April 2018

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Choose with confidence, our knowledge and support make the FORD PEUGEOT VAUXHALL APPROVED SUPPLIERS difference, call today! In this issue... 05 Ethical Leadership innovative programme, meaningful qualification 08 Reforming 11+ Examinations UCAS style application idea 10 Destructive Pressures on Teachers how to fight back against the risks 18 Technology & Teenage Mental Health conference shares ideas & experiences 20 Moving On – Choosing a Senior School are children given too much say? Strictly Victorian! 24 Profile Farlington School, Sussex, Prep 6 travelled back in time to 1851 to experience a day in a in conversation with Louise Salmond Smith typical Victorian schoolroom. The girls, aged ten and eleven, spent the day in Victorian 28 Lives Devoted to Playing & Teaching Music dress and discovered what it was like to be a Q&A with three school staff Victorian school child.

The girls were expected to sit through lessons 40 Avoiding the Horror Stories in silence and only speak when spoken to. getting guardianship right They covered subjects such as the British Empire, maths with imperial measures and 44 Educating the Engineers of Tomorrow how to write perfect copperplate handwriting. They read lessons from a Victorian reading why schools should start at Year 3 book and they learnt how to sew for their sampler. Lunch consisted of pasties, sandwiches, fruit and biscuits and at break Plus they were able to roll hoops, skip together 06 Growth mindset conference – diary date and play a game of marbles. 09 Charity Commission appoints manager This hands-on historical experience fits into 12 Students inspire huge eco-savings the girls’ history curriculum which is currently focusing on the Victorian era. They are 14 Changing Faces...Changing Places... learning about Victorian domestic life, the 19 Teachers setting exams – latest from Ofqual contrasting lifestyles of the rich and poor, the 26 Science special growth of urbanisation and the achievements 28 Music & Drama Focus Feature of the era. 34 Does technology hinder pupils’ interpersonal skills – new research 36 Sports Focus Feature Rock Fest 42 Catering Focus Feature Dauntsey’s School, Wiltshire, staged its annual Rockfest concert to a sell-out audience. Nine acts from the Lower School and twelve from the Upper School took to the stage to perform a wide range of numbers, all exhibiting great talent and enthusiasm.

Kester Sims, Head of Music Technology, said:“Rockfest goes from strength to strength 36 Sports 42 Catering and this year the audience was treated to an exciting evening of great rock talent, supported by our own expert lighting and The Digest; Heads Hunted; Editorial Advisory Board; Key Personnel; sound team of pupils.” Contact Us pages 46 & 47. Is Your School Mentioned? A-Z on page 47

Independent Schools Magazine 3 Library receives planning permission Planning permission has been Conversely, the eastern elevation is secured from Wiltshire Council for to be glazed in order to maximise a new library building on behalf of daylight and views across the St Mary’s Calne. orchard. The library entrance will be located in the centre of the Teacher wins top award The library, designed by Woods solid wall, providing clear views on Bagot, is a stand-alone pavilion A talented York teacher has won a Harriet runs Psychology master arrival of the internal space and modelled on an orangery, with an top award for her work to engage classes, a Psychology Summer the landscape beyond. articulated timber roof structure students and the public with School and has collaborated on a supported on columns that floats The layout of the internal space science. residential ISSP course in the Lake over a more substantial masonry has also been well thought Bootham School’s Head of District teaching Psychology skills shell. Meanwhile, the roof forms through to reflect the most Psychology, Harriet Ennis, received for success, well-being and peak an internal cluster of tree-like forward-thinking ideas in the honour from the British performance. structures, bringing the orchard education. Psychological Society (BPS) for She also presents public lectures as into the building and blurring Public Engagement, largely in Headmistress, Dr Felicia Kirk, part of Bootham School’s recital the boundary between inside recognition of her work with the commented: “The new library will room lecture series and as part and outside spaces while at the be a lively academic hub of the York Independent State Schools same time using the surrounding Partnership (ISSP). of the Activities programme at school – a place which will instil Bootham, she runs ‘Psychology enclosure to create the sense of a a love of reading, research and Psychology is a challenging science walled garden. experiments for seniors’ once a learning for staff and pupils alike and Harriet has been teaching it to week. The western elevation of the and will encourage exploration able students as young as 11 from library, which faces a service road, and the pursuit of knowledge, across York, as well as to the wider Bootham’s A-level psychologists will be solid in order to mitigate as well as collaboration and the community. also recently entered The University noise from the access route. sharing of ideas.” The York ISSP is recognised as the of York’s research competition and best of its kind in the UK, having won. Students designed their own delivered over 5000 opportunities research, collected and analysed their for enrichment to ‘able & interested’ data and presented it in the form of students since its inception in 2006. a scientific poster.

Daily Deep Maintenance Security Gardening & Cleaning Cleaning Landscaping Going co-ed The Governors and Senior Leadership Current parents were consulted Team of Farlington School, Sussex, and were overwhelmingly have made the decision to welcome supportive of the proposal. boys into its Reception Class from Louise Higson, Headmistress September 2018. said:“ This is a significant and The move towards a co-educational exciting change for the School. Prep School will be gradual and The Farlington ethos of inspiring existing classes in the Prep and and educating the individual will Pre-Prep will remain girls-only. Only the Nursery and Reception class always remain. We know that in September 2018 will have both girls and boys learn in different boys and girls. There is no change ways and this will be reflected to the arrangements in the Senior in our teaching methods in the School or Sixth Form. classroom.”

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4 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent school’s initiative soon available to all Ethical leadership – innovative programme & meaningful qualification for pupils All schools recognise effort and industry, community contribution. But how can being a good person be quantified, measured, and develop into an accredited qualification which means something outside school? Jo Owens - a member of the senior leadership team and Director of Ethical Leadership at Lichfield Cathedral School in Staffordshire – discusses her innovative Ethical Leadership Programme which will soon be available to other schools across the country... From my office window I can 13. This marked the culmination of about opportunities for community see the three spires of Lichfield many months of work, writing and involvement and we have built links Cathedral, the resident peregrines rewriting our fledgling programme. with Support Staffordshire, Samuel setting up their annual nest, and a Our first challenge was to define Johnson Community Hospital, and few hundred Cathedral School pupils what we meant by ethical leadership. Co-op Central England, to facilitate making their way to our weekly this further. presentation assembly. Many of The leadership bit was fairly straightforward; the definition of Our pupils’ efforts to support them will be awarded certificates of personal statements for university ethical was far harder. We felt we our school community and those recognition for sporting endeavours, applications or a talking point instinctively knew what it meant, beyond school are renewed and academic effort, and service to the during interviews, helping them to but we needed a way to articulate redoubled because they feel valued community. With the exception of and can recognise for themselves stand out and be remembered. the spires and the birds of prey, I’m it clearly. You can imagine that the importance of ethical leadership. The world needs ethical leaders and totally aware that none of this is meetings discussing this, when a They have developed the ability we can’t keep this to ourselves. Our specific to my school. member of the clergy is on the team, became wide ranging and to articulate their experience and Ethical Leadership Programme will Of course all schools recognise effort philosophical debates. In the end we leadership skills, and to link this to a soon be available for all schools to and industry. Of course we all value cut through all the whimsical detail shared ethical purpose. set up and run. We can even visit to community contribution. Without and decided on our definition. As well as the clear benefits talk you through the practicalities. exception, educators know that our Register your interest in becoming Ethical conduct is doing what is for personal development and pupils are more than a list of grades, an early adopter by emailing right because you know it to be so. self-confidence, pupils’ ELP irrespective of the way external portfolios are an excellent focus for [email protected] judgements are formed. Each pupil has an ethical leadership portfolio to help them collect And yet how do we quantify being evidence of having achieved each a good person; living a good criterion. Pupils are taught how to life? How does a school go about conduct peer reviews and trained in measuring and recognising such self-reflection: an essential skill for ephemeral qualities? How do we later life. support our young people as they develop into tomorrow’s leaders? We also place a heavy emphasis on the concept of ‘leading from At Lichfield Cathedral School, our the back’; not all of our leadership question became: is it possible to recognition takes the form of reflect all of this in an accredited specific roles or responsibilities. The qualification with real currency house system and school council beyond our walls? in particular create opportunities This was the challenge we set for older pupils to work with ourselves three years ago when the younger ones, helping to we approached SSAT about their demonstrate the behaviour and Student Leadership Accreditation. ethos we would like to perpetuate. We particularly wanted a programme And beyond this, we encourage Rosehill have been supplying quality that would reflect the Christian our sixth formers to spend part of contract furniture for over three decades. distinctiveness of our cathedral their non-contact time supporting We have products to fit all areas of your school including: school in the form of the rather younger pupils in lessons and Durable poly classroom chairs in more secular description, ‘ethical mentoring those who need it. · adult & junior sizes values’, and SSAT were happy for us We had long suspected that some · Classroom tables & exam desks to modify their existing programme of our quieter pupils were involved · Lab stools and swivel base chairs to suit our needs. in remarkable things outside school; · Staff room and common room furniture In October 2017 we launched our now they are far more likely to share · Breakout area tables and chairs school-wide Ethical Leadership these with us. We are seeing whole- · Lockers and changing room benches · Cafeteria furniture Programme, beginning with our family engagement, not simply · Office furniture and filing cabinets three year olds in early years, and limited to the pupils themselves. ending with our oldest pupils in year Parents regularly email to tell us To discuss your requirements or for advice Jo Owens has been teaching for 15 years and is an advocate for values-based education. She is and quotations please contact Rosehill on an organiser of this year’s national character education conference #CharacterEd2018. Jo can 0161 485 1717 or view www.rosehill.co.uk be contacted via her school’s email or social media @LichfieldCSchl, or via her own Twitter account @joanneowens.

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 5 “I Can’t Do It…Yet” Dame Katherine Grainger DBE to headline Growth Mindset Conference at Kingston Grammar School

Great Britain’s most successful the Economist’s Books of the Year female Olympian, Dame Katherine in 2016; chartered psychologist Grainger DBE, is coming to and director of InnerDrive, Bradley Kingston Grammar School Busch, leading expert on how on Wednesday 7th November psychological research can best Winning design 2018 as the keynote speaker at help students and teachers think, the third annual KGS national learn and perform; Jonnie Noakes, Sixth form student Florence School Headmaster, Mark Ronan. Colbeck has produced a winning conference, focusing this year on Head of Teaching and Learning at The design was then laser cut into design for the entrance foyer at the importance of developing a Eton College; Chris Hildrew, Head core-ten steel and positioned in growth mindset. Titled “I Can’t the new Pocklington School, Teacher at Churchill Academy and the entrance to the new building. Do It…Yet” the conference has Yorkshire, Art and Design author of ‘Becoming a Growth Florence’s intricate drawing is a been organised by KGS Head Technology Centre. Mindset School’; Dr Pippa Busch, take on the Pocklington School of Wellbeing Nick Forsyth in chartered psychologist specialising After numerous designs were crest with a nod to both art and conjunction with InnerDrive, the in Child Development and submitted by pupils of all year design in the written expression leading UK mental skills company. Educational Psychology. Themes groups, Florence’s design was ‘inspiring creative minds’. Her The conference is aimed at teachers to be discussed include: selected from a shortlist of ten by drawing showed great accuracy and educators and will host • What does growth mindset in the architect of the new building, and skill which particularly expert national and international schools look like? Simon Mitchell, and Pocklington impressed the judges. speakers including psychologists Pictured: Pocklington School sixth form student Florence Colbeck, with Steve Ellis, Head of Design and Dan and academics as well as Dame • How can schools develop Cimmermann, Head of Art. Katherine Grainger DBE. growth mindset, character and resilience? Speakers include Lucy Crehan, international education consultant • How can teachers help Political careers event and author of ‘Cleverlands - The disengaged students with a Students from King’s Ely Senior The guests were asked not to Secrets Behind Success’, one of fixed mindset? and Ely College joined forces for represent any particular personal or an innovative Political Careers party political viewpoint, but they Event. all spoke briefly to the students about their careers and different The event saw Year 9 and Year roles in Government. This was 12 students from both schools followed by a Q&A session. The coming together to engage with pupils then broke into assigned local political representatives and groups before undertaking a to participate in a task exploring Government spending task, where Government spending. groups of Year 9 students from both schools, accompanied by a The event took place at Ely College Sixth Form student, were asked and was attended by South East to allocate Government spending Cambridgeshire MP Lucy Frazer, according to how they believe Cambridgeshire and Peterborough spending should be distributed. It Mayor James Palmer and local proved fascinating to see which councillors Lis Every, Sheila Friend- areas of Government expenditure Smith, Anna Bailey and Tom Hunt. each group deemed priorities.

To book your tickets go to: www.trybooking.co.uk/DHG

6 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] International taster An international delegation of Some of the school’s star musicians visitors from 13 different countries and vocalists then performed a short has been learning more about life in concert in the Blue Gallery, including a North of England boarding school. a song last sung at the war graves in Ypres to remember the school’s 145 Sixteen agents from as far away as boys and five staff who were killed Mexico and Brazil to Vietnam and in the Great War. Japan spent the day at Barnard The day ended with dinner back Castle School, in County Durham. Pictured: Students from Barnard Castle School perform before international education at the school’s Victorian panelled agents at Bowes Museum, accompanied by director of music Simon Dearsley They toured the boarding facilities, dining room. observed lessons, saw facilities for to promote the school and the questions and it was gratifying to sport including the shooting range Mr Jackson explained: “Students region in their home countries. It hear so many positive comments and watched a performance of who board at Barney are an integral is important that they visit and from the visitors about the school, the junior musical. In the evening, and valued part of our diverse get a taste of life at Barney so the museum and the local area. the visitors, accompanied by school community and we welcome they can then make an informed In particular they highlighted how headmaster Tony Jackson and all boys and girls from many countries and accurate recommendation to engaging our pupils were, how the school’s senior leaders, went across the world. prospective pupils and their families. fondly they spoke of their school next door to the Bowes Museum “Our agent partners play an “Our students enjoyed showing and how at ease they were with for a drinks reception. important role in helping us them around and answering their adult visitors”. WLSA membership Merchiston Castle School, developing cultural understanding to take part. Already, pupils have leadership is important and dealing Edinburgh, has been accepted as a and exchanging innovative ideas and been invited to attend South with the pressures of getting into member of the prestigious World experiences. Korea for a conference on Human top universities. We will also have a college fair with ten leading Leading Schools Association after Merchiston joins other UK schools Condition. American universities. There will also successfully completing a rigorous such as Cheltenham Ladies College, WSLA comments that the be a wonderful sports programme inspection visit and application Eton College, Harrow, Marlborough conference in South Korea “will led by Harvard basketball player process. College, Millfield, Oakham, Oundle, discuss issues such as how to handle alumni Zena Edosomwan that Tonbridge School and Winchester. The WLSA Foundation has created stress and anxiety, the role of social consists of daily basketball, an international network of Membership offers pupils some media and technology in the lives swimming, football, golf, yoga and secondary schools with the aim of exceptional opportunities in which of students, why cross cultural ping pong.”

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 7 Is an UCAS-style application system what the independent sector needs to reform 11+ exams? Stephen Lehec, Head Master at Kingston Grammar School, argues that an UCAS-style school admissions system could provide the much-needed panacea for students, parents and schools facing the uncertain ‘free for all’ caused by the current 11+ system.

I have been a Head Master for From the schools’ perspective, the to understand why they may be wellbeing to be dragged around ten years and Head at Kingston current system is also fraught with tempted to renege on that offer. eight or ten schools and sit multiple Grammar School for almost four. real risks. Unable to forecast with Every school wants to be a popular entry tests. Limiting the number Throughout this time, I have seen any degree of certainty how many first-choice school but that dream of schools able to be applied for first-hand how the lottery of the children will start in September becomes a potential nightmare if would be hugely beneficial to all. current 11+ admissions process can – because parents can make any it comes true and more parents Revising the current system will, of have a profound and often negative number of applications and even accept places than the school can course, cost money; to some, too, impact on students, their parents accept multiple offers – they always physically cope with. Some schools having a centralised admissions and their chosen independent make far more offers than there and their sites can cope better system will run counter to the schools. are places. If, as the acceptance than others with what is commonly ethos of independence. But what deadline approaches, schools realise referred to as a bulge year. Some Kingston Grammar School is alternative do we have? To they do not have the capacity to cannot – and no one school can situated in an area of south continue with the current lottery, make good on those offers, they consistently have higher intakes west London where there is high where schools could only guess at may start to withdraw them. In than planned without serious demand for independent school effect, that means schools could be redevelopment. One also has demand and then compensate for a places, causing fierce competition forced to operate on a ‘first-come- to ask: ‘Is that what the parents lean year by being overly ambitious and ‘conveyor belt’-style exams first-served’ basis even before the signed up to anyway? A bigger the next? as a result. Like most schools in admissions deadline is reached. school with bigger classes?’ the area, we are hugely over- At the moment it’s a gamble subscribed and regularly receive The result, of course, is that parents Of course, schools have a duty to for both schools and parents over 800 applicants for around 100 who think they have a guaranteed the current students and parents because there is no transparency. school places at 11+. Due to this place for their child may suddenly as well as to their new intake to A UCAS-style arrangement that competitive environment, it would find that they haven’t. Naturally, ensure that their finite resources simultaneously prioritised and not be considered unusual for a they are furious – and who can can adequately meet the demand. narrowed options would give 10-year-old student to sit anything blame them? The lack of a coherent Resources, whether physical, parents some degree of certainty between four and twelve separate system and the admissions ‘free for financial or less tangible, need to that their children were likely to be exams in the course of the 11+ all’, though, means many schools be protected if all students are to accepted by their preferred schools admissions process. have little choice. They are forced receive the quality of education as long as they met the criteria, and into this unsatisfactory situation that their parents have signed up to schools a reasonable indication that This is one of the central reasons because the lack of a transparent and are paying for. parents were seriously considering why I have become convinced that system – as there is for universities them. It would not be perfect but it we need to overhaul the system How do we fix this system that or local authorities –to move to would be a good start. Many more and replace it with a university- limps along, from year to year, second, third or fourth choice thousands of students go through style applications process in which and decade to decade, and causes preferences means schools have the UCAS and the maintained parents prioritise their choices unnecessary stress to all involved? to protect their own admissions sector cycle annually than and students aren’t forced to sit The answer thus far has been to numbers in such a drastic manner. limitless entrance exams. just get on with it and continue independent school admissions; The situation is exacerbated by to stick your educated finger in while they are not without their The psychological impact on those schools who are not members the air, making the best guess pitfalls and occasional errors, the students cannot be underestimated: of school associations and who possible based on past and current practice is transparent and largely sitting one exam is difficult may not have to adhere to the trends. However, a system for effective. Students sit a single test enough but to have to sit multiple stipulated guidelines – meaning, independent schools that was or set of exams and their offers versions of similar exams over too, that they may be less upfront modelled on the well-established are based on clear criteria such as and over again could potentially with parents about potential and successful UCAS arrangement, achievement or location. be catastrophic if the student capacity issues. Similarly, parents that stamps out the worst abuses does not have the maturity or Of course it will cost schools who, against advice, sit their child and is transparent for all parties, emotional awareness to cope. It’s money to set up but they will for eight, ten or even more schools, could be a good starting point. a big ask of any 10-year-old and is save money on marketing, save an often indicate to many of them Schools would be able to allocate compounded by the fact that it is awful lot of time on guesswork, that they are their first choice, places on a preferential rather than often unclear why children ‘pass’ remove a significant amount of understandably hedging their bets. a first-come-first-served basis and some and ‘fail’ others. It works out stress for the parents and, much give parents a clearer indication of fine, of course, if the child passes It is easy to understand why more importantly, for the children whether their son or daughter will for a school they really want to schools offer over and above their involved. We owe it to them secure a place. attend but not if they pass for one actual capacity because they have to try and fix what is currently they, and their parents, considered no idea who actually wants to It would also reduce stress among an unhealthy, imprecise and as a ‘practice’. accept that offer; equally, we have children. It can’t be good for their unsustainable 11+ system.

8 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Charity Commission appoints interim manager

The Charity Commission, the She will have all the powers regulator of charities in England and duties of a trustee, to the and Wales, has announced that it exclusion of the trustees, in respect has appointed an interim manager of a number of safeguarding to Ampleforth Abbey and the related matters. St Laurence Education Trust as Emma is a specialist in charity law a result of continued concerns and education, working with a about the extent to which current number of independent schools South African adventure Pupils from Lewes Old Grammar songs, dances and drama sketches safeguarding risks to pupils at the and religious organisations across School (LOGS), Sussex, jetted alongside their South African schools run by the charities are the country and she leads a team off to South Africa last month counterparts. being adequately managed. of people who are experts in (March) as part of their annual safeguarding. The adventure also featured The Commission opened a statutory exchange scheme. visits to several of the country’s inquiry into both charities in Emma and her team are in place to 32 students in Years 11 to 13 were most significant cultural and November 2016 to investigate the support and guide the trustees and specially chosen for the trip to charities’ trustees’ approach to to provide strategic leadership on geographical landmarks. Pupils Ballito, South Africa in recognition safeguarding and their handling matters relating to safeguarding, toured the Karkloof Canopy to take of their continued contributions to of allegations of abuse. The ensuring the charities have the in the brilliant vistas and see a 20 school life. Commission is not satisfied that proper framework they require to metre waterfall up close, and also the charities’ current safeguarding deliver their missions safely and Throughout the week, they had retraced Nelson Mandela’s footsteps policies, procedures and practices appropriately. the opportunity to interact with at the site of his capture. are adequate and working properly. South African students from Ashton Ampleforth commissioned an Robert Blewitt, headmaster, said: This includes concerns about International College, kicking independent report by Professor Sue “This is the fourth trip LOGS has the charities’ compliance with events off with a series of Football Proctor last year to look at areas organised to South Africa. The established safeguarding procedures. and Hockey matches. including its future safeguarding friends made and the experiences It has therefore made an order under reporting structure. Its senior teams After several fiercely contended shared will last a lifetime. We very Section 76 (3)(g) of the Charities Act have been working towards these games, LOGS pupils took home the much look forward to reciprocating 2011 to appoint Emma Moody of recommendations which have also 2018 Ashton Cup before taking the amazing welcome we receive in Womble Bond Dickinson as interim been shared with Ms Moody and part in a ‘Culture Show’ at the end Ballito when we host students and manager of both charities. her team. of the week, where they performed staff from Ashton next year”.

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Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 9 Are current pressures destro ying teachers’ ability to teach the subject they love? Recent reports suggest that teachers are feeling a lack of autonomy in their roles today and although this feeling may not be universal across all schools in the country, nor something that is relevant to every aspect of a teacher’s role, it is, without doubt, a growing issue for many teachers today. Ben Evans, head of Edge Grove School, Hertfordshire, reflects...

Within the education system today, standards of teaching and learning there are many external pressures and an individualised approach to placed on schools from ISI, Ofsted, the care of their children and with unions, government and parents, the communication they receive all of which mean teachers are from school. under incredible scrutiny and increasingly, have limited freedom Higher stakes to teach both the curriculum they Additionally, schools are facing an want, or indeed how they think it increasingly competitive market should be best taught. As a result, where budgets might be stretched, regular checks and balances are contact time is increased, a essential to ensure consistency greater number of co-curricular and quality in teaching but this opportunities are being offered, must not be to the detriment of before and after school care and teachers’ enthusiasm, innovation schools are fighting to attract the and basic professionalism. same children and maintain full passionate, child-centred and rolls. All of these pressures mean When teaching totally committed and those A balancing act that teachers are being required to becomes a chore who have the time and energy It’s no secret that teaching has do a lot more in addition to their The issues tend to arise when to prepare well-planned and never been a nine to five job and core teaching duties. school standards are scrutinised the workload means that for any through GCSE and A-level league resourced lessons. They need time On top of this, inspection is more teacher, there is always a lesson tables and the percentages gained to mark work carefully and time to plan, a set of books to mark, a frequent and demanding and the at A and A*. The league tables only to give the feedback necessary topic to resource and research, a stakes are much higher together show a part of any school’s story to achieve the maximum pupil report to write or a myriad other with greater health and safety but are held in great store, often progress and attainment. Without exigencies placed upon them. requirements, safeguarding and the incorrectly by parents, and can the time and support from the This often means working late recent addition of GDPR and all cause schools and teachers a great school’s leadership, teachers will into the night and at weekends that this entails. This means school deal of pressure. In addition, prep simply go through the motions, leaders are more exacting and during term time. However, this schools who are preparing children teach lessons and mark books but demanding of higher standards was not a surprise when teachers for 7+, 11+ or 13+ entrance without the flair and energy that is than ever before. This cannot be a entered the profession and as it is exams often face great pressure vital for the best outcomes. often stated by those outside of bad thing but will inevitably lead from parents in a very competitive However, it is the duty of teaching, instead of the statutory teachers to feel they are under far world with more children than individual schools to monitor four or five weeks of holidays each greater pressure. school places and who may hold staff welfare, put measures in year, those in the independent Assessment, both formative and unrealistic expectations about their place to support teachers either sector average around 18 weeks summative is an essential part children’s ability and the schools to with workload, deadlines, parental of holiday. This has to be taken of teaching and learning today. which they are suited. into account as it is something all demands or personal issues which If it is not done properly, pupil It is very likely that many teachers teachers value and enjoy. progress and outcomes cannot may affect their work too. This are questioning their careers due could be as simple as auditing As with all careers, there are be monitored sufficiently and we to the pressures they face. This teaching loads, employing more pressure points such as exam are ultimately doing them a grave will result in staff who cannot give lunchtime supervisors to cover marking and report writing times disservice. Gone, thankfully, are their all in the classroom and for break duties, a cover supervisor for but these are expected and can the days when the odd unit test whom the teaching that may have when staff are absent, reviewing be managed and planned for in and end of term/year exams were once been a passion, becomes the reporting/parents’ consultation advance. The pressures definitely the sum total of any schools’ more of a chore. come from dealing with anxious assessment. Assessment for periods to make them manageable and aspirational parents who are learning should be happening in Flair, passion and other measures to reduce understandably paying a lot of every lesson every day and teachers and energy is vital stress and promote wellbeing such money to educate their children should be supported with this For excellence in schools, we need as staff yoga, free access to a and in return, expect high through training and CPD. teachers who are enthusiastic, counsellor and fitness sessions etc.

10 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Are current pressures destro ying teachers’ ability to teach the subject they love?

Ben’s Top Tips to help Bake Off takes off to mark teachers cope.... 140th anniversary Yorkshire’s Ashville College has organised in conjunction with HELP • Ensure a manageable teaching load for all staff hosted its first ever ‘Great Ashville (Harrogate Easy Living Project). • Build in time to meet as departments, phases and whole staff Bake Off’ as part of its 140th Its “Opening Doors” scheme • Dedicate time for report writing and exam marking anniversary celebrations. aims to help those who are older • Regular weekly CPD sessions to ensure staff are able to reflect and More than 70 cakes, biscuits, and vulnerable to maintain their seek support from colleagues on a range of teaching and work life quiches, breads and pork pies independence by getting out and issues. – baked by parents and pupils about with the assistance of a – were laid out for guest judge, volunteer. • An available cover teacher for when staff absence due to illness/ Betty’s managing director Simon courses is high. Richard Marshall, Ashville College’s Eyles, to sample before choosing Headmaster, commented: “Whilst • Staff fitness and yoga sessions to help promote a healthy life and winners from sweet and savory work life balance Paul Hollywood and Pru Leith have categories. to sample a maximum of 36 cakes • A staff counsellor available free of charge The competition also coincided or breads per episode, Mr Eyles had • A personnel committee, chaired by a governor to discuss issues with the school’s annual tea party the enviable task of tasting more such a workload, pressure points etc. for elderly people in the local area, than double that number! • A carefully constructed calendar (with staff consultation) of Pictured Ready. Steady. Eat! Betty’s managing director Simon Eyles - who is pictured with pupils Josh reporting periods, parents’ consultations, exams, gradings etc. to Byrom, Esme Bloodworth, Isabelle Byrom and Daniel Dobson - begins the judging process! ensure fewer pinch points of heavy work load and spread these across the year to make them more manageable.

How did we get here? How can we The world of education and move forward? schools is now a very different First and foremost schools must place to that of 20 or 30 years look at their teachers’ workload ago. Compliance regulations and ensure it is manageable and are so much more stringent fits the needs of the school. Are along with the regular cycle of teachers able to spend quality inspections – this all adds to the time preparing lessons, marking pressure on staff. Parents are books, reflecting on good practice now so much more involved in and fulfilling their professional FEEDING their children’s education than development targets? ever before and this undoubtedly All of this should largely be built INDEPENDENT adds to the pressure. In the into their working day ensuring a independent sector, we are healthy work life balance. Do the fortunate to not be constrained school’s Teaching and Learning by the endless government edicts and Assessment policies constrain and changes to policy which teachers in the classroom? In MINDS mean maintained schools are reality, such policies should allow constantly having to change greater freedom for teachers holroydhowe.com 01189 356707 course, policies and practice. to practise their pedagogy and ensure greater pupil engagement Independence allows us to teach and academic excellence - a rich and varied curriculum with hopefully the aim of all schools. a sensible balance of knowledge Does the school have checks and skills, assess pupils’ progress and balances in place to identify sensibly and with purpose, and staff who are under stress or add much awe and wonder to FOODSERVICE CATERER underperforming as a result of CATEYS 2016 our daily school lives ensuring the undue pressure? This is essential perfect mix of academic rigour, with the necessary support readily creativity and excitement. available to resolve the issues.

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 11 “Hurricane Hannah” visits Hannah Cockroft MBE - whose sporting career began when she was introduced to wheelchair basketball at her senior school – took on Ashville College, Yorkshire, head Richard Marshall in a basketball challenge. Whilst Hannah holds the Paralympic and World Records for the 100m, 200m and 400m in the T34 classification – basketball fanatic, Mr Marshall, also boasts an impressive sporting CV. Mr Marshall, who joined the independent school last Inspiring recycling ~ September as its tenth Headmaster represented England at basketball as a schoolboy at Under 15, 19 and 23 age levels, whilst also students lead the way playing for the British University England team, and was captain of Student body “Agents For Change” have been successful his University first team. Hannah and Mr Marshall battled in their campaign to improve the Framlingham College, head to head in a penalty shootout alongside Ashville pupils Suffolk, recycling strategy. and keen basketball players Brody Meyer and Josh McCray, ending in “Agents for Change” have Their tireless campaigning cups from the water fountains and a draw between the two teams. successfully instigated a new resulted in an official meeting has urged members of the gym and environmentally friendly policy with the commercial department swimming pool to bring their own In addition to shooting hoops at the school. As a result of their at the school and the following water bottle to keep hydrated. against Mr Marshall, Hannah spoke campaign, Framlingham College was agreed. to pupils from Year 3 upwards Andrew Payn, the Operations will no longer use non-recyclable about overcoming adversity, the - All plastic cups at mealtimes will Director, was really impressed with cups and cutlery at the school. It is pressures of social media, body- be replaced with washable glasses their determination and passion to estimated that across both school image and self-confidence. protect the environment. ‘We have sites (accommodating 700 students - Plastic cups at water fountains been recycling paper and other The school was given this and 275 staff) up to 200,000 plastic have been removed and every student and member of staff has waste products for some years but opportunity thanks to Rob Shaw, cups and 100,000 paper cups were been issued a branded re-usable these inspiring young students the father of a pupil, who bought used per year. water bottle. approached the matter in a different a “Day with Hannah” at a charity “Agents for Change” is made way. They questioned why we were dinner. His daughter (Eliza) - Paper cups for tea and coffee up of a small group of pupils at creating so much non-recyclable persuaded him to ‘donate’ that have been removed from common Framlingham College Prep School waste in the first place leading us to rooms and every staff member day to her school. who are aiming to change the review our operations. Not only have will be receiving a branded re- world for the better in a variety of they substantially reduced our waste usable thermos cup. different ways. but they have also reduced costs as - Paper cups for students’ hot Their first item on the agenda was well!’ chocolate have been replaced with to improve the recycling situation “Agents for Change” have also china mugs. and processes at the school. They written to the local councillor had identified that too much waste - Plastic spoons in staff rooms and for his support and his pledge to paper was being produced and that at team teas have been replaced improve the recycling situation in far too many non-recyclable cups by metal spoons. Brandeston, Framlingham and the and cutlery were being used and - Installation of a blue recycling surrounding area. then sent to landfill. bin in every classroom in the The next focus for “Agents for “It’s everyone’s responsibility to school. New large paper bins have Change” is to find ways of reducing make sure we look after the planet been installed in more accessible food waste, using compostable and the way we dispose of the locations. packaging made from plants, waste we produce”, said founder The “Agents for Change” campaign reducing harmful emissions from the members Will Lamprell, Jim King has also been adopted by Fram school vehicles and preventing lights Pictured: Hannah Cockroft and Ashville and Joe Lewis. Leisure. It has removed all plastic in the school from being left on. Headmaster Richard Marshall

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Artwork Client: LAW Doc: 1-00102393.004 LAW Swot Indep.SchoolsMag (297x210) AW Project: Press Size: (297)mm x (210)mm A/C: Alice AW: RB C M Y K Date: 06.02.18 Version: 1 Changing Places...

Longacre in Education from St John’s The Principals Head of Packwood Haugh, School, Surrey, College, Cambridge. Prior to of Northwood Shropshire. Prior to that he was welcomed new working in preparatory schools, Schools, Sir deputy headmaster from 2009- Headmaster Mr he taught Latin and Greek at Malcolm and 2012 of Walhampton School, Matthew Bryan Hampton School and King’s Lady Colquhoun, Hampshire, having embarked on at the start of his teaching career at Cumnor College School, Wimbledon. have announced term. Mr Bryan was previously the appointment House, Sussex in 2002. Matthew is a keen golfer and Deputy Head (Academic) at St of Clive Smith-Langridge as the He is married with two grown- Ronan’s School in Kent. has run the past two London fifth Headmaster of Northcote up children and will be joined Matthew has an MSc Education marathons. He also plays the Lodge, London, following the at Northcote Lodge by his wife (Learning and Teaching) from flute and guitar and is looking retirement of Mark Smith in Sally, who plays an active role at St Anne’s College, Oxford forward to supporting all the July 2018. Clive is currently Packwood Haugh. having read Classics and gained extra-curricular activities at a Post Graduate Certificate Longacre. The Prior to this he spent nine years Edgeborough at Chafyn Grove School as a Mrs Nicola Huggett, currently as her Head of Department. School, Surrey, Head of ICT, Form Tutor, Head Head of Blundell’s School, She became a Housemistress new head is of Rugby and Deputy Head. He Devon, is to be the new in 1999 and Head of Boarding Dan Thornburn. started his career at Lockers Park head of Cheltenham College, in 2005. In 2007, Mrs Huggett He became School as a Class Teacher and Gloucestershire. and will take up was appointed as Deputy the Headmaster to replace the Head of Rugby. Dan studied post in September 2018. Headmistress of Downe House retiring Chris Davies (the current History at Exeter University and Educated at Marlborough College, School in Berkshire, where she Chair of IAPS) last autumn, recently completed his Masters Mrs Huggett went on to read remained until her appointment following three years as the in Educational Leadership at the Philosophy, Politics and Economics to Blundell’s in 2013. Head at St Petroc’s in Bude. University of Buckingham. at Oxford University. After Mrs Huggett has many interests successfully completing a graduate including music and sport. A management scheme in advertising keen runner, she has completed The Governors and is currently Head of Prep with J Walter Thompson Ltd, she the London Marathon and has of Trent College, and Nursery at Abbotsholme returned to Oxford to complete enjoyed playing Club Hockey. Nottinghamshire, School in Derbyshire, where a PGCE in History and began She has four children. have announce she was also, for a time, Acting teaching in 1994. Mrs Huggett’s appointment the appoint- Head of the whole 2-18 school. From 1996 to 2007, Mrs Huggett follows Dr Alex Peterken’s ment of Mrs Before that, she spent five years taught Politics and History at departure at Christmas. Mr Faith Potter as Head of The Elms as Head of the Junior School at Haileybury, working closely with Crispin Dawson (Senior Deputy Nursery and Junior School in Nottingham Girls’ High School, Old Cheltonian Danny Hearn Head) is currently Acting Head. Long Eaton. responsible for over 300 pupils She will be joining The Elms in and 33 staff. Rydes Hill Pre- lic School, Wimbledon, where September, taking over from Keith Faith Potter has an Honours paratory School she has overseen the doubling of Morrow who is taking up a new degree in Ecology and a PGCE in and Nursery, the school pupils and significant headship in Birmingham. Mrs Pot- Primary Education and is mar- Surrey, have redevelopment and building pro- ter has over 25 years’ experience ried with two daughters. Outside announced the grammes. Under her headship, in primary education and The school, her interests include appointment of St Mary’s has climbed the league Elms will be her third headship. family life, sport, hiking, and Mrs Sarah Norville as Headmis- tables to become the Sunday She has worked at a number walking her three dogs, Tessa, tress from this month (April) Times 68th best school in the of leading independent schools Tilly and Sam. following the retirement of Mrs country. A firm believer in the Stephanie Bell after 12 years of value of parental engagement, headship. Mrs Norville encourages open The Council of department. Following a period channels of communication Mrs Norville studied English Rossall School, of teaching English overseas, between home and school life at St Mary’s in Strawberry Hill Lancashire have Jeremy completed his PGCE at the and became deputy head of and engenders a strong sense of announced the University of East Anglia. St. Thomas of Canterbury in community. appointment of Appointed to teach history and Fulham in 2003. Mrs Norville lives in Byfleet with Mr Jeremy Quar- classical civilisation at Gresham’s Since 2007, Mrs Norville has her husband and 2 year old son, termain as the school’s new Head School in 2007, Jeremy was been a Head at St Mary’s Catho- Charlie. from August 2018. subsequently appointed Head Jeremy is currently Deputy Head of Sixth Form in 2010. In this Fulneck School, Mr Taylor is currently Deputy (Academic) at Brentwood School. role he was responsible for the He was educated at Colchester Yorkshire, has Head at Trent College, day-to-day running and strategic Royal Grammar School before announced the Nottingham, a post he has held development of the Sixth Form. since 2014. He was previously studying for a history degree at appointment of Assistant Head of Fulwood Peterhouse, Cambridge Univer- Current Head, Ms Elaine Purves, Paul Taylor to Academy in Preston and a sity. He completed an M.Phil. will leave Rossall School in succeed Deborah Newman as Boarding Housemaster and Head in medieval history at Trinity August, following a 5-year post, its new Principal from the 1st of Politics at St Peter’s School College, Dublin, where he also to take up another headship in September 2018. in York. tutored undergraduates within the Brussels, Belgium.

14 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Conference for Heads Headteachers from 50 independent There were presentations from schools gathered for a conference Benenden, Newton Prep in at Benenden School, Kent, last London and Holmewood House month (March) and spent the School in Kent, all of which day discussing issues that are have introduced enquiry-based pertinent to the sector. There was curriculums in whole or in part. a particular emphasis on Year There was then a positive but 7 and 8, including a focus on robust discussion about the enquiry-based curriculums and best method for managing prep the transition from prep to senior pupils’ entry to senior school. school. A panel discussion was held, in There were some strong views which heads of prep and senior expressed that enquiry-based schools outlined their varying curriculums offer pupils a more positions on pupils’ entry and an relevant and lasting education: open and honest debate ensued that they provide genuine skills about how the system could be for life by fostering independent improved. learning, creativity and encourage risk-taking. By contrast, Common The afternoon drew to a close with The event concluded with Benenden Headmistress Entrance was seen as an exercise a session on partnership working, wine tasting, performances Samantha Price (pictured) said: in merely testing a child’s ability with Benenden and The John from some young musicians “Overall we were delighted with to recall knowledge, which senior Wallis Church of England Academy and dinner, followed by a talk the response from Heads and felt school Heads felt was a less discussing how the partnership from former Education Select the turnout on the day reflected effective method of assessing a brings enormous benefits to pupils Committee Chairman Neil the importance of the topics on pupil’s potential. from both schools. Carmichael. the agenda.” Chinese teachers visit MOTIVATIONAL, ASPIRATIONAL, ENCOURAGING YOUR CHOICE, A delegation of teachers from the Fuyuan British American School, in ANY SIZE, Shenzhen, China visited Sibford School, Oxfordshire, to see examples of SHAPE, STYLE, FRAMING best teaching practice. OR COLOUR! The visit follows a trip to China earlier in the year by Sibford Head, Toby Spence. The teachers observed lessons in a number of subjects including English, Maths, Chemistry and Physics. They also visited Sibford’s successful ESOL department where they met some of the school’s overseas students. Toby Spence said: “Our ESOL department is a key part of the school with a strong reputation for supporting pupils from across the globe as they improve their English and develop language skills which will support them in their studies. It is great to have a link to Fuyuan British American School which is a forward thinking and welcoming school in Shenzhen. We hope to continue our partnership in years to come.”

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Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 15 IT outsourcing – a growing trend in Independent schools A large number of Independent schools currently outsource their catering or cleaning services, because these tasks aren’t an integral part of the skillset of the school staff team; they call in specialists to take away the hassle of these tasks, and let them worry about the processes, laws and risks.

Today, 15% of schools are working data, teachers and learners safe more efficiently with a blend of on- with an IT partner for delivery of is a complex and never-ending site and remote support services. part (we call this co-sourcing) or all task, fraught with dangers. A Avoid unnecessary spend – If your of their IT support (outsourcing). specialist IT partner is ideally IT procurement choices are made They are enjoying the improved placed to keep abreast of the latest on the preferences of your network provision, cost savings and teaching security risks, and will ensure that manager or teachers because it’s and learning benefits that a specialist your infrastructure, data security ‘what they know about’, rather technology partner can bring. and pupil access to appropriate than a future-proofed and more materials are all kept up to date According to a BESA survey from cost-effective tool that will benefit and as secure as possible. October 2017, 27% of schools are the school longer term, then how planning to review their support Reduce staff overheads – The can they be making the best use of like having two sets of keys to the options this year as they become highest spend in most schools is on your budget? car – we both know how it works more forward-thinking. This will staff salaries, and when pressures Increase expertise – A school IT and either of us can drive – so you enable them to achieve a high level are put on budgets, the thought technician or network manager have peace of mind knowing that of ICT delivery and support whilst of having to make teaching staff is a generalist in IT. They need to support is always on hand when also keeping costs down. redundant to save money is a know a little bit about everything, you need it. choice that no school wants to So what are the benefits? but chances are they don’t have make. If you have a skills gap in By partnering with an IT support in-depth expertise in every area. provider your IT costs become Ensure security is optimised – your IT team, an IT partner can As a result, IT issues can take a predictable, and your technology is Keeping your network, school provide this resource for you much long time to resolve, and often cost effective and future-proofed. it’s a symptom that gets fixed, not It also helps stop those expensive the root cause. An IT partner can IT investment mistakes that must help identify the root cause, so be avoided as we try to cope with that you are guaranteed the fastest ever-increasing budget pressures. fixes, ensuring your reputation at delivering the best is upheld. Identify underperformance in IT Improve flexibility of service – – Managing an IT team isn’t easy An IT partner can provide year- if you don’t fully comprehend round support services, and has the the technologies yourself and this capacity to easily cover illness or makes it impossible to challenge annual leave – a luxury not often IT underperformance, so you may enjoyed by schools with small or unknowingly end up with less than even single-person IT teams. With ideal solutions or service for your RM supporting your network it’s teaching staff.

16 Independent Schools Magazine IT support is changing in forward-thinking schools Technology & teenage mental health conference Heads, deputies and pastoral leads from schools across the South East gathered at Cranleigh School, Surrey, last month (March) to hear experts from the fields of neuroscience, mental wellness and adolescent psychology discuss the impact of technology on the mental health of teenagers.

Earlier this year Cranleigh become Burnett; founder of the Everyday We will hold a similar conference modern technology, to use the first boarding school in the Sexism Project Laura Bates BEM; for parents.’ it safely and responsibly and UK to prohibit the use of mobile Clare Stafford CEO of the Charlie to understand the risks and Drs Coleman and Burnett phones for pupils in its first Waller Memorial Trust and Dr explained the mechanics of stereotypes it may present. two year groups (Years 9 and Andrea Saxel, Cranleigh’s Deputy the teenage brain, its need for Or we keep quiet, and allow 10). Staff say that the move has Head Pastoral. Workshops were sleep and help with focussing what happens online to have proved popular with parents and led by Vicki Shotbolt, CEO of an enormous, unchecked and pupils alike. At the same time the ParentZone, Claire Eastham, concentration and its particular potentially damaging influence on School provided each pupil with author of We’re All Mad Here, susceptibility to the addictive an iPad containing educational and Sam Cooke, Housemaster at nature of social media apps. young people’s self-esteem and their ideas about what sex and apps and is incorporating tech- Cranleigh. Laura Bates called for schools based learning into every lesson. relationships look like. Dr Saxel said: ‘So much disparate and parents to open up dialogue The conference brought research on the impact of about the body issues that can “Young people need all the together experts and educators technology on teenage mental be caused by the perfect world support and guidance they can with an interest in the impact health is being undertaken at of selfies, and the extreme get to navigate this terrain. We of technology on teenage the moment. We are embracing pornography that is available for are currently living through a mental health, to share ideas technology in all areas of the children to view on unprotected unique moment in history, never websites. She said “For too long, and experiences, to learn from curriculum but have become experienced before or again, in we have attempted to bury our pioneering work going on in this worried about the constant use of which a generation of non-digital area and to create a network of heads in the sand, with some social apps. Research shows that natives is parenting and educating links and best practice. Held in young people are increasingly naively arguing that discussions a generation of digital natives. partnership with leading mental unhappy and anxious, and to about sex, consent and online The gulf in experience and health charity, The Charlie Waller some degree this can be linked to pornography risk ‘giving young Trust, the one-day conference overuse of social media apps and people ideas’. But the reality is understanding that this presents featured keynote speeches from: smartphones. Quite rightly it is a that they are already exposed to should not be underestimated. Clinical and Developmental matter of concern for schools and such ideas, perhaps to a greater Sharing knowledge and strategies Psychologist Dr John Coleman; parents alike. We felt there was a extent than many parents and to approach these linked and Neuroscientist, columnist and compelling need for a conference teachers even realise. Either we complex issues has never been stand-up comedian Dr Dean to address the issues all together. give them the tools to navigate more important.” Making money grow Year 6 pupils at Exeter Junior Maths Coordinator Jacquie Barnes School are celebrating a record said: “All our pupils made us year of fundraising for good truly proud with their superb causes through their involvement selling techniques, stamina, team in the Virgin Money ‘Make your work and excellent customer £5 Grow’ scheme. service. Pupils from across the In small groups, the pupils school visited each stall over dreamt up, designed and made break and lunch time, armed products to sell to their peers as with their pocket money and a part of their Independent Maths personalised bag, and very much Project 2018, raising over £2000. enjoyed the range of items and The profit will be divided evenly activities available. Whether it between Sport Relief, Cancer was treasure hunts or traditional Research UK, Dementia UK and skittles, delicious fruit smoothies The Mardon Centre, Exeter, with or bath bombs, hilarious grass out lucky dips, apple-bobbing or fabulous gifts and cards for one fifth going towards fun maths heads or snow globes, how many squeezing stress balls, slurping Mother’s Day, there was something games to enhance pupils’ learning. goals they could shoot or trying fruit smoothies or picking up for everyone!”

18 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Teachers’ involvement in setting exams ~ latest Ofqual has set out how it intends to Teachers will continue to be able to write assessments and have access to confidential materials. However, awarding organisations must maintain up strengthen its regulation of awarding to date records of all conflicts of interest relating to teachers who have seen confidential assessment materials. And they must review their safeguards organisations’ involvement of teachers such that they are appropriate and proportionate to: in the development of confidential • effectively mitigate the risks of using teachers in the development of assessment materials, following last year’s assessment materials, for example by making sure no teacher knows whether or when any assessments they have developed will be used; cheating scandal. • support teachers to do the right thing, through appropriate training and The proposals include: contractual obligations; • detect malpractice, for example by sampling the work of teachers who • Explicitly setting out in our rules steps that have written exam papers to look for any unusual patterns of response. awarding organisations must take to help The exam boards who deliver GCSEs, AS and A levels and other qualifications used as equivalents, such as the Pre-U, have already written protect the integrity of the assessments to the exams for summer 2018. Ofqual therefore suggests that safeguards for which teachers have contributed; and 2018 will need to focus on deterring and detecting malpractice and on supporting teachers. These awarding organisations have published a joint • Publishing further statutory guidance to statement setting out their intentions for this summer. Ofqual expects that all awarding organisations will have made significant progress in terms help awarding organisations understand the of the safeguards they employ by summer 2019, and have fully revised factors and approaches they should consider their approaches by 2020. This transition period is deemed necessary to avoid introducing an unacceptable degree of risk to the delivery of safe when deciding how to comply with the rules. qualifications.

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Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Schools conf half page Ad Jan 2018.indd 1 Independent Schools 08/01/2018Magazine 14:30 19 Moving on: are children today given too much say in the choice of senior school? In a society where places at high ranking senior schools are hotly contested, is it right that parents are allowing their children to become increasingly involved in the primary to senior school decision making process – ultimately leading to the potential for many to be unnecessarily exposed to the risk of disappointment? Sean Skehan, headmaster of Barrow Hills School, Surrey, discusses the issue and what he tells parents...

Times have certainly changed. Ultimately the most important point Turn the clock back to the current to bear in mind is to choose a school generation of parents’ experience exclusively with YOUR child in mind of moving onto senior school and and to base your decision making the majority of us were more or less on finding the right fit for the indi- presented with a fait accompli as vidual needs of your son / daughter. to our next school. Attendance at Be realistic about the chances of endless Open Evenings and planned being awarded a place; if their scores Admissions events simply wasn’t are scraping the border line for the an option. Your future was in the requirements set by the school do hands of your parents and changing you really want your child to be schools was very far removed from faced with seven years of struggling the protocols in place today. in lessons? One of the over-riding reasons for Outside of the academic require- this has to be popular modern-day ments it is also key for parents to parenting techniques. The need to uniform – while these are all impor- munity await your child? How easy feel that the ethos of the school be a child’s friend, rather than their tant considerations, it would be safe is it to access teachers to discuss any matches the values they hold dear. parent, has seen a significant shift to say that they are not the criteria issues? Were they satisfied with how Regardless of any reputation for towards providing our children with on which an adult’s decision making staff dealt with any problems? outstanding success, if the school would be based. an alarming range of choices and While friendship groups that have does not share the same belief options in life, which naturally ex- So how should a parent go about been established at primary school system that your child has been tends to which senior school they’d choosing the right senior school are important, recognise that these brought up with, then it will never ‘like’ to attend. for their child? Firstly, we would may not necessarily continue in a provide the right environment for At Barrow Hills, we are 100% against recommend limiting the number of senior school setting. Aside from the them to thrive. pushing children towards a school Open Days that you attend together. obvious fact that as children mature, Prep schools which offer a seamless with which they absolutely feel no Parents should put together an ini- their choice of friends may change, transition to a sister senior school affinity – our over-riding priority is tial short-list of appropriate schools there is also the practicality of larger have their advantages. Obvious and always will be, the happiness and then these can be discussed as senior schools putting children into benefits include the child already and well-being of our pupils. But I a family. Avoid getting into the un- different houses / sets so that in knowing the school and be- can’t help but feel that this trend for fortunate situation where your child reality, existing friendships may be ing familiar with it (it is probable ‘empowering’ children to have a say falls in love with a school that you very difficult to maintain. Moving that the schools will have already in so many decisions has gone too have already decided is not right for schools is a natural time to forge undertaken some shared initiatives) far and is not necessarily adding to them. While Open Days can be use- new friendships and sometimes, and of course, a similar ethos. It is their overall contentment. ful, we would strongly advocate vis- putting your child into a situation also quite likely that there will be an where he / she feels the need to be As parents, we have a responsibility iting a school on a normal day, away automatic entry opportunity, which loyal to their old friends can prove to help our children find their way from all of the activities specifically removes the stress associated with stifling rather than reassuring. in life but with that comes a duty to designed to appeal to prospective entrance exams. However, tempting take some of the angst and confu- parents and their offspring. Spend Don’t be tempted to put your as it is to opt for the uncomplicated sion away from some of the big de- some time witnessing the behaviour child through the stress of sitting route, parents do need to carefully cision making. As mature adults with of children at the end of the school entrance exams unless it is for a examine if this is the best choice for the benefit of undoubtedly facing day, do they seem cheerful? Do they school that you / they believe to their child, not just the easy one! our fair share of challenges, we are appear motivated and stimulated be absolutely one that ticks all the The leap to senior school is always better placed to begin the schools by the lessons they have attended? right boxes. Too often, children are going to be a challenge. The role process on behalf of our children Are they in a mad rush to leave the taking entrance tests for a school of a parent is to ensure that the and engineering their valuable input school premises? Most importantly, that will only ever be the ‘fall back move represents an informed choice at the right point in time. are there plenty of smiles and happy option’ and that is not in anyone’s by providing the voice of reason faces? best interests. Our advice would be to recognise and understanding based on one that the factors which might influ- Acknowledge that a school’s reputa- If your senior school choice is a simple fact – an innate insight into ence a child’s choice of school, are tion is governed by the people boarding school rather than day the child’s needs and abilities and not necessarily the ones that count that run it on a day to day basis. school, your child’s input does be- a desire for them to thrive because most! So, the fact that your child’s Ask friends and colleagues about come more critical as there will need they are happy and secure. best friend may be attending xyz their personal experiences of the to be greater emphasis on identify- This means stepping up to being a school, or the amazing lunch that school and its teaching staff. Does a ing a setting where your child will be child’s best parent. Not their best was served, or even the sought after genuine warm and welcoming com- comfortable and at home. friend.

20 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Qualifications that are recognised around the globe, with a choice of grading scales.

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ISM IGCSE A4_ad Oct17.indd 1 06/10/2017 12:10 New houses Hornsby House School, London, has added Pankhurst inter-house competitions. Each Friday, the points are and Nightingale to the existing four school Houses, all totted up and the House with the highest weekly total named after explorers: Armstrong, Scott, Hillary and fly their flag above the playground for the coming week. Cousteau. The Friday before each half term is a ‘House Day’ when Hornsby families were asked to vote on a short list children take part in a variety of activities in their House of female candidates for the new House icons, and groups, with older children helping the younger ones Pankhurst and Nightingale were the clear winners. Now to enjoy the day. One of the activities in the October that there are around 420 children in the school, the House Day was for children to design new flags for their new Houses allow a manageable number of children in Houses. There were many designs and the winning ones each House and also include two inspirational women in have now been made into flags (pictured). the mix. Headmaster Edward Rees said, “The children are Children can earn House points for achievement and extremely loyal to their House and strive to earn points effort in all aspects of school life, as well as through for good work, effort and behaviour.” Is leasing the answer to all your minibus headaches? Budgets, maintenance, advice and training Chris Maynard, MD of Castle Minibus takes us through the advantages of leasing a minibus to not only spread the costs but lighten the load of your school’s transport manager. It is very easy for school transport your arrangements. If you hire a members must undertake to carry and additional compliance issues? managers, or those given the minibus you need to ensure it has a out safety inspections at least Usually the poor unsuspecting responsibility of the minibus to Certificate of Initial Fitness (COIF) or every 10 weeks. Where we get an member of staff given the role of feel overwhelmed by a role that Certificate of Conformity (CoC) and application for section 19 permits transport manager without any doesn’t come with formal training must be in a safe and roadworthy which does not state 10 weeks we training or guidance. but has potentially massive legal condition. If you are planning use the opportunity to email our Spread the costs and the and safety implications. Minibuses to purchase a vehicle, you must advice leaflet to them and to discuss are an expensive item to purchase supply details of the arrangements what they are doing with regards responsibilities and then there is the driver training you have made to ensure that the to vehicle maintenance. Some of Castle Minibus not only leases to consider. Like any large project, vehicle is kept in a roadworthy our members will carry out safety vehicles that include the 10-week breaking it down into manageable condition. Leasing a vehicle through inspections at 6 weekly intervals and safety and maintenance checks, chunks and seeking help and a reputable company such as Castle some at 8 weekly intervals, it will road side rescue and their expert advice where necessary is the best Minibus includes all the necessary depend on their operations’. guidance as standard but offer a way forward, and as the trusted maintenance and safety checks, now Driver and staff training range of driver and staff training advisor to over 1500 UK schools recommended to be at least every payment packages to suit all sizes Castle Minibus is proud to be able ten weeks. Driver training for minibuses is also of school. This enables the staff to support even the most reluctant 10-week safety and an additional concern for many responsible for the minibuses to of minibus managers with several schools. There is a real grey area as attend a minibus compliance course, packages that help spread not just maintenance inspections to whether teachers are considered written and delivered by ex-traffic the costs, but the responsibilities. Under a Section 19 Permit the DVSA volunteers when driving a minibus. police personnel, to ensure they What responsibilities? The and CTA (Community Transport If you’re in agreement with Northern know exactly what is expected of Authority) who issue the permits legal and safety implications Ireland, legal advice and Castle them in that role and allows for recommend that minibuses have a Minibus you will consider school members of staff to complete not A recent survey by Castle Minibus maintenance safety check every 10 staff ‘at work’ and still professionally only D1 driver training but also of over 300 schools (January 2018) weeks by a qualified professional i.e. responsible for their charges when refresher courses such as MiDAS, or revealed over 70% were confused a mechanic. they’re driving a minibus. Therefore, the Castle Assessment day. about Section 19 Permits. A school Amanda Howard, on behalf of CTA you’ll be looking to have them take that’s a registered charity or not Castle Minibus are the champions Advice Team comments: ‘We find the full D1 licence which includes for profit organisation needs to of minibus safety and as such it is the smaller new members, and a health and eyesight check as display a Section 19 Permit in every aim to provide accessible ways for also schools, who don’t understand well as the theory and practical vehicle to avoid the huge costs of a UK schools to remain safe and how important safety inspections testing with a refresher course, such professional operator’s licence. compliant where their minibuses are are that will need further guidance as MiDAS, every 3 years, as also concerned. Part of the application for the to enable them to comply with recommended by the ISBA. Again, Section 19 Permit includes an our requirements. The CTA has the costs of training can add up. For more information call understanding of maintenance always placed a condition on the Who is responsible for organising 01869 253744 or email responsibilities and proof of issue of section 19 permits that all this training, the maintenance [email protected]

22 Independent Schools Magazine BALANCE YOUR BUDGETS AND SPREAD THE COST OF D1 DRIVER TRAINING AND ENJOY ADDITIONAL COMPLIANCE AND REFRESHER COURSES AS PART OF YOUR PACKAGE

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*Only available on direct debit and is on a 12-month renewable contract. All the above is subject to our T’s and C’s and credit approval. ProfileIn conversation with Louise Salmond Smith

Children: Yours is the oldest school in Sussex, With a strong contingent of boarders Isobel (19) and Penelope (17) probably dating back to the foundation we are always open, so the breakfast Qof Chichester Cathedral in the 11th and supper club attendees simply join Schools and University A century. It was re-founded in 1497 by Bishop in with life in the boarding house. I have always Attended: Edward Storey who attached it to the Prebend found that boarding schools naturally attract Clayesmore School, UEA of Highleigh in Chichester Cathedral and thus the sort of staff who possess a very strong (BA Music), Hull (MMus), gave its present name. What does this long work ethic and the drive to really get stuck in. Gloucestershire (QTS), Keele Christian heritage mean to your pupils and Everyone goes the extra mile and thoroughly (MBA). staff today? enjoys doing so. We have super boarding staff, as well as our wonderful catering team, who all Our link with the cathedral continues First job: have a very collaborative approach to caring for to be very strong, and the school is Stable girl, Dorset, 1988 pupils, and many of the non-resident staff think very much part of the community. nothing of giving up an evening or weekend to First management job: A The choristers sing seven services each week help support that. You cannot view working in Director of Music, The Grange and I know the congregation is thankful for a boarding environment as simply a job – you Preparatory School, Santiago their significant contribution to the life of the have to really enjoy it. If you have a team as cathedral. Our pupils come from a range of First job in education: committed as mine, the challenges are greatly backgrounds but Christian values, such as trying House Tutor, diminished. to make the right life choices and being kind to The King’s School, Ely others, underpin our teaching. Even our very Pupils’ mental health and the need youngest pupils love the glorious majesty of Appointed to current job: to develop mental resilience has been going to assembly in the cathedral each week. 2017 Qmuch discussed in recent months. What is your approach? Favourite piece of music: The Cathedral’s Choristers still live and I cannot choose one, but learn at The Prebendal. This must add I do think that resilience is a key skill according to Spotify my most Qan interesting dimension to the musical that will help children as they move listened to piece is Il Giardino life of the school. How do you ensure that you Atowards their teenage years and Armonico’s recording of Aria achieve the correct balance between school and beyond. Children need to learn how to deal Sopra La Bergamasca by Marco cathedral life for the choristers? with the challenges that life will inevitably throw their way, and no school or parent will Uccellini. The choristers are a super bunch of help a child by shielding them from those chaps and they never fail to astonish Favourite food: obstacles. However I also think it is important me with their professionalism and Lamb Madras A to remember that, too often, resilient people musicianship. There are very many other put up with difficult and challenging situations Favourite drink: children within the school who are equally for longer than they should just because they Anything from the able musicians - music is a way of life for us, can. Resilience is vital, but so is the ability to Sole Bay Brewery so the choristers do not particularly stand out recognise when to ask for help and support to from everyone else. It’s a refreshingly healthy change or put a stop to an ongoing issue. Favourite holiday destination: environment, and it keeps the choristers I love long road trips, grounded. Boarding at Prebendal is great fun One of your fellow heads suggested particularly in the and we work very hard alongside the cathedral recently that girls should learn to be Southern Cone (South America) to ensure there is ‘down time’ for these very busy more like boys, by taking themselves young men. Q Favourite leisure pastime: less seriously, exchanging banter with each Travel other, being less sensitive about teasing, In 1972 The Prebendal was one of blagging it a bit....all of which would ‘toughen the first schools in the UK to go co- Favourite TV or radio them up for the real world’. In these days when educational. You now take boys and programme/series: Q there is so much news around gender identity, girls aged three to 13, and offer ‘extended- Have I Got News For You how can a head of a school like yours celebrate day’ arrangements as well as full, weekly, or ‘la difference’ without stereotyping? Suggested epitaph: flexi-boarding. This level of flexibility within a “She came, she saw, she opined” co-ed school of under 200 pupils must present I certainly believe that all children according to my children who significant staffing and cost-control challenges. should be encouraged to find will, after all, be paying for it How do you manage it? Adifferent aspects of themselves that 24 Independent Schools Magazine Louise Salmond Smith has been head of The Prebendal School, Sussex, since last September. She was previously head of Tormead Junior School in Surrey.

they perhaps did not know they possessed. produce the same invigorating endorphin rush I really believe that working abroad Differences in abilities and personality as playing sport. benefits anyone, no matter what their between boys and girls aren’t fixed, and Acareer or sector. It’s very humbling it can be all too convenient to accept the You spent five years teaching in Chile. to be the outsider, the one who has to rely on ideologies of stereotypes. These traits are, at How did that come about? Do you others to help them navigate a new city with best, statistical differences that do not take Qconsider that any features of the an alien language. My experience in the state into account the needs of each individual Chilean education system could usefully be sector made me realize how fortunate we child. Education can help lead and inform introduced here in the UK? are in the independent sector to have control societal change, and the world is changing, of our own curricula, the luxury of specialist so hopefully this will be a moot point one day. I spotted Chile on a travel programme teachers and how much more value is placed There’s no place for misogyny or misandry in and knew that I wanted to go there. on the arts, sport and languages. I think the any modern school. AIt was a wonderful place for my best preparation for Headship was being a children to spend their formative years and we Director of Music. It’s a unique role within any The Prebendal boasts official status have very many fond memories. For a number school because you have your own team of as a ‘Beach School’. What does this of reasons bilingual education seems to be instrumental staff, have regular contact with Qmean, and how does it enhance your much more of a feature in overseas schools, all the parents - often teaching every single outdoor education philosophy? and I have often wondered if it’s something we child in the school - and your output is under All schools are wise to take advantage could make more of here in the UK. It is widely constant public scrutiny in a way that no other of resources on their doorstep and, reported that children benefit from learning a department has to encounter. You have to be with an abundance of stunning different language but, frankly, two lessons a tough. In many ways, being a head is a piece of cake by comparison! A week does not produce the same benefits as coastline so close to us, our children have the freedom and space to explore natural an immersive environment. Whilst I appreciate You are a keen amateur photographer. resources, judge and take intelligent risks, and that much of the rest of the world is able to How would you describe your style be imaginative and creative. They learn through communicate in English, I do feel very strongly of work? Has the skill level needed cross-curricular projects which encourage and that significant exposure to a second language Q evaporated with the advent of digital? instil social communication, co-operation, in the very young can enrich their adult lives problem solving and, most of all, have an immeasurably. One thing I noticed in Chile I love travel photography, but I try to get enormous amount of fun. Why be stuck inside a was that there was no expectation on the off the well-beaten tourist trail and find classroom when you don’t have to be? children to speak English perfectly, therefore Asomething different or idiosyncratic. I they possessed the confidence to converse have found that my skill level has increased with You were an Academic and Music digital – I am much more daring in my approach with fluency without imposing unrealistic scholar at Clayesmore School, than I used to be because I know I can always try presumptions of accuracy. There was a real QDorset before reading Music at again if a shot hasn’t quite worked. I think the understanding that, above all else, language is university, and have spent some of your skillset has changed rather than diminished, and career teaching the subject. Some research about communication. It’s great if you can get you still have to have an eye for a good photo in suggests that playing a musical instrument all your verbs perfectly lined up, but perhaps order to produce images that are consistently of enhances academic achievement. Is that your we should indulge in the joy of nattering away a high standard. experience? to a stranger in their language rather than worry too much about whether or not the Who or what inspired you to become Yes, absolutely. The transferable tense is correct. a teacher? Do you still make time to skills that learning an instrument teach? helps cultivate really do enhance Q A Upon your return from Chile, all areas of a child’s life. Learning how to be I teach as much as possible because you spent some years working in well-organised is clearly a key benefit, but it’s the only way to really get to know state schools before re-joining the developing concentration skills, working with Q the pupils. There were many influential independent sector at Hall Grove School, A others, and the patience needed in order to characters throughout my school days and I master a particularly tricky passage can all Surrey. If you look back on your experience am grateful to each of them for a variety of contribute to academic achievement, no abroad and in maintained schools, which do reasons. Robert Mash was my tutor when I was matter what a child’s ability as a musician. you feel was the most beneficial element of at Clayesmore and never lost faith in me when There is much evidence that shows how preparation for your role as a head? Would others had become perhaps frustrated by my playing a musical instrument can change you recommend such ‘widening experiences’ typical, yet tedious, teenage rebellion. Every the structure of the brain for the better, and to would-be heads? child needs a champion, and he was mine.

Independent Schools Magazine 25 Focus on science Robert Winston inspires with “Why bother with Science” lecture The New Beacon School, Kent, found making and experimenting welcomed Professor Lord Robert with things.” He advised pupils to Winston to school last month “Follow the thing that interests (March) to deliver talks, the first you and a good teacher will to an audience of 9-13 year be able to capitalise on your olds from 8 local schools on the interest and point you in the right subject of “Why bother with direction to further your quest for Science?” information.” The audience was privileged A second talk was delivered to an to see footage of cutting edge audience of 40 sixth form pupils technology in use such as a who were interested in pursuing journey through the human careers in the field of science digestive tract using a futuristic and medicine. The Professor ‘Pillcam’. This is a tiny camera advised them that one of the fitted with a flashing LED most important lessons is “To light; designed to show up understand failure as we cannot Professors inspire new any abnormalities inside the learn how to succeed unless we human body. It is swallowed like learn how to fail.” traditional tablets and takes the wave of scientists Mike Piercy, Headmaster of same route through the body The ground breaking development team at Newcastle University and The New Beacon, said, “What a as food. They also saw footage of the controversial ‘three parent the Northern Institute for Cancer privilege for so many students from the Super Mouse experiment baby’ technique was the hot topic Research. to have heard Professor Winston which tested two mice, one with as three notable professors from speak with such passion, Sharing the stage, Prof. Sockett modified DNA and one without. conviction, knowledge and the North East inspired the next The Super mouse experiment returned to the school she wisdom. He encouraged the generation of scientists at Dame was an important step forward in left in 1980 to talk about her audience to use the whole Allan’s Schools, Newcastle. helping us to understand how we exciting work at the University brain, to embrace the arts, to be might be able to treat diseases. Professor Robert McFarland’s of Nottingham to establish the empathic, to use their emotional pioneering studies into predatory bacteria Bdellovibrio as a Professor Winston said, “I was intelligence to remember the Mitochondrial Donation, an IVF way of fighting against superbugs. interested in science from the value of humility. An inspiring technique using genetic materials age of eight and could often be day!” Jason Downie, Head of Science at from three people to give families Dame Allan’s, said: “It was such an affected by mitochondrial disease honour to welcome three esteemed Science Fair the chance of having healthy scientists to the school, and children, was discussed as part of Scientists from Bancroft’s everybody was inspired by what the Schools’ first Science Lecture School year 13 were in action they all had to say. Evening, ‘Saving Lives One Cell at at the Essex school’s annual a Time’. “The pupils were amazed to hear Primary Science Fair when they first hand how far science has entertained over 200 visiting To coincide with British Science taken the speakers in their careers, year 5 and 6 pupils from a wide Week, Prof. McFarland, based at and also how big an impact they range of local primary schools. Newcastle University, was invited have all had on the world. This year the Fair took the theme to join fellow professors Liz of “Exploration and Discovery” event. Throughout a busy and Sockett and Ruth Plummer to talk “We would like to thank all which was reflected in the stalls demanding day, they were clearly to pupils and parents at the Senior three for taking time out of their organised by the Sixth Formers. School. busy schedule to pass on their keen to engage with the visitors inspiration to our scientists in the As ever, there was a huge who clustered excitedly around all He is currently leading a major making.” range of interests shown: The the stands, eager to see what was study on the outcome of Heart, Invisible Ink, Antibiotics going on and to take part. There Mitochondrial Donation following Dame Allan’s Principal, Dr John and Diseases, Space Travel, was a real sense of excitement the 2016 parliamentary changes to Hind, said: “Newcastle has become Planet Exploration and Rocket amongst visitors and sixth the law to permit the procedure, a real city of science in recent Engines. The visitors particularly formers alike.” nicknamed ‘three parent baby’ in years, so how fitting that these enjoyed the stalls which gave the UK. three exceptional scientists treat us them the chance of a hands- In addition, the visitors spent to such an interesting talk in the time exploring aspects of all three Hailed as the inspiration behind on experience: the slimier the town. major sciences: a chemistry show the creation of the Sir Bobby better. Dr Elizabeth Swinbank, gave an introduction to exploring Robson Cancer Trials Research “It is a great inspiration to our Honorary Fellow in Science Centre, Prof. Plummer shared pupils that they all started in Education, University of York, chemical reactions, in physics her story of the success of the school labs similar to ours and who visited the fair and judged they made their own rockets and anti-cancer drug rucaparib which have gone on to carry out such the stalls was fulsome in her launched them on the school field was discovered by her and her important work.” praise, “All the teams are to be while biology gave a chance to commended for the energy and discover how we, and other living Pictured: From left to right, Dame Allan’s Schools’ Principal Dr John Hind, with professors Liz Sockett, Robert McFarland and Ruth Plummer, and pupils. enthusiasm that they put into the things, use some of our senses.

26 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] The decision of a lifetime. The University of the Year.

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Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 27 A life of teaching & playing music Sheona Wade

Q. At what age did you first take and woodwind instruments. university and music college, I permanent contract offered to me, a real interest in music? Who or I was encouraged to play a always wanted to make sure my I returned to the UK and enrolled what inspired you to do so? ‘toy’ keyboard at a very early professional career contained a straight onto a PGCE. age, but I showed an aptitude substantial teaching element. I began playing Q. How do you measure for picking out recognisable Learning and participating in at the age of ten, your success? melodies and so as soon as I was music is an invaluable experience mainly because my old enough, my mum sent me for people of all ages, and I love I am only as good as older sister already to piano lessons. At the age of contributing to that experience, in my last performance! played and it looked 7, I was lucky enough to get a my case as a singing teacher. I am very tough like fun. I was a terribly shy and scholarship to attend Chetham’s on myself, honest introverted child except when Unusually, I School of Music and so was and very disciplined I played my instrument, so my remember the completely immersed in music as well. No matter how tired I parents really encouraged me to exact moment I throughout my education. I was am after a long day at school the play a lot. As the years went by knew that I needed a mischievous and accident-prone first thing I do when I get home my confidence grew, but I am still to be a teacher. child, forever falling off the is practice for at least an hour. a very shy person now (I put on I was living in South Africa, climbing frame or breaking bones Success for me is all about being a good act!). When I play I lose and working as co-principal in various silly stunts, and I owe the best you can be and reaching myself in the music and love being percussionist of the Kwa-Zulu my piano teacher so much for your true potential. At the age of able to express myself through my Natal Philharmonic Orchestra. putting up with me – she was the 43 and with all I have achieved as a horn, I don’t think or worry about It was a great adventure for a kindest, most caring and most musician I could easily sit back and anything else going on around me. 21-year old, living alone 9000 take it easy, but I am constantly patient person I have ever known. miles away from home, and I I can’t really striving for excellence in my own She somehow managed to get loved every minute of it. For a remember a time I ability, that is what makes me me to practise, and saw beyond few months, I thought the job didn’t love music successful I guess? my age and immaturity to really was absolute bliss. During the – we always went challenge me musically. symphony season of weekly For me, it’s when to church on a concerts, there were some weeks I see my students Sunday, so singing was a very Q. Why did you choose to in which I had a major role really take ownership normalised activity for me, then I become a music teacher? in every piece, which entailed of their own musical started piano lessons when I was The year I hours of rehearsals and high- progression – when 7 (if memory serves) and went graduated from octane performances. There were they nail some technical element on from there. We were a very University I won also weeks where percussion without my prompting them; when musical household, in the cheesiest the BBC Radio 2 instruments didn’t feature in the they ask a question or make a way – my sisters and I all had Young Musician of concerts, and so I got to sit on comment about a lyric or character piano lessons, and each learned a the Year which then gave me the beach and read my book, in a song that shows that they’ve wind instrument (saxophone for a platform to become a soloist drinking fresh orange juice and really engaged with the material me) and had singing lessons, so and a professional musician. As watching a myriad of ships as within themselves; when they we would often all be in the back much as I enjoyed it there always they navigated their way round tell me they’re joining a choir, or room at home, singing or playing seemed to be something missing. the Horn of Africa. It sounds auditioning for a musical… That’s together. I was fortunate to have I decided to do my PGCE at the idyllic, however I often wished when I know that I’m doing my a tremendously inspirational GCSE age of 27 and have never looked I were a string player so that I job well – essentially when I realise music teacher, John Frankland, who back. I have a lovely balance of could be busier. Then, one day, that they need me that bit less really encouraged me to dig deeper teaching and performing and a the orchestra were sent to do a than they used to. into classical music, which is when very supportive school! I think workshop in one of the poorest For me, success I started singing in choirs, taking it is absolutely vital to be a role townships in Durban. The children comes in moments piano lessons much more seriously model to my pupils and for them sang to us, we played to them, of triumph, tiny and generally becoming properly to see they can also have a career and we shared our musical or momentous. obsessed with all things musical. in music. Without music I wouldn’t experiences as equals. Whilst we These moments are be the person I am today and I don’t remember taught them about the language incredibly varied; from directing I find it a privilege to be in a a time in my life of classical music; our instruments 400 pupils in a world premiere of position to inspire and nurture our that wasn’t focused and playing styles, they came a performance at a world-class future musicians. on music! My to us with their incredible concert hall, to seeing the awe and family were all keen Having had hugely aural tradition of singing and wonder on a child’s face when they amateur musicians, with both influential, generous drumming. I was transformed by encounter a new musical genre for my parents playing in their local and committed this experience; moved beyond the first time. Often, it is the small, brass band and all my siblings music teachers words, and it really ignited a fire domestic moments that are the at least trying out various brass throughout school, in me. Rather than accepting the most memorable.

28 Music & Drama Music staff are well known for their enthusiasm and dedication, which often extends outside the school gates into involvement in the community through music-making organisations. ISM asked three teachers at Bolton School about their life in music...

Jonathan Ainscough Andrea Price

Q. What music-related Into the Woods in Manchester on your feet and responding to will be premiered in Japan in April, activities are you involved with in which all the cast-members unexpected circumstances! and I will be heading over to Osaka outside school? What has been doubled as the orchestra, with The brass band to conduct the premiere during the the high-spot of this? What my particular tasks involving community is very Easter break. does it add to your teaching? playing two characters while also important to me, There have been so many highlights performing on piano, accordion I play Principal and aside from including my time in Africa, tours and saxophone! I also recently Horn for the playing regularly to Australia, Japan, New York, enjoyed playing Franz Schubert Brighouse and in bands, I am also one of the Europe, and so many amazing in a play about the composer’s Rastrick Band and life that toured the UK, although percussion tutors of the National venues; Sydney Opera House, regularly perform as Youth Brass Band of Great Britain. Wembley Stadium, The Royal Albert a soloist and deliver masterclasses playing horrendously hard Lieder accompaniments in the midst of I am still a freelance performer; I Hall; my twenties were quite a all over the world. Before I began love the buzz of being part of an whirlwind! Quite simply, I know teaching at Bolton I was the Tenor a very emotionally-draining play ensemble and am very fortunate to that without music, I would not Horn tutor at the Royal Northern was a bit of an ordeal! I direct have been able to travel the world have what I have, or be what I am College of Music. operas and musicals around the country, and work for most of as a percussionist. However; in – and so I spend my time trying It’s very hard to pin point a the major UK opera companies on recent years, composing seems to to unlock musical potential in the high point as there are so many various community and outreach have taken over, and I am spending young people in my care. Perhaps to choose from. Playing at the projects. I also lead weekly music more time writing music and am one of them, one day, will also Commonwealth Observance and drama workshops for the in greater demand as a composer. have an unexpectedly amazing life Day in Westminster Abbey amazing charity Streetwise Opera, My latest brass band composition thanks to music. and meeting the Queen was who work with people who have a wonderful experience and experienced (or are at risk of) getting the opportunity to homelessness. My latest new perform in the Sydney Opera adventure has been joining the House was incredible, but I also cast of the Olivier-Award-winning enjoy playing at the Whit Friday Showstopper!: The Improvised Marches in Saddleworth in the Musical which is literally what it wind and rain with my brass band says on the tin – we (a cast and which is at the opposite end of a band) make up a brand new the spectrum. musical on the spot, based on All these experiences make me audience suggestions for setting, a better music teacher as every content and musical styles. If experience I have I can share with you’ve never seen a Showstopper my pupils and let them know show… you really should! There’s For all your there are no limits to what they nothing else quite like it. music education can achieve. My mentor always All of the elements of my career said to me...many are picked but influence and develop each other, & performance equipment few are chosen... you choose but, in regards to helping me as a yourself. teacher, it would be particularly the

I do odd bits of community and outreach work I do Music Stands, piano-playing as an for opera companies and theatres. FREEPHONE Lights & Accessories accompanist, but The experience of helping people Music Folders 0800 072 7799 Music Chairs & most of the rest of so many different age-groups, Accessories of my musical life backgrounds, and expectations to join the Instrument & Sheet is tied in with theatre – mainly engage with music and theatre Music Storage education discount Conductor’s theatrical forms in which drama challenges me to be continually programme and Equipment and music are intertwined, like creative in how I communicate, save money on Staging & Risers Theatre Products musicals, operas and plays with how I choose repertoire, how I your purchases! music. I work across all those describe technique, how I introduce Acoustic Products forms as a performer, often people to things they might feel in shows that require artists apprehensive about… Also, I would that can act, sing and also encourage anyone involved in play instruments – one of my teaching to explore the wonderful www.blackcatmusic.co.uk favourite jobs in that regard world of improvisation, as nothing was a production of Sondheim’s better prepares you for thinking

Music & Drama 29 independent schools mag Ad 90x135mm MAY11.indd 1 6/5/11 13:08:41 “West-End worthy” Described by a parent of a Year 7 included a coconut shy, apple- pupil as “truly worthy of the West bobbing and face-painting. End; the girls’ acting was flawless Teacher Mrs Claire Ruby said:“I and the singing was simply only started working at Cobham divine!” The last three nights of the Spring Term ended on a truly Hall this term as a Drama tutor high note for Cobham Hall School, and have been blown away by the Kent, girls as months of hard work talent I have seen. Beauty & The paid off and their production of Beast was absolutely enchanting, Disney’s ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and the cast were exceptional. AmaSing Performance was received with much acclaim. Each and everyone gave it their A group of ‘AmaSing’ singers from The children performed on Those arriving early had the all, the lead roles were extremely Abbey Gate College, Cheshire, stage, backed by a live band and chance to get into the spirit with talented, the backstage crew Infant & Junior School performed conducted by the organiser, Rachel a Medieval Fayre in East Court worked their socks off, the music at Chester’s new theatre, Borman. before the show. Staged by a team was beautiful and the show was an Storyhouse in a massed choir made The evening, presented by actor of Sixth Form students, the Fayre absolute joy to watch!” up of over 25 local schools. Simon Smithies, included dance The event organised by new groups and a singing ensemble, community interest company, along with ten songs performed AmaSing took place over three by the AmaSing choir. It finished days and involved more than 1000 with a rousing rendition of ‘Gonna children performing a selection Live my Life to the Full’, written of songs, some of which were and recorded to raise funds for the specially written for the choir by Macmillan Cancer Charity. Matt Baker and Andrew Smith. Music teacher, Jane Dukes said: Seven months of preparation, “The children, all dressed in their learning lyrics and dance moves sky blue ‘AmaSing’ T-shirts, were were finally over, and the day had thrilled and excited to be involved arrived for pupils to show parents in such a fabulous show. They and friends their musical skills and performed brilliantly and were a talents. credit to the school.” Cathedral choral The annual Exeter School Choral of Dibley. They were supported by Society concert held at Exeter a professional orchestra including Cathedral last month (March) was many of the school’s peripatetic once again a highlight of the music teachers under the direction The Curse of musical year, drawing together of Director of Music Peter pupils, parents, staff, alumni Tamblyn. and guests from the school’s Cranholme Abbey The second half of the concert was community. all-Mozart, initially featuring Ave Warwick School, with King’s High Tim Norton was in the audience The concert opened with Middle Verum, sung by Chamber Choir School, was delighted to be given on the opening night to see School Choir singing Howard under the direction of Assistant the opportunity to be the first this incredibly chilling, dark and Goodall’s arrangement of ‘The Director of Music Tom Brimelow, school production of ‘The Curse of spooky production which held the Lord is My Shepherd’, best known and then followed by movements Cranholme Abbey’ by Tim Norton, whole audience in its clutches to as the theme tune from The Vicar from the Mass in C minor. for three consecutive nights at the the bitter end. Bridge House Theatre last month (March). The opportunity came as a result of a recent trip to Edinburgh by Mr M C Perry, Director of Drama at Warwick School, who saw this powerful and cleverly written piece performed by the Young Pleasance company. Tim Norton very kindly gave Warwick School access to the original set, text and sound cues (over 100 of them!) making this production very exciting from the start.

30 Music & Drama BRINGING THE MAGIC OF THEATRE TO YOU

As a company we are totally committed to combiningM&M Theatrical theatre Productions with education, are the providing UK’s largest superb and value most for money productionsrespected provider that are of innovative, theatre-in-education, magical, colourful specialising and, inmost Classic importantly, Literature wonderfully captivating. WeAdaptations believe thatand thePantomime best way Productions to teach children for Prep is byand telling Primary a story. School audiences. We call it the Magic of Theatre. We transform gyms and dining halls into a magical theatrical experience, using state of the art sets, sound, lighting and special effects. Our Productions are renowned for their high quality and attention to detail, ensuring that children of all ages and abilities are equally engaged, educated and entertained.

CLASSIC LITERATURE ADAPTATIONS PANTOMIMES These enchanting productions are presented in an easily These fun, colourful and dynamic productions actively digestible and interactive format, suitable for the whole 4 – encourage audience participation, expertly combining 11 age range.CLASSIC The audience LITERATURE will be immersed in the story the tradition of theatrePANTOMIMES pantomime with up to date and andOur their Classic imagination Literature and emotions Adaptations evoked are in aimed a way atthat ageColourful, appropriate musical humour, and packedmusic and full themes.of fun, adventure Wonderful promotesencouraging ongoing children creative to writing, read readingfor enjoyment, and discussion, by costumes,and special superb effects, scenery our pantomimes and magical willspecial have effects the bringingaided by books our accompanying to life, in particular Teacher’s classic Resource fiction Pack. by wholeall combine audience to cheering,deliver an booing electric and atmosphere clapping along!and long established children’s authors. “Theguarantee performance audiences was a fantastic truly imaginative, and the children enthralling were “All the classes in school will now do a week’s literacy journey into the enchanting world that is Pantomime. “Thebased children on your in theperformance. class were Whatengrossed better and way wanted to get to thoroughly immersed in the magic of theatre” readchildren the story engaged because in ofwriting!” the show” “It was fantastic! My face literally ached from laughing!”

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Untitled-1 1 06/03/2018 13:43 A Night at the Movies Over 160 dancers aged 5 to 17 colourful costumes and lighting from St Benedict’s School, London, creating a brilliant spectacle on performed in A Night at the stage. Movies – a dance extravaganza Scenes included excerpts from inspired by film. Annie, Grease, Bugsy Malone, The choreography was quirky, Batman, Lion King, The Wizard of imaginative and fun, and Oz, Hairspray, La La Land, Ghost, demanded lots of energy and and Singing in the Rain. drama from St Benedict’s dancers. The show was choreographed and It was a vibrant production, with produced by Miss Stephanie Parker. ‘The Railway Children’ Pupils from the Lower School at London Kings Cross stations, and Dauntsey’s School, Wiltshire, have Dauntsey’s rose to the challenge of staged The Railway Children. An creating its own life-size train. adaptation of the classic story Staying true to the original story written by E. Nesbit, The Railway Children was originally performed and play, set in 1906 and on a in 2008 in association with the traverse stage, the audience was National Railway Museum. It able to look down upon both sides is famed for its reveal of a real of the lit tracks as the ensemble train engine in performance began their literal journey, to locations such as Waterloo and Britten and Auden’s Night Mail. Swing Into Spring Fusion Taal movie spectacular Felsted School, Essex’s annual talented and motivated pupils ‘Swing into Spring’ concert across the school. featured pupils from Years 5-13, Mr Owen Rees, Director of Music as well as parents and staff, at Felsted Prep School, commented all performing together in one “It was a joy to see Felsted full of fabulous sold out event. fabulous musicians and unique Over 170 musicians performed a collaborations, with all ages performing, orchestras, choirs, bands Movie Music Spectacular with jazz and so much more. The ‘Music bands, Latin rhythms, steel bands from the Movies’ theme produced and singers performing everything a contemporary concert that the from James Bond to Toy Story. Over 250 pupils from year 7 to Taal is a major fund raiser for audience fully appreciated for the year 13 at Bancroft’s School, Essex, charities and this year it is The whole evening represented range of styles and genres from the took part in the annual Taal event. supporting three charities. United an example of teamwork from 20th Century and beyond.” With its fusion of dancing, music World Schools, a charity which is and acting, Taal is more than transforming the lives of some of just another School production, the poorest and most vulnerable it brings a touch of Bollywood children in the World through colour and glamour to Bancroft’s. educational opportunities; money Over 16 years it has grown to raised will support Bancroft’s become an integral and much partner school in Cambodia. Pan anticipated fixture in the School Asian Women’s Association, which calendar as well as an important provides education for teenage part of the School’s cultural life. girls in 32 Asian countries aiming The event is totally student driven with members of the Bancroft’s to lift these girls out of poverty, Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist and Muslim and SOS Children’s Villages Society (HSBM Society) writing, which aim to give orphaned and choreographing and directing the abandoned children a family, event. The students assume full a community and a future. responsibility for everything, from This year Taal raised £27,000 finding sponsorship from local to support these three very businesses to sourcing costumes. worthwhile causes.

32 Music & Drama Musical Extravaganza

The Tales of Matilda A cast of Year 7, 8 and 9 with the school children girls at The Kingsley School, characters representing evacuees. Warwickshire, staged a creative The creative process was based on A spectacular performance took Commented Ros Shaw, from physical performance based on the practices of theatre practitioner place at Wellington School, Wellington School, who Roald Dahl’s ‘Matilda’. Bertolt Brecht and the values of Somerset, when over 450 children masterminded the whole event, Across two evenings ‘Tales ‘Ensemble Theatre’, a collaborative from 20 schools around the region (and appeared as Mary Poppins of Matilda’ explored the key approach in which everyone can turned out for an afternoon of to conduct!): “All the pupils had moments and themes of share ideas and take ownership of learned the songs in their schools workshops and rehearsals, before the famous children’s story; the story-telling process. with the help of their music performing a dazzling array of resilience, self-belief and teachers, and my colleagues and All the cast benefited from the songs from Disney hits to a thrilled inspiration. Matilda, a young girl I have been into all the schools experience of working with audience of over 1000! neglected by her parents, finds to work with them. When they freelance director (and teacher), a kindred spirit in her teacher Tracie Farren, who said, “The All schools came for rehearsals and finally came together on Friday, Miss Honey and helps her to girls have shared their own ideas, a sing-off to find star soloists for the sound was electrifiying – such stand up to Mrs Trunchbull. creatively experimented and the performance. In the evening, an exciting moment.” Each school The performance was staged in developed their own confidence in hundreds of parents, grandparents, had auditioned a boy and girl for a World War 2 era environment collaboration and performance.” friends and relatives poured the solos so there was a tense into the packed Sports Hall to and nail-biting, blind ‘The Voice’ hear the concert, complete with style sing-off for each role. The a professional band and three winners performed the roles in the Spine-tingling conductors. concert that evening. Shakespeare Celebratory concert Year 7 pupils at The Hawthorns donating to a local foodbank School, Surrey, were invited to in Merstham and the charity the WE Day celebratory concert at Loveworks; organising book Wembley Arena last month (March) collections and reading buddy as a reward for their outstanding mentoring for WE Read Together; fundraising efforts for the an anti-cyber bullying campaign international charity WE. in WE Rise Above; a stall at the school Christmas fair selling WE WE was created by children, for Are Rafiki bracelets for women in children, to fight the root causes Kenya; designed an eco-garden of poverty through projects to campaign for sustainability in at home and abroad. Since WE Take Charge and collaborated The three witches September, the pupils have led with the Christian organisation a number of initiatives for the SparkFish to deliver a think space Terrington Hall School, Yorkshire, In preparation for their end-of- WE movement in school. In the in school to spread kindness and Year 6 to Year 8 pupils wowed term production, Year 8 pupils were last two terms the children held compassion through the WE Are audiences with their gripping taken to see the RSC’s Macbeth in food drives for WE Scare Hunger, Silent campaign. end-of-term production of Stratford where they also explored Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Shakespeare’s birthplace and enjoyed a ghost walk. Directed by Head of Performing Arts Ryan O’Ehley, the pupils Terrington Hall Headmaster delivered two polished and Stephen Mulryne said: “This was energetic performances of a remarkable production and I would like to congratulate everyone Shakespeare’s most intense and who worked so hard to bring this terrifying tragedy. play to the stage. The ability of The impressive set, lighting, our pupils to tackle the language underscore, make-up and costume of Shakespeare and bring such design added to the intensity of complex characters to life at such a each performance. young age cannot fail to impress.”

Music & Drama 33 Is technology in education hindering students’ interpersonal skills?

• 58% of teachers believe technology in the classroom has hindered the interpersonal skills of pupils the most • 7% of teachers feel technology in the classroom has least deterred the researching capabilities of pupils • 57% of teachers think online assessments is the technology which will see the biggest growth in education over the next five years

Long gone is the time where of soft skills more important than learning at school primarily achieving good grades, teaching revolved around the use of specialists TeachingAbroadDirect. blackboards, chalks and textbooks. co.uk analysed findings from global Now in the modern classroom, education technology company technology has drastically evolved Promethean World, who surveyed the way in which schools teach over 1,600 educators from across and children learn. the UK to see if teachers believe technology has hindered the ability The wide adoption of smartphones for students to learn and acquire and tablets by students inside as soft skills. well as outside the classroom has made studying more engaging TeachingAbroadDirect.co.uk found that 63% of teachers think and interactive. Consequently, is the third soft skill which teachers think a pupil’s technical literacy technology has hindered the the unquestionable benefits of consider to have been significantly has been harmed by the presence interpersonal skills (collaboration, introducing technology in the hindered by technology in the listening, manners etc.) of pupils the of technology in the classroom. classroom has encouraged schools classroom at 41%. most. Thereafter, 58% of teachers Perhaps unsurprising, given the to annually spend an astonishing feel technology in the classroom has On the other end of the scale, only long amounts of time that pupils £900m on education technology. deterred the emotional intelligence 7% of teachers believe technology now spend interacting with With recent figures from The of pupils (the ability to understand has set back the researching technology – they are now more Prince’s Trust showing that 31% of and manage their own emotions, capabilities of pupils. Just slightly digitally savvy and competent than teachers consider the development as well as others). Communication above by 1%, only 8% of teachers ever before. School of tennis status Manchester High School for The partnership with the Tennis Girls has been named a ‘School Foundation enables the School of Tennis’ by Great Britain’s to implement a new tennis leading tennis charity, the Tennis programme, as Sarah Newman, Foundation. It is one of just 85 Director of Sport at MHSG, schools across the country to explains: “We are thrilled to have be recognised in this way and is been selected as part of this committed to improving pupil programme which is changing participation in the sport. the way tennis is delivered in While Manchester High’s Under- secondary schools. At Manchester 15s tennis players are already High, we educate girls to lead making a name for themselves on balanced and healthy lives and the court, being ranked fourth in offer them a wide learning the UK, the aim of the programme experience both in and outside sport in their free time. A new skills, and access to improved is to introduce girls of all levels to the classroom. Through this Tennis Ambassadors scheme will equipment and facilities will the sport and keep them engaged initiative, we will be able to offer give our girls the opportunity also enhance the teaching and in tennis throughout their professional tennis coaching and to develop their sport leadership learning of tennis.” teenage years. encourage girls to take up the Pictured: Director of Sport, Sarah Newman, and Head Mistress, Claire Hewitt with students.

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6135 Schoolblazer Print Advertising 2017.indd 3 29/09/2017 15:40 International trio A trio of Kelvinside Academy S6 last Friday, and 13 pupils have pupils have been called-up to been capped for Scotland at age the Great Britain U18 training grade. squad ahead of this summer’s Teacher Fiona Kennedy, who European Handball Federation continues to lead the programme Championships. which has seen the school become Euan Brady, Hamish Bottomley a centre of handball excellence and Zander Geddes will join other in Scotland, said: “The pupils U18 hopefuls for intense training caught the bug watching a game camps ahead of the final selection at London 2012, and they haven’t in July. looked back since. It’s been The three boys, who also play in infectious, everyone wants to have the school’s first XV rugby team, a go. It’s amazing how quickly so formed part of the trailblazing many of our pupils have taken to year group to play handball at the sport. Kelvinside Academy, Glasgow, “With more than 100 of our pupils just five years ago. All three have playing handball every week, the since represented Scotland at U15, School now employs handball U16 and U17 level. coach, Sarah Carrick, herself a In the short time since the sport senior GB player. News of these was introduced at Kelvinside GB call ups should encourage Academy, the school has won 16 even more people to take part. national titles, the most recent The boys have really shown both of which was the U17 schools natural talent and immense championship which took place dedication to reach this level.” Lancashire cricketers inspire U15s Bolton School’s U15s’ cricket Last season, the Bolton boys team was given a fillip when were the ESCA U14s’ Lancashire former Lancashire and England champions and they now go on cricketer Warren Hegg dropped to represent the county in the into their indoor nets session to Northern competition in a tie offer them words of inspiration. at Brooklands Cricket Club this A former wicketkeeper, Warren month (April). If they were to offered a masterclass in this overcome Sale Grammar, who discipline before offering will be representing Cheshire, practical tips and general words then they would progress to the of cricketing wisdom to the boys Northern Semi-Final where they along with two other former would meet, in an away fixture, Lancashire players John Abrahams either Newcastle School for Boys Swimming masterclass and Sajid Mahmood, who also (representing Northumberland) A group of Royal Hospital School, Final in Castellabate, Italy in 2014. helped out with the coaching or Hetton School (representing Suffolk, pupils were treated to a The GB swimmer visited to launch session. Durham). swimming masterclass with Double the 2018 Great East Swim which Word Champion and Olympic will take place at Alton Water Silver medallist Keri-anne Payne. Reservoir on Saturday 23 June. She Keri-anne is a South African-born was one of the Great East Swims British swimmer, specialising in debutants in 2009 and, although marathon open water swimming, retired from competitive open- and long-distance freestyle water swimming, will enter again swimming in the pool. She is a this summer in the Great East two-time 10-kilometre open water Swim’s 10th anniversary. Each year, world champion, and an Olympic silver medallist in Beijing in 2008. the Royal Hospital School enters She narrowly missed a medal a team of between 35 and 50 in the 2012 London Summer swimmers in a range of distances Olympics with a 4th place and and, of those training for this went on to win the LEN European year’s challenge, two swimmers are Pictured: Warren Hegg with co-managers Mr Nigel Partington & Mr Justin Moore. Nigel is part of the school’s Estates team and Justin a History teacher in the Boys’ Division of Bolton School. Open Water Swimming Cup Super- entering the 10km distance.

36 Sport Climbing experience

Royal seal of approval A group of young real tennis players presented them with medals at the from Manchester High School for end of the event. Girls got the Royal seal of approval Sarah Rowley, PE teacher at from HRH The Earl of Wessex as Manchester High School for Girls, they showcased their skills as part said: “At Manchester High, we of a campaign to generate support offer a wide and varied learning for The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award experience both in and outside the (DofE) at the Manchester Tennis & classroom, and we encourage our Racquet Club last month (March). Cobham Hall School, Kent, the Unicorn Association for the girls to go out there and explore welcomed a new addition to their new Freedom Climber. Fitness The students were joined by pupils new things. Trying out different from four other schools from across Sports Hall as a Freedom Climber at Cobham Hall is always at the forms of sport such as real tennis Greater Manchester to receive a was installed. The Freedom forefront of our minds, and we may push them out of their master class on the original racquet Climber is a combination of comfort zone, but it also gives try to ensure that we concentrate sport; as part of a series of UK rotating and transverse climbing them the opportunity to learn new on whole body conditioning and events by HRH to raise awareness walls, which replicate a realistic skills and transfer them to their fitness. The new climbing wall will of the DofE. The tennis enthusiasts own field of training. The Real climbing experience with all be an excellent asset. Not only is tested their new skills against each Tennis Challenge was a fantastic the physiological benefits of it enjoyable, climbing is great for other in front of a Royal audience; event and we were honoured to continuous climbing but in a safe, HRH, and other guests including improving muscular strength and meet The Earl. Our girls were visibly low-level environment. proud mums, dads and teachers. endurance, coordination, boosting inspired by his passion for the sport The School’s Parent-Teacher brain function as well as reducing Manchester High girls celebrated and no doubt it was an experience Association, Unicorn, sourced their third place as HRH they will talk about for many years stress.” and funded the wall. The congratulated all students and to come.” Unicorn Association hold regular Nine revolutions on the rotating fundraising events, such as raffles, wall is the equivalent of climbing Schools seasonal events, quiz nights and 51m – the height of Nelson’s themed Balls for Parents, Staff, Column in Trafalgar Square! Sports Timing Elders and Pupils throughout the For the more adventurous, 224 Indoor & External school year for the benefit of the revolutions would take them to the school community. summit of Ben Nevis, whilst 1475 For School Pavilions, Clubhouses & Pools Cobham Hall’s Head of PE, Mrs revolutions is the number needed For Gyms/Sports Halls Kelli Hooper, welcomed the wall: to climb the height of Mount “We’re thrilled and grateful to Everest. Swimming champions

The Mall School, London, overall performance winning swimming squad retained their team gold medal in the medley [email protected] www.sportclox.com title as borough swimming relay and silver medal in the champions last month (March). freestyle relay. Individual 0333 7000 110 Over 40 schools took part and medals were awarded to three UK Manufactured the boys put in an impressive squad members.

Sport 37 Crowned national champions – again! Warwick’s 1st XV returned to had one or both teams at the Twickenham to defend their finals every year, except one, and National title and returned home secured four national titles. This with the sweetest kind of victory! is not to mention the countless A triumphant win over QEGS semi-finals that both the U15 and Wakefield, the team who beat U18 teams have played in. them at U15s in 2015. Formula 3 for Cutter Tom Pierce, Director of Rugby at Warwick School’s history in this Giggleswick School, Yorkshire, rising Cutter, from Bangkok, who came Warwick said, “Congratulations National Schools Cup competition motorsport star Sasakorn ‘Cutter’ to Formula 3 via a background is hugely impressive, having to every single person involved in Chaimongkol is already turning in karting and Formula 4, drove made eight appearances at the this huge success, including the heads as he prepares to contest the the Cosworth powered Tatuus as Twickenham Finals and securing ‘blue and white’ supporters, whose British Formula 3 series this season. preparation for the forthcoming the national title on five occasions. presence at Twickenham is always British F3 series. Cutter, 18, who is in the upper Since 2013 Warwick School has made known!” sixth, recently took part in a gale A pupil at Giggleswick School since force rain-lashed two-day test 2012, Cutter will take part in 24 drive at Anglesey in Wales in front races over eight events in the British of Hillspeed Racing team owner, F3 championships. The first meeting Richard Ollerenshaw, who was full of was at Oulton Park over the Easter praise for the young Thai. weekend, where Cutter is aiming for Richard said: “It was an pole position. Over the series he will extraordinary performance, truly drive at Grand Prix tracks including remarkable. He was last in our car Silverstone and Spa Francorchamps at Snetterton in October 2016. as well as famous circuits such as He impressed us then but his Brands Hatch and Donington Park. performance this time demonstrated a maturity and calculated approach The school has supported Cutter’s which has allowed him to take this driving ambitions over the years. 240bhp, physically demanding race Headmaster Mark Turnbull: “We are car and return times within a second sure that Cutter has a bright future of what we would expect in warm in motorsport and we look forward summer weather.” to following his progress with pride.” Swimmers head for Commonwealth Games Shropshire swimmers are set to the best young swimmers in the Helping athletes achieve both is available to them on a daily head to the other side of the North West and West Midlands. an example of our mission and basis. The Titans and college aim world aiming to continue their practice. Our swimmers have the is to give the swimmers every The Titans programme, led by winning streak. most advanced training methods, possibility to achieve at the Alan, aims to identify and develop video analysis, sports science, goal highest level both in the pool and Two athletes from Ellesmere the best aquatic athletes in setting and lifestyle management in their academic studies.” College, Freya Anderson and Britain, acting as a talent hotspot Cassie Wild, have qualified for the and identifying individuals with Commonwealth Youth Games in the potential to achieve Olympic Australia this month (April). podium success. It comes hot on the heels They have access to a wide range of success at various junior of facilities including the college’s competitions including European own 25m pool, split level gym, and World Championships, both weights room, underwater and in the pool and open water. above surface video analysis and Having won more junior presentation rooms. international medals than any Ellesmere College deputy head other program in Great Britain in Vicky Pritt Roberts said: “We recent years, Ellesmere Titans are pride ourselves on valuing the now starting to make an impact individual, which is something on the senior international stage. lots of schools claim. But to The team, coached by former really demonstrate that, you world and European medallist need to be willing to adapt Alan Bircher, was set up in 2008 and be flexible to enable the as a collaboration between the individual to pursue their goals college and parents of some of and have a good education.

38 Sport Ten medal haul Skiers from New Hall School, Essex, aged 7-17, took part in demanding have returned triumphant from Pila, Slalom and Giant Slalom events Italy, with a record haul of 10 medals across the two race days. from the Artemis Inter-School Ski New Hall now has the largest Challenge 2018. As a new entrant school ski team among the British to the race five years ago (when the schools competing. The sport has school came last), New Hall School received significant investment in received a special commendation recent years and Principal, Mrs K from judges for winning 3rd place Jeffrey, accompanied the team to out of 90 British schools. To cheer them on to this most recent rapturous applause, judges said that success. Mrs Jeffrey said: “We are this rate of advancement of a school incredibly proud of the resilience Netball finalists ski team was “truly exceptional”. and collaboration shown by our Training on a 180m-long dry ski dedicated ski team. All 36 of our Bromsgrove School 1st netball the Semi-Finals where they faced a slope in Brentwood, New Hall ski skiers gave of their best. To be team reached the National Netball very strong Worthing College who team competed against schools awarded 3rd place out of 90 schools Finals, winning all of their fourteen Bromsgrove overcame to win 11-8. from throughout the UK, including and to win 10 medals – the most county and regional qualifying They then went on to face Queen some that are internationally-based, ever – was a brilliant result. It was a matches to represent the West Ethelburga’s in the Final where with Alpine locations. Channelling great reward for all their hard work Midlands. they fought hard, taking an early their inner Chemmy Alcott and and it was a joy to celebrate with lead but Queen Ethelburga came At the National Finals, despite Graham Bell, 36 New Hall students, the team.” adverse weather conditions of back to take the victory. snow, sleet and high winds, the The Bromsgrove team won twenty- team adapted their game to the two games in a row in the English conditions, playing smart netball. Schools’ Competition, with one They won every match in their loss to be crowned the 2nd best group which took them through to team in the country. Champions!

Sports scholarship A Leighton Park School, Berkshire, helping Kate achieve her goals and student, who is the current U16 get ever closer towards her Olympic 1000m kayak UK champion and on aspirations. Providing tangible the GB Olympic pathway, has been support that also motivates and awarded a prestigious Squadkit engages students and their peers. Scholarship for her achievements in Leighton Park’s Director of Sport, kayaking. Jeremy Belas said: “This is a big Olympic gold medallist and GB positive for the school, sport and Following hot on the tails of knock out round, they then went Hockey team member, Kate the Advanced Performer Programme recently being announced as the on to face local rivals Pocklington Richardson-Walsh, came to and all the students involved in Top Primary School Team at the in the semi final. With a draw at Leighton Park to present Kate with the sessions with Kate Richardson- Scarborough Sports Awards, the full time, the teams had to battle her award. She took the time to Walsh have had a truly inspirational Scarborough College U11 girls’ it out on penalty flicks. The deliver a seminar to students in experience.” hockey team have now ended their College girls battled their nerves to Leighton Park’s Advanced Performer season on a high as North England secure another win and take them Programme and ran a hockey Champions. to the final against AKS Lythem masterclass with some of the School. They went a goal down Following a hugely successful school’s top hockey players. initially, but soon pulled two back campaign in the earlier knock-out to put them ahead, only to face a Kate applied for the Squadkit rounds of the England Hockey short corner against them at the Scholarship along with several other In2Hockey Championships they dying seconds of the game. They elite athletes on Leighton Park’s secured the winners’ title at Sports fought to the end and defended Advanced Performer Programme. Park Weetwood (Leeds University). like champions to claim the overall Kate is one of only five students After beating Kirkham, King’s title with a resounding 2-1 win as in the country to be granted one. Chester and Wakefield GHS in the the final whistle blew. Squadkit is committed to supporting

Pictured: On the left Mr Chris Barker, Head of Scarborough College Prep School on the right Mr Brett the next generation in sports, and Cunningham Head of Hockey at Scarborough College. the sponsorship goes a long way to

Sport 39 Safeguarding international students Horror stories about host family accommodation Danielle Flood, Head of Student Support & Guardianship Services at Gabbitas Educational Consultants believes that, as part of the visa application process, it should be a legal requirement to ensure that ‘guardians’ have been thoroughly checked to ensure they meet certain standards...

Over the years I have heard many application process, it should be address is provided as to where horror stories about host family a legal requirement to ensure that the student will be staying then accommodation for international ‘guardians’ have been thoroughly that is enough information. Again, students who are studying in the checked to ensure they meet we cannot tar all with the same UK. These include cases where certain standards. The wellbeing brush here, some schools are very students live in rooms with no and safeguarding of these pupils good and have strict protocols for electricity or light, are given the should be a top priority, especially things such as the confirmation of bare minimum of food, or who given that many of them are guardianship, the documentation are completely left to their own minors/young teenagers and are they require for this and the devices and have absolutely staying alone in this country for information they need at the start no one who is responsible for the first time. of half terms. However others are overseeing their care outside One can’t blame the parents as not, and this is where the concern school hours. such; this is likely to be an entirely for these pupils lies. The most worrying aspect is that new and foreign (literally) concept With 13,000 international “Being a host family is all about this situation often doesn’t get meaning they can easily be drawn students due to start at British sharing your family life with checked by either the schools or in by a convincing local agent to schools for the new academic the parents; it seems that once mistakenly put their entire trust in year, this is an issue close to our an international student who there is a name of a ‘guardian’ them. Of course not all agents are hearts and although it isn’t a is away from home. There will it is then trusted and accepted. guilty of this and luckily it is only legal requirement, I would like be huge cultural differences for This is neglect, but it gets missed a minority that work this way. to think we could all agree that them to overcome and part of (or ignored) as these students are But safeguarding of international it should at the very least be the role is to bridge the gap in from overseas and often they don’t students is certainly an area in best practice. The aim should be their knowledge and experience. understand what is the norm. for these students to have their which schools need to improve on. In preparing to be a guardian This is allowed to happen because During term time, the protection own ‘UK family’ where they can or host family your home does there is no legal requirement of their pupils is a top priority, spend their school breaks in a not need to be perfect, you just to have a guardian in the UK. however when the term comes to happy, comfortable and cared for But there should be. I firmly an end it can be a different matter. environment. One of our host need to be welcoming and offer believe that, as part of the visa Usually, as long as a name and families explained it perfectly, a listening ear when needed and develop a relationship based on familiarity and trust”. Be the first to read the best So please remember, if you are based in a school with a September 2017 October 2017 responsibility for international students let’s all team up and put their safeguarding as a top priority, whether this be during term time or holidays. If you are working with a credible agency or guardian/host family they will share your wish and have

YEARS10 School Office 2007201720072017 Staffroom Chair Head Registrar Bursar Registrar Bursar Staffroom 10 Head ...the professional journal for Management School &Office Staff YEARS Chair procedures and policies in place 2007201720072017 ...the professional journal for Management & Staff to ensure this, which they will Independent Schools Magazine has been at the forefront of independent education since 2007, with a printed copy likely be more than happy to delivered by Royal Mail to heads and bursars throughout the UK. It is the leading professional journal for the sector. share with you. Now you can enjoy a free personal e-copy, sent to Best practice has to be the way you a few days before printed copies are available. forward for now, but one can only Simply register your email address at: hope that visa application laws will www.independentschoolsmagazine.co.uk change in the future to force a Your email addresses will never be sold or otherwise made available to third parties, and you can cancel at any time. better system for everyone.

40 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Patron of the Oceans guest speaker Cheltenham College, account of his 1,000 metre Arctic Gloucestershire, welcomed Lewis swim. A flag representing each Pugh to give a series of guest nationality of his team members lectures to pupils and parents was placed at every 100 metre about the fragility of the oceans. mark, highlighting the combined Lewis was appointed Patron of efforts of a dedicated group the Oceans by the United Nations and providing much needed Environment Programme in 2013 motivation. and has completed a remarkable As well as learning from his Pre-Prep and Nursery range of extreme swimming inspirational speech, pupils were quests to draw attention to the heavily involved in all aspects of vulnerability of our oceans and Lewis’ visit to College. Lewis was children raise ££££s their importance to humanity. interviewed before his talk by The Pre-Prep and Nursery children number of other events supported He is the only person to have pupils, and art students designed completed a long distance swim of Devon’s West Buckland School by parents, children and staff. the posters that publicised and in every ocean of the world and is have so far raised an astonishing promoted his visit. Head of Early Years, Mrs Cassy the first person to swim across the £921 for Children’s Hospice South Steel, said, “We are delighted to be icy waters of the North Pole. Both of Lewis’ talks were at full West through a series of fun capacity with audiences keen to initiatives throughout the year. supporting this wonderful charity Lewis (pictured below with students) hear the lessons and stories that that gives so much support and visited Cheltenham College to Fundraising ideas included taking have gained him over 7 million care to children who are terminally address pupils and parents at two part in an afternoon working in views on YouTube as well as ill and their families. Many thanks events. He spoke engagingly about teams to complete a series of invitations to speak at TedX, go to all the children for their his work, highlighting two swims in challenging activities against the Unilever, Coca-Cola and the smiley participation and endless particular. Firstly, a gruelling 1,000 clock. The children were sponsored World Economic Forum in Davos energy, and to their parents for metre swim at the North Pole in to take part. In addition, they have amongst others waters of -1.7°C, in order to raise had cake sales, casuals days and a collecting so many sponsors.” awareness of the melting ice caps Mr Richard Penny, Senior and effects of global warming. He Housemaster at Cheltenham then spoke about a 140 kilometre College added: “It was a privilege swim across the breadth of the to hear Lewis address the audience Maldives, to draw attention to their of parents, staff and pupils who fragility as a result of rising sea all left the talk inspired and armed levels. with practical tips to aim high and Through his experiences, Lewis sustain their effort. Resilience and OUR PAST ... YOUR FUTURE demonstrated the importance of tenacity are life skills as applicable teamwork, perseverance, and the to the school environment as School Consultancy power of a ‘made up mind’. He they are to the work place of the spoke passionately about the value future and the fragile ecosystems of personal belief and motivation, which Lewis promotes through his Recruitment using as an example a touching endeavours of endurance.” Professional Development

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Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 41 Bake Off 2018 Juniors and Seniors took part in the annual Towers Convent School, Sussex, Bake-Off Competition with the utmost professionalism and determination to win. Competitors from the four houses made delicacies, scones, tray bakes, and cupcakes. The tough job of sampling the goodies and judging the entries fell to a number of staff, including the catering team and Mrs Clare Trelfa, headmistress. Chocolate inspiration FREE Catering Review Budding entrepreneurs at with Jo. The discussion covered Dauntsey’s School, Wiltshire, have Offering high quality, healthy topics including the creation, food to school pupils has never been inspired by a talk from Jo development and eventual sale been more important or expected. Fairley, co-founder of Green & of Green & Black’s, her role as Balancing all aspects of catering Black’s chocolate, who delivered a Chocolate Ambassador and isn’t easy though; five-star food the latest Mercers’ Lecture at the the importance of organic and safety, appropriate marketing, School. Fairtrade ingredients to her managing allergies, vegetarianism Prior to the talk, a group of business. and religious diets, value-for- Upper School pupils took part in money and a hospitality service to Jo then delivered her lecture a question and answer session showcase your school. entitled ‘The Rollercoaster of Green & Black’s; and the If you would like a professional lessons learnt along the way”. opinion on whether your school’s The inspiring talk highlighted catering service reflects best practice, Panache can help for FREE! the importance of putting the customer at the heart of your A leading catering consultancy thinking and decision-making. for over 25 years, Panache provide will visit your school to discuss She gave the audience her top bespoke assistance to independent your aims, review the current schools across the UK. We are provision – whether in-house or tips for becoming a successful offering a free day’s review to the outsourced – and provide expert entrepreneur: first six schools to respond. One opinion on its status and an - Be brave and be daring of our experienced consultants action plan of any improvements. - Success = hard work - Always be willing To express interest: - Be authentic Tel: 0330 133 1238 Email: [email protected] - Be kind quoting ‘The Independent Schools Magazine’. - Have fun – the sound of Tel: 0330 133 1238 laughter is always good! www.panacheconsultancy.co.uk - Find a way to deal with stress - Find yourself a mentor

42 Catering Hands on experience at cookery masterclass GCSE cookery students from kitchen making company My Sheffield High School for Girls Fathers Heart. stepped outside the classroom Helen Simpson, Sheffield Girl’s for real life experience with three cookery and nutrition teacher, said: professionals in a cookery master “The aim of the day was to provide class. Winning refectory design the students with the expert skills The 13 pupils, who are the first to that they need to achieve the top Maccreanor Lavington has designed a timeless longevity to the building. study GCSE Food Preparation and grades in their qualification. a new refectory building for Ibstock The intricate timber roof structure Nutrition at Sheffield Girls’ Senior Place School, London. The practice provides both a sense of intimacy School, rolled up their sleeves to “You cannot beat hands on was appointed after winning a and grandeur. Rising to three glazed join in workshops with Waitrose experience from professionals away competition to design the new wing. lanterns, the roof volume supports butcher and fishmonger John Barker from the classroom to translate Work has begun on the new a simple natural ventilation strategy and former alumna, now baker at text book information into building, which has been crafted to and defines the uses below. BakesbyButter, Lizzie Schofield. practical skills.” sit harmoniously at the heart of the Maccreanor Lavington’s Tom They were also given an insight into John Barker showed the students school campus. The new refectory Waddicor, Project Associate said: will provide a high quality, enjoyable working in a professional kitchen how to fillet and bone mackerel, ‘We recognise the vital importance dining environment with abundant by Leslie Buddington, head chef at dover sole and chicken while Lizzie of lunchtimes in supporting pupils’ natural light and garden views. social and emotional development, award-winning Sheffield restaurant Schofield gave a baking workshop The generous floor space increases providing a time for rest, reflection Brocco on the Park. on best techniques followed by tips capacity and supports a diverse and camaraderie. Providing an on presentation and plating from The session was hosted by Harriet multi-use programme. The building inclusive, calm and comfortable Coulthard of family run bespoke Leslie Buddington. accommodates a full commercial environment for students and staff kitchen with specialist pastry room was integral to the design. We want and hospitality annexe. the refectory to be a celebration A soft stock brick and plain clay of communal life at the school – a tiles have been chosen to reflect the dynamic and engaging space that adjoining landscape and buildings; is functional and flexible and which they are materials which will weather Ibstock Place can enjoy for many well and age gracefully, supporting years to come’.

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Do you wish to evaluate your current catering services, or Organic food initiatives need to know how the offering could be improved? The charity Garden Organic is explains how to successfully run Whether outsourcing or in-house, our nationwide-based able to run a range of training an organic food growing-based specialist education catering consultants are here to help. sessions in regional locations and enterprise project with young Please call us for a no-obligation discussion. individual schools or clusters of people as part of wider learning, schools. Many of the courses can including practical activities Our expertise and advise include: be run as whole day events with that can be linked to enterprise Operational & Strategic Reviews  Value for Money Audits practical activities, or half day initiatives. Tender Support  Healthy Eating Focussed Menus & Marketing or twilight sessions as more of a Catering Capital Projects  Contract Monitoring general overview. Other courses available include: Recruitment & Staff Reviews  5 Star Food Safety Compliance • ‘Organic food growing for ‘An introduction to food growing for school cooks and caterers’ schools’ For further information, please call us on • ‘From plot to pot – planning advises on the use of locally grown tel 0330 133 1238 fruit and vegetables when they are what to grow’ or email [email protected] in season as well as how to start • ‘Organic fruit growing’ growing food for school meals. For further information, please contact: ‘Business enterprise in schools Colette Bond, Head of Education, Garden Organic Email: [email protected] through organic gardening’ Tel: 02476 30821

Catering 43 “There is no better time to explore the introduction of Engineering as a curriculum subject” ~ Nigel Helliwell Educating the Engineers of the Future In 2015 St Faith’s School, Cambridgeshire, introduced Engineering as a curriculum subject for all pupils in Years 3 to 8, with every class having a one hour Engineering lesson as part of their weekly timetable. Head Nigel Helliwell reports...

This initiative has been very well in teams), problem-solving, Royal Academy of Engineering Facilities received by our pupils and parents resilience (as pupils will often guidelines. In the spirit of typical Our Engineering Department and over the past two and half fail) and rigour. The skills learnt engineering activity our curriculum is located within our recently years Engineering has become through the engineering process adopts a project-based, problem- completed £2M Hub. The Hub one of the most popular subjects are precisely the generic skills our solving, team-work approach. links our Science, Engineering, in the school as well as attracting pupils need to lead happy and Over the past two years we have Maths, Computing and Art and recognition and praise from the successful lives. refined our curriculum through Design departments via a huge wider community. St Faith’s won Thirdly, it is practical. Every the benefit of experience and indoor space designed specifically The Times Education Supplement child seems to enjoy making and hindsight and along the way we to encourage large-scale ‘2018 Strategic Education Initiative firing rockets, building bridges, have consulted with supportive cross-curricular activities. The of Year’ award, specifically for the constructing paddleboats etc. It local individual engineering co-existence of these academic introduction of Engineering to the appeals to those children that are leaders, members of the Cambridge departments in one space has curriculum. In the words of the been planned specifically to not academically strong but are University Engineering Department judges, ‘It is a STEM dream and further promote the cross- good problem-solvers and work and representatives of professional is producing our engineers of the pollination of ideas and skills well with others. bodies. future. An admirable, innovative The Curriculum and to sow the seeds of the and challenging project using local Fourthly, it is academic and the ‘engineering way of thinking’ Our engineering activities link expertise and encouragement, academic aspect of the subject in to young minds. It is not directly with pupils’ topics in with superb results. To introduce is a key feature. Essentially, uncommon to enter the Hub to Science, Maths and Computing engineering as a curriculum Engineering is the application find a home-made hot air balloon and even with subjects such as subject from age 7 is a bold and of science, maths, design or being tested or model rockets Art and Music. Our Engineering inspirational step. We were deeply computing to practical projects. being launched. projects have real-world practical impressed.’ Every project has academic theory We are fortunate to have these behind it and supports what relevance and are designed to So why has Engineering been facilities but let’s be clear, the pupils have been studying engage an ‘engineering way of so successful at St Faith’s? Engineering can be taught in Science, Maths or Computing thinking’. Pupils are asked to Firstly, it is highly relevant to effectively in most classrooms lessons. For example, pupils don’t identify the problem, consider the modern world. These days, or Design Technology facilities, simply make and fire rockets, how they can design a solution, it is rare for a minister at the and our programmes of work are they learn Newton’s 3rd law work as a team to build a Department of Education to therefore adaptable for use across and how to calculate centre solution, test the product and make speech without referring a wide range of schools. of mass and centre of pressure evaluate what worked and to the importance of science, for flight stability. Engineering what didn’t work to refine their The Next Steps technology, engineering and has therefore strengthened our solution. An example of the It’s been just over two years since maths (STEM). According to academic provision and we have curriculum in action is our Year we launched our Engineering the CBI, over the next 5 years seen significant improvements in 8 children finding themselves curriculum and already our the engineering, science and the children’s understanding of marooned on a theoretical desert pupils are reaping the rewards. high-tech sectors expect a 90% science, maths and computing island. Their first task is to build In a recent survey of our Year 8 increase in employer demand. since its introduction. a shelter to fit four children, pupils more chose engineering Engineering alone accounts using just newspaper and masking than any other area when asked for around one fifth of the UK Last and certainly not least, tape. Subsequent challenges which areas of work they would workforce at a current level Engineering is interactive and include building a full-scale like career advice on. Our pupils of 5.7m jobs. Engineering UK great fun. I have yet to find da Vinci bridge to support the genuinely appear to enjoy estimates that the UK needs to a pupil who isn’t inspired or weight of individuals crossing it, their engineering experiences, produce 180,000 engineers per enthused by their latest project. designing and building motorised while the practical application year – currently there is a shortfall There is a real sense of awe and paddle boats and subsequently of concepts and methods in of 70,000 per year. wonder during many lessons. converting them into land- engineering lessons is seen Secondly, it develops key Starting Point worthy cars, the premise being to significantly enhance their life skills; team work (all our We devised our Engineering to engineer ways to survive and understanding of Science and Engineering projects are tackled curriculum in accordance with the subsequently escape. Mathematics.

44 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] “There is no better time to explore the introduction of Engineering as a curriculum subject” ~ Nigel Helliwell World-class shooting A Wellington School, Somerset, and now features teams of sixteen teacher has been selected firers and five wind readers and to represent GB in a World tacticians, who compete at distances Educating the Engineers of the Future Championship contest. of 800, 900 and 1000 yards, using Matthew Charlton, who teaches .308 rifles with iron sights. Next Modern Foreign Languages, has year’s competition will be held been selected for the Great Britain at Trentham Ranges, close to Rifle Team for the World Long Wellington in New Zealand. Range Rifle Championship in New Zealand in 2019. This will be Mr. Charlton’s eleventh tour and third World Championship with the Great Britain team, with whom he won the Gold Medal in 2007 (Ottawa) and 2011 (Brisbane). The team World Championship match, the “Palma Match”, was first contested in 1867 in the USA We have received much the practical implications of doing interest about our Engineering so. They will have the opportunity Memorial benefit curriculum, from schools in the to experience for themselves More than £2,000 was raised at a a presentation about Nur because UK and abroad. As a result, we the enjoyment that Engineering fashion show organised by Derby she was the reason why we did generates and in doing so, gain will be running and hosting High School’s Deputy Head Girl in this. The event was a real success the necessary confidence to an IAPS course (outline details memory of a classmate who died. and it was great to see everyone below) in the autumn to answer consider its introduction in their Around 70 students and teachers working as a team. the how and why questions that own schools. Lesson plans and resources will be provided to take helped out at the event which “There were over 70 people prep schools might ask about was in aid of the British Heart away. involved from the students who teaching Engineering. The course Foundation. modelled the clothes to teachers will be aimed at Heads, Deputies, Alternatively we would be happy Prefect Hannah Steele, who has serving food and helping with Directors of Studies, Heads of to host a visit and show you our responsibility for charity fund- music and lighting. Other sixth Engineering lessons in action. Department and teachers of raising, organised the event in formers helped me as they were Science and Design Technology. As 2018 is the Year of the memory of Nur Raza, who died given specific roles and that took Delegates will acquire a clear Engineer, there is no better time when she was in Year 7 following the stress off me. understanding of the benefits to explore the introduction of heart surgery. “Our School Chaplain helped me a to children of teaching them Engineering as a curriculum At the show, students modelled lot too and I would like to thank Engineering, and gain insight into subject. clothes supplied by local retailers. everyone involved, especially the local businesses and the people A raffle and an auction were who supported us on the night.” Outline programme for held on the night and prizes were donated by a range of local Denise Gould, Headteacher of IAPS Engineering Day businesses and individuals. Derby High School, said: “This year’s fund-raising fashion show 09:30 Arrive, register and coffee The total amount raised was resonated with the whole school 10:00 Session 1 Welcome and introduction £2,243.29. The value of teaching engineering MW community and, in particular, Year Hannah organised every aspect The principles behind teaching engineering NIH 13, who have never forgotten their of the show, sourcing clothes, very good friend, Nur. Hannah’s 10:45 Session 2 Hands-on activity 1: Gravity Challenge – problem-solving organising models and arranging organisation was outstanding and 11:30 Coffee break refreshments and prizes. it is very fitting that a significant 11:45 Session 3 Hands-on activity 2: Shelter Building – team work She said: “I am really pleased donation to The British Heart 12:30 Session 4 Resourcing engineering: time, space, materials and with the amount raised. As well Foundation has been possible in expertise MW as the fashion show we also had Nur’s name.” 13:00 Lunch 13:45 Session 5 Hands-on activity 3: Make it Move – application of science 14:30 Session 6 Resourcing engineering: plans, activities and assessments NIH 15:30 Tea and depart

Resources to be provided: • Hand-out notes for sessions 1, 4 and 6 • Lesson plans for the three challenges, sample medium-term plan; sample long-term plan

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 45 New Independent Practical GDPR Schools Yearbook advice for schools The Independent Schools Many schools have read the A new online training course from Yearbook is the highly-respected ICO official documentation but Safeguarding and Duty of Care book of reference of Independent are still unsure about how to experts, EduCare, can help. Schools in membership of the practically begin preparing for ‘A Practical Guide to the GDPR for Independent Schools Council’s the introduction of the new data Education’ has been developed Associations: HMC, GSA, The protection regulation. with an experienced deputy Society of Heads, IAPS, and ISA. What many settings need now is headteacher, who has real, on- Published and updated annually practical advice and strategies to the-ground experience in school since 1889 the ‘Blue Book’ is help them prepare. data management. often referred to as the ‘Bible’ of information on independent schools. The 2017-18 edition features more Are you ready for than 1,200 School Profiles with information on Contact details, “May I say how valuable and Location, Facilities, Numbers, 25th May 2018? Admission, Fees, Scholarships and useful your publication proves Bursaries, Staff, Curriculum, Sports/ itself to be – I regularly direct EduCare’s new online GDPR ‘A Practical Guide to the GDPR Games, The Arts, Extra-Curricular parents to it when considering training course is accurate, for Education’ is aimed at Activities, Community Service, senior school options as well as easy to understand, and most all staff working within an Recent/Planned Developments, using it extensively myself.” Head importantly, provides practical education setting that deal with News and Events. of an IAPS School. advice that can be used every day. personal data. Go to www.educare.co.uk/gdpr to find out more The Digest

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46 Independent Schools Magazine Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Practical GDPR Heads Hunted Among the upcoming head advice for schools and principal appointments: Framlingham College Suffolk Purcell School Hertfordshire St. Cedd’s School Essex If you would like mention made of your upcoming head or principal appointment for which applications are sought please let us know – there is no charge for a listing. Pupils at Bootham Junior School,York, have welcomed a new addition to their classroom – Bootham the Guide Dog puppy. The children raised £1,500 to sponsor the puppy through a series of fun events. There was also a News items, contributions, comments and special Fundraising Day where the children dressed in animal themed clothes, brought their ‘soft suggestions are always welcomed by the editor. toy’ pets to enter the pet show, took part in a sponsored fun run with dog-agility style obstacles Please email to: and brought hand-decorated biscuits! Bootham Junior School chose Guide Dogs for the Blind as their school charity after they were [email protected] inspired by a visit from a guide dog and its owner. Schools featured in this issue include: Abbey Gate College Cranleigh School Giggleswick School Mall School Sheffield High School Ampleforth Abbey Dame Allan’s Schools Hawthorns School Manchester High School for Girls Ashville College Dauntsey’s School Hornsby House School for Girls Sibford School Bancroft’s School Derby High School Ibstock Place School Merchiston Castle School St. Benedict’s School Barnard Castle School Edge Grove School Kelvinside Academy New Beacon School St. Faith’s School Barrow Hills School Edgeborough School King’s Ely School New Hall School St. Mary’s Calne Benenden School Ellesmere College Kingsley School Northcote Lodge School Terrington Hall School Bolton School Exeter School Kingston Grammar School Prebendal School Towers Convent School Bootham School Farlington School Leighton Park School Rossall School Trent College Bromsgrove School Felsted School Lewes Old Grammar School Royal Hospital School Warwick School Cheltenham College Framlingham College Lichfield Cathedral School Rydes Hill Preparatory School Wellington School Cobham Hall School Fulneck School Longacre School Scarborough College West Buckland School

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

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

Advertisement Sales: 01242 259249 [email protected] Independent Schools Magazine 47 UNIFORM & SERVICE THAT STANDS OUT Experts in creating distinctive designs using quality fabrics for the UK’s leading schools. Tailored sales channels for a first class customer service experience.

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