Russell wrote to parents when the industrial action started earlier this month (March).

Richard Russell, headmaster, Colfe’s School

Dear Parents I wanted to write to you in more detail about the industrial dispute which has arisen at Colfe’s recently. Many of you will have seen the article in the Sunday Times over the weekend. Although such publicity is never welcome, the coverage was balanced and reasonable. I hope that the following may be of interest and enable you to understand the respective dilemmas of the teachers and the governors. I hasten to add, however, that I do not expect it to mitigate in any sense the inevitable disruption that strike action will generate for you as parents. As you know from my previous communication on this matter, the dispute has arisen because the governors initiated a consultation last September into whether or not the school should remain in the Teachers’ Pension Scheme (TPS). This was extremely unsettling for staff who stand to lose the prospect of guaranteed income in retirement. The proposed alternative to the TPS was a defined contribution scheme into which the school would contribute 16% of salary. In accordance with the consultation process, Colfe’s teachers elected representatives who worked very hard through the Autumn Term to find ways in which remaining in the TPS could be justified and met five times with governors. Just before half term, however, the governors reached a provisional decision to remain within the TPS for another two years, but to switch to a defined contribution scheme in September 2022. An employer contribution rate of 18.5% was proposed, supplemented by life assurance and critical illness insurance, taking the total value of the package to 20%. During this period staff have been scrupulously professional, as ever, and prioritised the care for your children. The proposed solution would enable staff to remain in the TPS for another two years and switch to a defined contribution scheme two years hence which is, if viewed objectively, offered on advantageous terms. Parents will of course be able to make the comparison with their own pension arrangements. In the long term, or indeed in the medium term, I don’t think it is controversial to predict that the TPS will become unaffordable for the majority of independent schools. More than 100 independents have already left the scheme and many more are going through a period of consultation, as Colfe’s continues to do. The main difficulty is that the employer contribution is funded by the taxpayer in state sector schools whereas in independent schools it comes straight out of the fees that you pay. The annual fee at Colfe’s this year (senior school) is £17,604. Following the decision of the Government Actuary to increase the contribution level from 16.4% to 23.6% last September, just under 9% (about £1500) of that fee goes into employer contributions to the TPS. That means, across the school as a whole, that we are writing a cheque to the TPS for £1.45 million on net fee income of £16.7 million before we have paid salaries or paid for the heating of the classrooms. Governors have concluded that that is unsustainable. And it’s not even as if the contributions are funding the teachers on whose behalf they are paid. The money goes straight back out to fund the retirement of teachers who have already retired and who are living longer than they used to. Nationwide the annual shortfall between income and expenditure on the TPS was about £3.5 billion last year alone, so future increases above 23.6% seem inevitable if deeper deficit is to be avoided. I appreciate that this is a very difficult situation for pupils and parents. We are doing everything we can to mitigate the impact but I must ask you, on behalf of the governors, to bear with us. I would also ask you to remember that the teachers who are going on strike tomorrow are acting out of principle in defence of a benefit which they have come to regard as a sacrosanct part of their remuneration. Many of them have become my personal friends in the course of the last 15 years and I can assure you that they have not taken this decision lightly. Once again, and on behalf of the governors, I am extremely sorry for the disruption that this must be causing to you all. I will continue to do all that I can to effect a resolution in the days ahead. With best wishes Richard Russell Headmaster

44 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Changing FACES... Celebrating the Sisters’ legacy Changing Places... Farnborough Hill School, and we will continue to celebrate Hampshire, has celebrated the their legacies for generations to Sisters of the RCE* with a special come. The fact that our girls can The Downs part of The University of Exeter, ceremony to mark the contributions Preparatory graduating with a BEd (Hons) write their own Farnborough Hill of five of the Sisters to the School, Bristol, has and was an active member of the story alongside that of their House development of the School. announced the University Officers’ Training Corps Patron is a marvellous thing and I appointment of Mrs during this time. Most recently she At the beginning of this academic hope they treasure their books for Debbie Isaachsen as has completed a Master’s degree year the five school Houses were years to come.’ the next Headteacher of The Downs in Educational Leadership from renamed after five RCE Sisters: * Religious of Christian Education is Preparatory School from September the University of Buckinghamshire. Bickford, Dutertre, McCormack, a Roman Catholic religious institute 2020. A keen sportswoman, Debbie Mostyn and Roantree. This was a of religious sisters founded for Debbie is currently Head of enjoys skiing, netball, walking and change driven by members of the Heatherton School, part of the embraces challenging outdoor Year 7 Social Justice Group who the education of girls in post- Berkhamsted Schools Group, where pursuits. She will be joined at The questioned why, in a girls’ school, Revolutionary France which now she sits on the executive team. Downs by her husband Alex and the Houses were named after male operates schools internationally. Previously to this she has been Head their two children Bella (15) and reformation saints who actually of the Lower School and the Deputy Oscar (13). had no connection to the School. Head of the Pre-Prep at Cheltenham Marcus Gunn will continue to They felt that the Houses should College Prep School. provide leadership to The Downs be named after the inspirational Debbie attended The College of St until his retirement after 19 years at women who had a pivotal role Mark and St John in Plymouth, then the end of the Summer Term 2020. in shaping the School during its illustrious history. Alexandra Neil, Head, commented, ‘It is wonderful The Stephen Perse St Catharine’s College, Cambridge, to be able to celebrate these strong Foundation, a family where he also completed his PGCE and inspirational women who were of independent while representing the university and instrumental in developing the schools in Cambridge his country in rugby league, winning School to make it the success it and Saffron Walden, a Blue. is today. I am thrilled their stories has announced the will not be lost in the mists of time appointment of its new Principal, Richard has served as a governor at Richard Girvan. both King’s House School (a nursery, Pictured: Sisters Mannion, Rennie and McCormack cutting pre-prep and preparatory school in a cake commemorating the launch of the House Books Richard is currently the Surmaster Richmond-upon-Thames) and All (Head of the Senior School) at St Saints’ Catholic College (formerly Paul’s School in London, a position Sion-Manning RC Girls’ school, an he has held since 2012. He will join Stephen Perse in August 2020. 11-16 senior school, which recently became co-educational). Richard has worked in education for 17 years as a teacher of Richard will succeed Tricia Kelleher, mathematics, as pastoral and current Principal of the Stephen boarding house tutor, and coach Perse Foundation, who announced of athletics and rugby. Raised in her retirement following 19 years in Belfast, Richard read Engineering at the role last October. Solar success story

Northfleet School for Girls in with 8% more electricity exported Gravesend, with the support of to the grid rather than consumed Heads Hunted Kent County Council, has made on site. The installation itself was some bold changes and taken also ‘very quick and simple,’ as Andy Among the upcoming head responsibility for its carbon remarks, “the panels were installed footprint. during the summer holidays and and principal appointments: took a total of just under three In 2018, Northfleet made history weeks.” Brackenfield School Yorkshire by implementing amongst one The cost of the technologies was KIrkstone House School Lincolnshire of the largest solar installations in the country and also upgraded covered by government funded, Rupert House School Oxfordshire their lighting to LED; both projects not-for-profit organisation, Salix Finance, in the form of an interest- pioneered internally by the Facilities free loan. The loan is of no expense If you would like mention made of your upcoming head or Manager, Andy Jarett. The council to the school and provides the principal appointment for which applications are sought supported throughout the funding upfront capital needed to purchase please let us know – there is no charge for a listing. and project process, with a and install the technologies; the remarkable result that has left both financial savings then made from parties extremely proud. News items, contributions, comments and the technology are then used to suggestions are always welcomed by the editor. With 681 panels now installed, repay the loan. Once repaid, the the overall percentage of total site school goes on to benefit from the Please email to: power provided by solar is 30%, savings first-hand. [email protected] www.salixfinance.co.uk

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 45 Connect Catering Crowned Second in The Sunday Times ‘Best Companies to Work For’ List After being named number one in 2019, the named The Sunday Times second best mid-sized regular improvements, Connect Catering recently family-run contract caterer, Connect Catering, has company to work for in the UK! We continually included a new health and wellbeing element to once again surpassed mid-sized companies across strive for excellence to make Connect even the annual conference and launched a progression the UK to take the second spot in this year’s The better for our teams, clients and customers and course to pinpoint chef managers that are ready Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For. following our first place in 2019 we are delighted for the next step, equipping them with the skills Showcasing the best companies in the entire to be consistently achieving our goals. To be in they need to succeed. country, the prestigious Sunday Times list the top two for two years in a row is better than Louise Laver adds: “The Sunday Times survey all begins with the ‘8 factors of workplace we’d ever imagined and it’s the icing on the provides us with invaluable feedback to keep engagement’ survey in which Connect Catering cake that we’ve accomplished this in Connect came 2nd nationally for staff ‘Wellbeing’ and 3rd Catering’s 30th year.” moving Connect Catering forward. It has shown for ‘My Team’ and ‘Giving Something Back’. Taking part in The Sunday Times competitive us how highly engaged and motivated every single member of our team is to deliver the very Speaking about this achievement, Louise Laver, survey each year is a company-wide decision best food and service. We’ll be looking closely at Joint Managing Director, Connect Catering made by Connect Catering’s 450 employees says: “We are absolutely thrilled to have been who are based across 74 sites spanning from this year’s results to see what we can improve on Birmingham to Worthing. even further.” Kate Bendall, Joint Managing Director adds: “For Connect Catering to stay at the top we can’t “Every year we ask all of our staff if they’d like rest on our laurels, we’ve got to keep driving to be involved in The Sunday Times 100 Best forward and looking at how we can nurture the Companies to Work For list and after coming first amazing skills our staff have. Looking after your last year it was a resounding yes. When we started staff is such an important value and so it makes taking part we set ourselves a goal to reach the a huge difference for our clients to see they are top ten by our 10th year, We are only at year nine and look at what we’ve already achieved – in the employing a contract caterer who wholeheartedly top ten 5 times!” lives for this every day.” This year’s findings highlighted training, nurturing Founded in 1989, Connect Catering is a forward- staff and strong communication skills as core thinking fresh food contract caterer delivering values that play an important role in Connect bespoke catering solutions to independent schools Catering’s recipe for success. Continuing to make and other clients.

For more information on Connect Catering visit www.connectcatering.co.uk

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46 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] October 2019

February 2020 online

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Schools featured in this issue include: Abingdon Prep School Dolphin School Jersey College for Girls St. Benedict’s School Abingdon School Downs Preparatory School Kent College St. Edward’s School Ashville Prep School Durham School King Edward’s Witley St. Margaret’s School Bancroft’s School Edge Grove School King William’s College St. Mary’s Music School Barnard Castle School Ellesmere College Kingsley School Stamford Endowed Schools Bedford School Farnborough Hill School Lewes Old Grammar School Stamford High School Beech Grove School Felsted School Northcote Lodge School Stephen Perse Foundation Bolton School Framlingham College Princess Helena College Strathallan School Bradford Grammar School Froebelian School Ratcliffe College Stroud School Christ College Giggleswick School Roedean School Truro School Cobham Hall Gordonstoun Junior School Royal Hospital School Wellington School Colfe’s School Haberdashers’ Aske’s School for Girls Sherborne School West Buckland School Dauntsey’s School Hutcheson’s Grammar School Solihull School Winterfold School

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