Independent School Parent Senior Summer 2018

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Sports

REPORT

Summer 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

SENIOR EDITION

MOVING ON UP HOW TO NAVIGATE SIXTH FORM

A celebration of our budding super stars

EXPERT ADVICE

on GCSE and A-level results

Rugby School hits a six with girls cricket

NOT OFF TOFASTUNI? TRACK

INTO THE WORLD OF WORK

LATYMER IN UGANDA

Champions of charity

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INDEPENDENT SCHOOL

The Chelsea Magazine Company, Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Tel (020) 7349 3700 Fax (020) 7349 3701 Email editor@independentschoolparent.com EDITORIAL Editor Claudia Dudman Sub Editors Natalie Keeler, Hayley Hamilton Designer Annel Christopher PUBLISHING Publisher & Managing Director Paul Dobson Deputy Managing Director Steve Ross hief in n i l ffi e Vicki Gavin Director of Media James Dobson Head of Circulation Daniel Webb 020 7349 3710 Production www.allpointsmedia.co.uk Printed in England by William Gibbons ADVERTISING Group Advertisement Manager Freddy Halliday Senior Sales Executives Harriet Cottrell, Andrew Mackenzie, Henry Barton DISTRIBUTION Independent School Parent magazine is for parents of children educated in Prep and Senior independent schools across the UK. The Prep and Senior issues are published termly. Parents can subscribe for a free issue at: independentschoolparent.com/register

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL

FREE FOR PARENTS AND PUPILS

Sports

REPORT

Summer 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

SENIOR EDITION

MOVING ON UP HOW TO NAVIGATE SIXTH FORM

A celebration of our budding super stars

EXPERT ADVICE

on GCSE and A-level results

Rugby School hits a six with girls cricket

NOT OFF TO UNI?

FAST TRACK INTO THE WORLD OF WORK

LATYMER IN UGANDA

Welcome Summer is finally here and exam season is well under way, but once it’s all over, you’ve got until August to wait for results day. If you’re not sure what to expect, turn to Talking Heads (page 48) for expert advice on how to put a plan in place.

We’re bringing you lots of lovely sport in this issue, showcasing the fabulous facilities and coaching that independent institutions have to offer. From polo-playing schools (page 38) and success stories at the Commonwealth Games (page 12) to girls’ cricket at Rugby (page 51), we hope you find it a cracking read.

Sue Woodroofe from The Grammar School at Leeds writes that there are plenty of interesting sports to play at schools, which might tempt those children who shun traditional options like football, hockey and netball (page 44). For example, have you ever heard of Tchoukball?

If you’re planning to skip uni and enter the world of work instead, you might be inspired by businesswoman Claudia Lambert’s piece on her schooldays at Wellington College (School Memories, page 82) and her successful career thereafter.

And finally, you can win £500 towards a family holiday to The Azores in our fabulous competition, which you can enter at independentschoolparent.com/win. Enjoy the holidays!

Champions of charity ISP_Cover_Senior Summer 2018 v5.indd 1

25/05/2018 15:41

COVER: Rugby School, Warks Independent School Parent also publishes The Guide to Independent Schools biannually to help you choose the right school. © The Chelsea Magazine Company. All rights reserved. Text and pictures are copyright restricted and must not be reproduced without permission from the publisher. The information contained in Independent School Parent magazine has been published in good faith and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. All liability for loss, negligence or damage caused by reliance on the information contained within this publication is hereby excluded.

Claudia Dudman, Editor

Independent School Parent, independentschoolparent.com

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

3

The IB at Southbank International School is more than an education. It’s a grounding for the increasingly complex and demanding world we live in. A commitment to academic excellence and a uniquely liberal ethos. An inner belief and confidence carried for the rest of life. Through university.

Through a career. Into a lasting impact on the world.

Places for 2018 entry are understandably strictly limited.

Apply today at southbank.org/applynow

38

30 51

26

12 62

WHAT’S INSIDE? Issue 36 Summer 2018

7 12

News Gold Coast 2018

uni is the best option, think again

35

If you’ve chosen not to go to uni, what

Digital Dilemma

can you do to get ahead of the game?

37

What are mindfulness lessons, and what

Is Sport for Everyone?

kind of impact do they have on learning?

38

benefit children who have no aptitude for it

with Latymer Upper’s Uganda project

28

51 56

Ones to Watch A School in 10 Picturees Stamford Endowed Schools, Lincolnshire

64

A Taste of Italy Claudia Dudman visits the idyllic

72

landscape of Tuscany, Italy

Competition Win £500 towards a family holiday in The Azores, Portugal

74

getting pupils’ hearts racing

47

strides in the world of cricket The up-and-coming stars of the sector

62

Curveball Sports The non-traditional sports that are

Rugby on Cricket

Girls at Rugby School are making great

just hockey on horseback?

44

Moving On Up James Barton advises those who are

The Sport of Kings Is polo a game only fit for royalty, or is it

Charitable Champions Fundraising efforts reach far and wide

26

Mindful Matters

social media on teenage mental health Antonia Beary explains how sport can

24

No Plans for Uni? No Problem...

Commonwealth Games Charlotte Avery discusses the impact of

23

In a League of their Own If you think studying at a Russell Group

We look at the sporting stars of this year’s

20

30

Our round-up of hot topics

amos, , amaat am

Calendar Dates for your diary and things to do in

Independent Schools of the Year

the summer holidays

82

School Memories

moving schools for Sixth Form

How to nominate your school in our

An Appetite for Learning

brand new awards

Entrepreneur and founder of Luna Mae

Talking Heads

London, Claudia Lambert recalls her

How to prepare for exam results day

time at Wellington College, Berkshire

How to keep pupils’ minds and bodies in tip-top shape during exam season

Download our free app to read the magazine on your phone or tablet...

48

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD David Moncrieff, Chairman Colin Bell, COBIS Andrew Fleck, Sedbergh School Alison Fleming, Newton Prep Tory Gillingham, AMDIS Aileen Kane, Boarding Schools’ Association Rachel Kerr, Girls’ Schools Association Ian Mason, Independent Schools Council Sir Anthony Seldon, University of Buckingham Julian Thomas, Wellington College Dr Helen Wright, Educational consultant Ben Vessey, Canford School, Dorset Sue Woodroofe, The Grammar School at Leeds Peter Young, Marketing/Brand Consultant

For website and subscriptions, please visit: independentschoolparent.com/register

x + y2 = 4 Keep in touch with us Tweet us @ISParent

Like us on Facebook

Follow us @ISParent.Mag

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

5

NEWS

Our pick of the top parenting and education news

A birthday flypast [Tonbridge School, Kent]

It was certainly a day to remember for those taking part in the school’s CCF Inspection, which welcomed a spectacular flypast by a Chinook helicopter. It was flown by RAF Squadron Leader Charlie Young, who later landed it on The Fifty – one of the sports fields.

Two hundred cadets took part in the special event which this year marked the 80th anniversary of the founding of the RAF Section at the school. The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Hillier, was the Inspecting Officer and the school was delighted to receive a letter of congratulations from The Queen who is Captain-General of the UK CCF.

Students from DLD College completed a series of exercises to hone their leadership skills IT’S ALL ABOUT TEAMWORK [DLD College, London]

YOU’RE HIRED! [Dauntsey’s School, Wiltshire] Upper Sixth Formers Henry Green and Samantha Arnold have landed much sought-after degree apprenticeships and year in industry offers from leading companies including Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems, Airbus and Jaguar Land Rover.

Each offer was won against stiff competition and involved several rounds of interviews, aptitude tests, workshops and problem-solving tasks.

Samantha, who is taking A-Levels in chemistry, maths and physics said: “I wasn’t sure university was the best route for me. When I investigated degree apprenticeships, I realised they are the perfect opportunity to continue education and contribute to a company while getting hands-on experience.”

Fourteen pupils from the newly elected student council embarked on an action-packed trip to East Sussex for a leadership development weekend. The pupils collaborated on raftbuilding and construction projects to demonstrate that they could work successfully within a team. Further experiences included navigating through a low rope assault course while attempting not to spill glasses of water on a tray – great for enhancing guidance and communication skills – and scaling the heights of rock climbing walls to build confidence.

STAR BIOLOGIST HEADS EAST [Abingdon School, Oxford] Sixth Form student Patrick McCubbin has been selected to represent the UK in the International Biology Olympiad (IBO) 2018 in Iran, which takes place in July in Tehran.

The annual IBO brings together the most gifted young biology talents from more than 60 countries around the world. The pupils will be challenged using a series of theoretical and practical problems designed to test creativity and knowledge of biology.

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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x + y2 = 4

Sch ol tweet

Hello new Prefects for 2018-19!

Congratulations to Head Boy Evan, Head Girl Maisie, Deputy Head Boy Bobo and Deputy Head Girl Abbie.

(Oswestry School, @OswestrySchool)

We are the netball champions!

[Queen Ethelburga’s College, North Yorkshire]

After battling it out against the best teams in England Netball’s National Schools Competition in March, the Under-19’s team was crowned the nation’s netball champions. The girls won with an unbeaten record, coming into the competition with the Yorkshire Netball Regional title already under their belt. The National Schools Competition is the biggest in the netball calendar. Bravo!

SPARKLING NEW COMPLEX IS A CELEBRATION OF SPORT [St Mary’s Calne, Wiltshire] RADIO 4’S SUNDAY WORSHIP AT LANCING COLLEGE [Lancing College, West Sussex] A live broadcast of the programme which is routinely enjoyed by 1.7m people took place in the College’s stunning Chapel at the end of April.

The broadcast was led by celebrant Fr. Richard Harrison who is the College’s Chaplain. Members of the public, parents, alumni and Friends of Lancing Chapel all attended the act of worship.

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Writer and presenter Clare Balding gave a jolly speech at the opening ceremony for the school’s new sports complex in May. Also at the occasion were representatives from Badminton England, Wiltshire Cricket, Swindon First and Community First, all of whom will be sharing the new facilities.

As community partners, the school is delighted to open up the complex to community groups outside of school hours. This includes sports training, primary and secondary school initiatives and activities for Youth Action Wiltshire.

Share your school news and tweet us @ISParent

NEW MEDICAL SCHOOLS GIVEN THE ALL-CLEAR [England] Over the next three years, five new medical schools will open in England as part of the Government’s expansion of training places.

Sunderland, Lincoln, Canterbury, Chelsmford and Lancashire are all designated locations for the new schools and places at existing schools are also increasing by 25%.

This means that by 2020 there will be 1,500 students in each year. In total 90% of the places will be outside London and 630 of the 1,500 places will be taken up by budding medical students this September.

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UK NS O. UR IO .C TO ISS OL A M O E AD CH S NG A CT ELD 00 8 RR TA I A ON ERF 84 TO E C SH 6 8 S S@ 25 EA N 01 PL SIO IS

DM A

“I’ve done my mocks and feel ready for the real thing.”

HEADS on the move Alastair Tighe is the new Head of Wells Cathedral School, Somerset, from September.

Winning while they’re spelling [Felsted School, Essex]

Two Year Seven pupils are through to the National Final of the Year Seven Foreign Language Spelling Bee, a competition arranged by Government-supported organisation Routes into Language. Boarder from Switzerland Michaela Holmes, 12, came second and Spencer Taker from Benfleet, also 12, came fourth. They have both earned a place at the National Finals which will be held at the University of Oxford in July.

AN APPETITE FOR LEARNING [Ampleforth College, Yorkshire] You’ve probably heard of the three Rs being the route to academic success, but Ampleforth is also committed to the “three Fs” – food, friends and fresh air – to help pupils navigate exam season. Alongside good teaching and revision planning, the scheme provides students with perspective as they get stuck into their studies. Staff and pupils promote a balanced approach, taking advantage of locally sourced food at mealtimes, enhanced pastoral care and lots of fresh air and exercise.

Andrew Hobbs is the new Head Master of Downside School in Somerset. He begins next term.

Claire Tao has taken up the reins at Merchant Taylors’ Senior Girls’ School, Liverpool. She joined in the Easter term.

Nina Gunson joins Sheffield High School for Girls.

She was Deputy Head at the school from 2011 to 2015.

Georgina Masefield has joined Akeley Wood School in Milton Keynes as their new Head.

ATLANTIC CHALLENGE [Epsom College, Surrey] This month will see 10 Sixth Form College pupils in a race to become the first team to sail an autonomous boat across the Atlantic. The global challenge features competitors from universities, engineering institutions and the US and French Naval Academies, but the college stands alone as the only school to compete. The pupils’ vessel, “That’ll Do 2”, will be launched from the south coast of England in the hope that it will complete the 4,000 mile transatlantic voyage to the east coast of Antigua hopefully by December.

FIRST PAST THE POST [Milton Abbey, Dorset] Alexandra Geldard has won the 2018 Wessex Area Championship in the Pony Racing class for ponies up to 148cm, which took place at Little Windsor in May. Aly rides out for Mark Hillard Racing in Hilton, Dorset before school every day and wants to be a professional flat jockey.

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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SCHOOL SPORT

Gold

COAST 2018 Thanks to top-notch facilities and first-class coaching, independent school pupils and alumni were well represented at the Commonwealth Games in Brisbane. We look at just a few of the sporting stars who blazed a trail‌

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independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

COMMONWEALTH GAMES

Left, Duncan Scott, poolside, at Strathallan School, Perth

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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The 400m track at Millfield is used all year round NAME: Daphne Schrager AGE: 17 SPORT: Para Athletics SCHOOL: illfield chool o erset

F

rom Malmesbury in Wiltshire, Daphne Schrager is a Lower Sixth pupil at Millfield School and was one of the youngest to compete at the Games. Having only taken up athletics in 2015, Daphne’s rise to prominence has been rapid – in her first year in the sport she became a national finalist and quickly

“The fact that Daphne was selected is a testament to her hard work.” – Andrew Pembleton, Director of Sport, Millfield Above, Millfield boasts an impressive athletics track

developed into a performer on the world stage. In 2016 she took another step forward, winning medals at national age-group level. In 2017 she finished fourth in both the 100m and 200m at the World Junior Para Championships in Switzerland, and performed brilliantly at the IPC International in Paris.

The sprinter also joined the other athletes in Team England’s athletics squad to compete at the Carrara Stadium in the T35 100m, where she finished fifth in the Gold Coast Games. She is currently coached by both Alan Richardson and Rob Ellchuk at Millfield School and The University of Bath’s Team Bath, respectively.

“It was an amazing feeling, knowing that the people I look up to were swimming with me.”

NAME: atiana oste in AGE: 15 a ed at the a es) SPORT: i in SCHOOL: illfield chool o erset

T

atiana Tostevin made history as the youngest ever sportsperson selected to represent Guernsey, swimming in the backstroke and freestyle events. Her selection came after a strong performance at the Commonwealth

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Above, Tatiana was delighted to compete at this year’s Games

Youth Games in July 2017 where she qualified for the 50m backstroke final, finishing sixth at just 14 years old, the youngest of the finalists. At the Games, she broke many Island records, including her own in the 100m backstroke, and gained a number of personal bests as well.

Tatiana says of her time at the Games: “It was the most amazing experience. I gained some personal bests and set a few national records for Guernsey. I went out there not knowing what it would be like, and now that I’m back I still can’t believe what I’ve achieved.

“I trained with South African swimmer Chad le Clos on my first day in Brisbane – it was an amazing feeling, knowing that the people that I look up to were actually swimming with me. I was swimming in heats with some of the fastest people in the world. I was really proud to be up ▶ there with them.”

FACILITIES AT MILLFIELD • Top quality athletics track.

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COMMONWEALTH GAMES

A

ma Agbeze led the England Netball team to a stunning Gold-medal-winning performance at the recent Games. Defeating Australia with the final shot of the game to win 52-51 brought a day of celebrations back in the UK. Many teachers who remembered Ama were not shocked that she had reached such great heights in the sport. As one former teacher remarked: “This was a fitting result after all Ama’s hard work. As captain, she deserves special credit for the way the team has obviously gelled.”

Ama’s arrival at Monkton Combe School in 2000 was a catalyst for change in girls’ sport, particularly netball. She was already on the radar of the England selectors when she became a pupil, and soon became a regular for Team Bath Netball. With the appointment of Mia Ritchie as Head

NAME: Ama Agbeze AGE: 35 SPORT: Netball SCHOOL: Monkton Combe, Bath

Above, Ama was a model pupil at Monkton Combe

of Girls’ Games, the programme took another step forward. As a result, the standard of netball at Monkton Combe has raised significantly.

“Ama’s arrival at Monkton Combe School in 2000 was a catalyst for change in girls’ sport, particularly netball.”

PHOTOGRAPHY: PA IMAGES

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laine Johnston, Duncan Scott’s coach at the school, says the Strathallan schoolboy was always “destined for great things” after making history at the Games. The 21-year-old won six medals at the event, the greatest number achieved by a member of Team Scotland at a single Games.

Mrs Johnston says that “from the moment he walked through the pool doors, Duncan showed the signs of being talented. He wasn’t just good at one discipline; he excelled at them all. He had real natural ability and the kind of

NAME: Duncan Scott AGE: 21 SPORT: Swimming SCHOOL: Strathallan, Perth

Above, Duncan picked up six medals at the Games

self-belief that is so important to progressing as a swimmer. In swimming especially, you have to have real mental strength and Duncan had that by the bucket-load. He’s always been really

FACILITIES AT MONKTON COMBE • One indoor and five outdoor netball courts.

• Two sports halls.

• Swimming pool.

• Three fitness suite areas.

• Rugby and cricket pitches.

focused and hard-working.”

Duncan, who left Strathallan School in 2015, is arguably the big success story of these Games. He took home Bronze medals in the 200m freestyle, 4x100m freestyle medley relay, 200m butterfly and 4x200m freestyle relay, before winning Gold in the 100m freestyle and Silver in the men’s 200m Individual Medley.

This was an incredible haul of medals for any athlete, let alone a swimmer competing in only his second Commonwealth Games.

The previous record had been held by fellow swimmer Gregor Tait and shooter Jon Hammond, both of whom took home ▶ four medals apiece at one Games.

FACILITIES AT STRATHALLAN • 21 tennis courts.

• Swimming pool.

• Nine-hole golf course.

• Clay pigeon shooting range.

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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om Daley joined Plymouth College in 2009, just after winning his first international Gold medal of that year. He

Above, despite his injury, Tom won Gold at the Games

“The lessons in life I learnt at the college, not just school lessons, have helped me so much in my career.”

NAME: Katie Robertson AGE: 21 SPORT: Hockey SCHOOL: Kilgraston School, Perth

H

ockey wasn’t Katie’s first discipline in which she competed nationally – she actually began her sports career as a very successful showjumper. However, sadly her career came to an end at the age

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Above right, Katie and her hockey team at a Cup final

of 14 after she was seriously injured in a fall. Determined not to let the injury put her off pursuing a career in sport, Katie took up hockey, and now plays at full international level. She made the Scotland under-18 team at just 16 and attended the Commonwealth Games this year for the first time. The Scottish team performed very well under taxing conditions and placed a respectable seventh overall.

Bronze in Rio. Tom battled through his injury, and the pair were delighted to win Gold, delivering Tom’s fourth Commonwealth title.

FACILITIES AT PLYMOUTH COLLEGE • 25m on-site swimming pool.

• 50m pool and diving boards at nearby Life Centre.

• Fencing suite.

• 3G Astro nearby.

• Strength and conditioning gym.

FACILITIES AT KILGRASTON • Full-size hockey astro.

• Fitness gym.

• Year-round tennis coaching.

• 25m swimming pool.

• Equestrian centre.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ALAMY

NAME: Tom Daley AGE: 24 SPORT: Diving SCHOOL: Plymouth College, Devon

returned to the school earlier this year to speak to the current pupils about how his years at the college have affected him: “The lessons in life I learnt here – not just school lessons – have helped me so much in my career in diving and outside diving.”

Tom unfortunately had to withdraw from the 10m individual platform event due to injury at the Commonwealth Games 2018. However, he was still able to compete in the 10m Synchro event with his partner, Dan Goodfellow, with whom he won

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HEADS UP

CHARLOTTE AVERY

Head of St Mary’s School for girls, Cambridge

DIGITAL DILEMMA Teenage girls who use social media suffer more emotional and social problems than boys, says Charlotte Avery. So what’s the solution?

A

lot of us can recall with horror the major embarrassments of our youth, like the haircut that we thought was trendy but now realise made us look like a permed poodle. Thankfully for those of us who hail from an older generation, apart from a few yellowing photos, these mishaps are confined only to the depths of our own memories.

A “liking” culture

But today, by contrast, it seems we are all living our lives through a lens. While social media and the internet have brought huge benefits, one could also argue that a key characteristic of contemporary culture is over-sharing, and that much of this content offers a distorted version of reality. When users wrongfully measure themselves against these ideals the results can be shocking, leading to catastrophic feelings of self-doubt, depression, low self-esteem, and – as recent research has uncovered –

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independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

body image insecurity and dysmorphia.

The Institute of Social and Economic Research recently tracked happiness levels of 10,000 girls and boys between the ages of 10 and 15, and the results were rather disturbing. They found that teenage girls who use social media suffer more emotional and social problems than boys, and while happiness levels for both genders fell as they got older, the drop was more severe for females. Researchers suggest that these findings imply that girls may have a greater tendency to compare themselves to others, and from that, worry about their own attractiveness. Often this insecurity may materialise in the frequent posting of selfies, with the aim to receive a self-esteem boost from likes and validation. But by doing this, these users are inadvertently opening themselves up to darker emotional repercussions and the dangers of the web.

Tackle the big issues

Mental health needs to stay firmly at the top of the school agenda. At my school in Cambridge, not only do we focus on activities and tools to help our young

Above, research suggests that girls have a tendency to compare themselves to others on social media

people stay healthy and educate them on internet safety, but we also use our assemblies, one-to-ones and class time to discuss difficult issues. We try not to shy away from anything and instead adopt an open approach, so the girls feel that they can come to us should they need to talk.

Entering the online world

It is tempting for parents to ban all devices from their child’s life. However, removing all exposure can mean that some important lessons won’t be learned as they approach adulthood. Instead, take an interest in your child’s online life, learn about the apps they use and install online family protection.

Follow their social media accounts and explain why it’s important that you monitor their online activity – maybe even use some age-appropriate examples so they understand the dangers. Keep all devices in a central area and ensure when they go to bed that their gadgets are left downstairs. Most importantly, speak with your child’s school if you have concerns, and keep talking to your children about online issues and relationships.

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surprisingly different Visit www.rgs.newcastle.sch.uk SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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COMMENT

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eachers from my own schooldays would probably be sceptical at my writing an article on the benefits of sport. And rightly so – any recollection of my 13-year-old endeavours to avoid the 1,500 metres or anything else would elicit amusement at best. Having said that, it’s worth remembering that any child can surprise themselves.

The skills that sport can teach us can prove invaluable for life. Playing as a team requires not only teamwork, but thinking about other people and understanding their strengths and weaknesses. Most of us can’t avoid having to work with others, so acquiring the tools to do it well – sooner rather than later – is key. If teenagers can appreciate that it is not just “all about them”, and also that they have something valuable to contribute, they can more easily develop a balanced self-esteem.

Crucial life lessons

Sport teaches us that, while natural ability may be an advantage, it is nothing without effort and application. Understanding the concept of commitment and practice is equally important – you have a responsibility to your team and learning to make sacrifices helps to build character.

There’s also a lot to be said about the value of resilience: learning how to win and lose with grace and pick yourself up after defeat are skills that should not be underestimated. During a time when your child is under enormous pressure to get things right, sport is an arena where it is almost impossible not to make mistakes.

Indeed, playing sport creates opportunities to learn how to cope when, inevitably, things do not go to plan. At the

ANTONIA BEARY

Headmistress Mayfield School, Sussex

IS SPORT FOR EVERYONE? Antonia Beary explains the ways in which sport can benefit children, even if they have no aptitude for it same time, having to conform to a set of rules is no bad thing for a child who is used to always getting what they want – fair play and respect for the umpire’s decision will go a long way.

erks o the playin field

Moreover, there is no escaping the fact that an increase in the availability of junk food and a reduction in curriculum time devoted to sport is contributing to obesity in today’s young people. Not only does eating healthily enhance performance, but regular physical activity is also necessary if

layin as a tea not only re uires tea ork ut thinkin a out other people and understandin their stren ths and eaknesses

Above: even those who struggle with sport should try to get stuck in

you want to spoil yourself in other areas every now and then.

Expending energy on the playing field, in my experience, enables you to focus more effectively on academic study too.

The skills of concentration, focus and determination are easily transferrable, and success in a match can boost confidence that in turn empowers a person to approach a challenging maths problem with more conviction.

Not to mention, sport is also about having fun. For some, that pleasure will come from being competitive. For others, it’s about spending time with friends, or to let off steam and relax after a stressful day. There is something for everyone.

For the record: that 13-year-old who avoided the 1,500 metres later found herself representing Cambridge in the Boat Race. Who says miracles don’t happen?

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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OUTREACH

T

he phrase “charity begins at home” is not one that applies to Latymer Upper School.

Having enjoyed the role of Latymer’s Charities Coordinator a few years ago, I know how hard our pupils and staff have worked to build partnerships with organisations both in the UK and abroad.

Our most far-flung charitable initiative, The Latymer Uganda Project (LUP), is over 4,000 miles away in East Africa and supports an orphanage and various educational projects in Kampala and Jinja.

Now in its fifth year, it remains hugely popular with our pupils and staff, who tirelessly fundraise to support the LUP and visit the country every other year.

Humble beginnings

Bosco Segawa founded the M-Lisada orphanage (with a focus on music, life skills and deprivation alleviation) in the Katwe slum where he grew up, and his story is one of courage, commitment and determination. It began 20 years ago when, as a 12-year-old orphan, Bosco was left to care for his siblings living on the streets of Kampala, with nothing to his name.

Bosco remembers clearly the day he heard music being played on the streets where he lived. Mesmerised by the sound, he tracked down its origin to a brass band and started to follow them.

This experience sowed the seeds of an idea that would help Bosco to support orphans like himself, and he learnt to create similar sounds with old tin cans and sticks, until he had saved up enough money to buy an instrument. He then got a few of his friends involved and they made a small band, busking just enough to feed himself and his siblings.

He is now the proud founder of the M-Lisada – a two-storey building with a courtyard, library, music room and four dormitories. The orphanage has helped

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RACHEL MONAHAN

Head of Year Nine, Latymer Upper School, London

CHARITABLE CHAMPIONS Charity efforts reach far and wide for Latymer Upper School, where support for a Ugandan orphanage is changing children’s lives for the better over 400 street children and currently houses 50 children, ranging in age from seven to 17. At least another 80 children come in from the streets every day, for showers, food, counselling, music lessons and a safe place to play.

Fighting for the cause

I met Bosco in 2013 when I volunteered at M-Lisada for a few weeks, and it was a truly humbling experience. There is no free education in Uganda and many families simply cannot afford to send their children to school. So, in the spirit of our founder Edward Latymer, who started our school

Above, the LUP has helped hundreds of children get off the streets and gain an education

nearly 400 years ago “to clothe and educate eight poore boyes”, we created the LUP and sponsored eight children from M-Lisada to gain an education. To fund the LUP, we have raised more than £45,000 over the last four years, with non-uniform days, cake sales, sponsored cycle rides, Friday Night Lights, concerts and sponsored sky dives.

It’s a fantastic cause, offering the chance of an education for the M-Lisada children and the opportunity for our pupils to help them do so. The ambition is to continue to widen the net to support other educational organisations in the area, and we think Edward Latymer would be proud!

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JAMES BARTON Director of Admissions, MPW London

James Barton explains what pupils should expect if they’re moving schools for the Sixth Form

MOVING ON UP

I

f you’ve chosen to change schools for the Sixth Form, this can be a real chance to reinvent yourself. And while it might seem daunting at first, you should also try to see it as the start of an exciting new chapter.

For the majority, the Sixth Form seems like a rite of passage they have waited their entire school careers for, but it is difficult to really know what to expect from the experience. It’s this uncertainty that can cause even the most confident to stumble.

Will the day be structured very differently? What will the timetable look like? Will you feel like the new boy or girl

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Above, you may feel like the new boy or girl but it doesn’t last long

again, or will you be joined by others going through the same process? Every student’s experience is different, but this article aims to act as a guide for what to expect.

Choose the right school

The first and most important thing is to be confident in where you choose to study.

This is your journey and your experience will be defined by what you make of it.

You should expect a jump in the intellectual demands being placed on you and feeling like you chose the right school can make this difficult period more comfortable. Despite the A-Level reforms, there is still a significant gap between

SIXTH FORM

Below, if you are going to a college, you won’t have to wear uniform

being parachuted into pre-existing social groups will dissolve if you adapt quickly.

What is new becomes old within a few days, and you will soon be part of the furniture.

The same old timetable?

This will likely have a familiar structure to it, only now there will be “free” periods, where before the timetable used nearly every slot to contain the full complement of 10 GCSEs. Lessons will probably be longer too, requiring a higher level of engagement. Sport will still be there – and at a school, it is likely to remain compulsory. Expect extra-curricular activities, added responsibilities and if boarding, a slightly later curfew.

On the other hand, you may be moving across the sector into the college world.

Gone are the uniforms: now the approach is more undergraduate in feel; the environment more liberal in style. Here, you will find a different type of approach, often a more sophisticated, adult learning style that helps to instil the skills, motivation and confidence needed by students to flourish at university.

Tuition is likely to be different – more tailored to the individual and in smaller groups. It’s important that you’re also taught to be more intuitive at Sixth Form in readiness for tertiary level study.

TOP TIPS • Grow up – adapt to a new way of learning for Sixth Form.

• Be open to it. Don’t be afraid of change. Whether you’re moving or not, Sixth Form is a new start.

• Write your own narrative. Be the person you want to be. Use Sixth Form as a way of breaking free from the herd mentality of school life up to GCSE.

Regardless of where you go, you’re now at the business end of your school career and you should use the next two years to work out what you want to do next. Expect more focus on careers, CVs, university courses and visits, as well as discussions on gap years now you’re old enough to work out the merits of one.

A new environment for Sixth Form can often be the best source of inspiration.

What should you expect? A more adult learning experience. What should they expect of you? A more adult student. Try to embrace this new dynamic because it will certainly enhance the experience you get. Regardless of anything else, enjoy it!

GCSE and AS-Level and this has a habit of surprising students, but by balancing work and new experiences well you will be fine.

Change for the better

Nothing changes the dial so much like moving to a new school. But while there will be some new rules to adhere to, most will not be so demonstrably different to what you’re already used to. In fact, you’ll probably feel a sense of déjà vu.

You may feel like the new person for the first few weeks, which is perfectly natural considering external intakes to Sixth Forms are often low. But that feeling should pass fairly quickly, and the effects of

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

27

PASTORAL CARE

Y

HANNAH POMROY

Director of Studies, Ampleforth College, North Yorkshire

ou might have heard of the “three Rs” being the route to academic success, but here at Ampleforth College, we are also focused on the “three Fs” – food, friends and fresh air to keep pupils happy and healthy during exam season.

Our school prides itself on its academic ambition and believes that, alongside good teaching and revision planning, the rural, holistic education on offer provides students with perspective as they get stuck into their studies.

Food, glorious food

With protein-rich homemade yoghurt at breakfast time, which helps pupils feel fuller for longer, to starchy vegetables that keep them going after lunch, we ensure that details of food provenance are shared with pupils each mealtime, as it encourages students to feed their brains.

The college also encourages children to build breaks into their revision plan and house-parents keep an eye on the amount of water students are drinking. We also ensure there’s extra bread for evening revision toast breaks.

A friend in need is a friend indeed

This year, our staff will be testing out an Emotional Health and Wellbeing Policy, which was written by former Deputy Head Boy and Girl, Freddie Fawcett and Alex Madden. These tips include: • ALGEE: Assess the risk, listen, give reassurance, encourage, and external (it may be that a friend needs external help, and cannot solve problems on their own).

• TIME: Be mindful of how much time a student gives to supporting a friend.

• LOOK AFTER YOURSELF: maintain a good balance of seeing friends, partaking in hobbies and studying.

Pupils are also encouraged to “redecorate” their bedroom or revision

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AN APPETITE FOR LEARNING It’s half way through exam season, but are your pupils keeping their minds and bodies in tip-top shape?

Hannah Pomroy shares some valuable words of wisdom Above, a little fresh air can hugely benefit pupils’ wellbeing

spaces with the topics they need the most help with. Flash cards help condense information into bitesize points about a particular subject, which can encourage pupils to get creative and condense their revision notes from 100 pages to 10 pages, and eventually to a 10-letter mnemonic.

A breath of fresh air

We run a two-week timetable to maintain a balanced curriculum, and of the 78 periods each fortnight, 15% are for sport and games. Pupils can take full advantage of their surroundings and a range of

extra-curricular activities, from forestry to golf or horse-riding. A few of the boarding houses are also home to a “House Dog” – St Margaret’s have Aoife, the Irish wolf hound, and spaniels Basil and Suki will join Junior House in September. All “House Hounds” are available for walks and cuddles for those who are missing their four-legged friends at home.

The school also provides one-to-one sessions with every student each week as part of the tutoring system, which means they receive the dedicated support necessary to flourish during exam season.

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ELIZABETH IVENS

Freelance journalist

Students outside the Royal Holloway campus in Egham, Surrey

IN A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN

If you think studying at a Russell Group university is the best option, think again.

There are many other high-ranking universities offering outstanding courses, excellent student satisfaction and employability rates, says Elizabeth Ivens 30

independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

HIGHER EDUCATION

Right, the city of Bath is a UNESCO world heritage site

clear who is in the Russell Group. For instance, universities like Bath are often considered to be Russell Group, but aren’t!”

Bath, along with St Andrews, are indeed often mistaken for members of the Russell Group because of their high performance across the board in various league tables.

A better experience

S

lowly sneaking up on the heels of that heralded marker of school academic prowess – how many pupils get into Oxbridge – has been a new statistic: rather, how many Russell Group successes a school has.

Although it was formed way back in 1994 as a way to represent its members’ interests in the wider world, in the last few years the words “Russell Group” seem to have passed into the common parlance of teachers, parents and students as synonymous with the best universities.

And yet the Russell Group was never intended to be a singular marker of university excellence, even though its current 24 members undoubtedly include many of the UK’s elite universities.

universities as they do, because it gives the impression that not being Russell Group is somehow inferior?

Professor Katie Normington, Senior Vice Principal of Royal Holloway College at the University of London, which has just been named in the top 20 for teaching (TEF) and research (REF) in the UK, believes that some of the schools who promote the excellence of Russell Group universities may not even be clear about who is in it and what it stands for.

She says: “I think schools don’t know properly what Russell Group stands for, and yet they are promoting Russell Group universities to their students as representing quality. Some are not even

Professor Normington is adamant that many non-Russell Group universities like Royal Holloway offer better student experience and courses for a number of reasons, often including size and curriculum.

She says: “We are mid-size, which is a strength. Instead of 600 new students a year, we have 200 and we get to know our students. It allows support, both academically – we have a new personal tutor system – and pastorally – we have really good mental health support. We are very aware that the moment young people leave home, there can be reactions to that and to a new environment.”

Many of the best universities for many courses are also frequently found outside the Russell Group. At the University of Bradford, its occupational therapy course is ranked second in the UK in The Complete University Guide League Tables 2018.

Occupational Therapy Lecturer and Admissions Tutor Pam Toothill believes that students who take time to research the course choose it because of its reputation.

She says: “We are ranked second in the UK, and our students have told us that this is a key factor throughout their decisionmaking process.” ▶

A self-selected group

In fact, the original grouping of Russell Group universities was entirely selfselected. Many others have since chosen not to be members, and there are practical reasons why they do not seek to join.

Membership is clearly no bar to success, as many of them regularly feature in the lists of leading universities for academic results, student satisfaction and for courses.

So are schools doing their students a disservice by promoting the Russell Group

Left, students at the University of Leicester

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

31

HIGHER EDUCATION

Size is also an advantage at Bradford, enabling the team to ensure a wide-ranging curriculum with outstanding career prospects – 90% of last year’s occupational therapy graduates are now working.

Research is key

At Leicester, where the top 30 student courses include highly-sought after ones, such as medicine and law, millions have just been spent on a state-of-the-art £42 million new medical centre, the biggest investment in medical education and applied research in the UK for a decade.

Student Recruitment Manager Elliot Newstead has said that he believed students were now spending more time

“Royal Holloway is mid-size. Instead of 600 new students a year, we have 200. And we really get to know them.” researching courses, but often fell down on visiting them: “I find it surprising that there’s still a fair number of students I speak to at our applicant visit days who haven’t attended an open day so are applying ‘blind’. I would say visiting universities before applying is essential, as there’s nothing that can quite replace the research one can do during an open day.”

At Royal Holloway, Professor Normington believes students must look hard at the courses they are interested in and the

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content of that course at different institutions.

She says: “Just take a course like geography – the choice of modules on offer really ranges at different institutions.”

Normington believes non-Russell Group universities often need to work harder to distinguish themselves, but that this often leads to cutting-edge curriculums.

Give yourself a challenge

She urges, “Look carefully for a course that will challenge and stretch you. It is not always the universities with the long traditions that make sure their curriculums are up-to-date. At Royal Holloway, some of our most popular courses include psychology, geography and music. Our psychology department in particular is outstanding in the research field.”

Tthe University of Bath also boasts some of the most ground-breaking courses in the country, which has helped to secure its reputation as one of the leading universities in the UK. Mike Nicholson, Director of Student Recruitment and Admissions, thinks that this helps to ensure they do not lose out to Russell Group universities on rival courses.

He says: “We are not ultimately losing out – our reputation is recognised, and

Above, enjoying campus life at the University of Leicester.

Below, the University of Bradford

many of our courses rank highly in the league tables. This is a big attraction for students, because so many now quite rightly think about their future employment prospects when applying.”

The university has a plethora of courses that regularly top the rankings for graduate career prospects, including architecture and civil engineering, psychology, business management and computer science.

David Howells, Head of Undergraduate Admissions at Bath, says: “There are some areas where universities offer subjects that look similar on the surface but are actually quite different – sport and exercise science degrees would be an example.”

And what of any elitism barriers which exist in the mind’s eye of schools and the wider world? Mike Nicholson from the University of Bath has some useful advice: “At Bath, the hope is that students will break down any Russell Group barrier if they look at the wider rankings for universities and at what suits them.”

Meanwhile Elliot Newstead at Leicester urged schools to stop using Russell Group as a measure. He says: “I do think that successful non-RG institutions can offer students a wonderful experience with outstanding career outcomes.

Professor Normington at Royal Holloway agrees: “Students here graduate with a University of London degree just as they would at some of our Russell Group colleagues within the university. It doesn’t measure quality.”

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Inspiring Individuals

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Inspiring boys from 3 to 18 years old, Campbell College is situated in a stunning 100-acre woodland campus five minutes from George Best Belfast City Airport. Just a short flight from London, we welcome students from all over the world with boarding fees starting from only £4,698 a term.

To find out more, visit www.campbellcollege.co.uk

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

33

Why Stamford?

independent schools for independent minds

Our Schools work together to provide an outstanding day and boarding education for girls and boys aged 3 to 18. We take pride in developing curiosity and a love of learning while helping to shape well-rounded individuals who are fully equipped for the next stage in their lives.

Call us now to book a visit to our outstanding schools.

01780 750311 | stamfordschools.co.uk

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CAREERS

CLAIRE GRANADOS Principal, Quest Professional

NO PLANS FOR UNI? NO PROBLEM...

F

If your child isn’t going to university, what can they do to successfully enter the world of work and get the edge over their undergraduate peers? Claire Granados shares her top tips

or many students, academia isn’t the right path – either they don’t achieve the grades they need for university or they simply feel that uni won’t bring out the best in them. For some dynamic youngsters, it can prove more valuable to enter the professional world instead, and begin their journey up the ladder three years before their peers.

At Quest Professional, we work with employers who prioritise the skills and talents of an individual, rather than the number of letters after their name. But what skills does a student need to have, to give them the edge over other candidates?

The top five are:

Above, presentation is key when introducing yourself to future employers

Sector awareness

Candidates who demonstrate they have a good awareness of the business and wider marketplace will move to the top of an employer’s hiring list. Knowledge of companies’ main competitors, threats and governing principles will also impress an interviewer.

Communication

This encompasses strong presentation skills, audience awareness and knowing how to summarise information concisely.

Time management

Teaching students not to be chained to emails, to prioritise tasks and meet multiple deadlines is another important skill. Good candidates should be able to

demonstrate that they can cope with multiple tasks and perform under pressure.

Positivity

Businesses want employees who not only take pride in their work but are also enthusiastic and keen to motivate others.

Showing that you can remain clear-sighted under pressure is important too.

Teamwork

It’s crucial that employees communicate well with their colleagues. Those who are polite and personable will always impress managers and should mark them out as future candidates to move up the ladder.

To find out more about Quest Professional, visit questprofessional.co.uk

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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MINDFULNESS

RICHARD BURNETT

Housemaster, Tonbridge School, Kent

Richard Burnett explains why mindfulness is a fully embraced subject on the curriculum

W

hile mindfulness is something that might feel quite new in education, at Tonbridge we’ve been doing it for about 15 years. In fact, we were the first school in the UK to put it on the curriculum in early 2010, and TV crews descended upon us to report something which, at that point, seemed a bit weird. But we kept doing it because it worked, and our pupils not only enjoyed it, but they found it helpful, too.

For some it is all about “anchoring” – feeling grounded and resilient in the face of exam stress, a lack of sleep or relationship difficulties. For others, it is about “flourishing”, being at your best not just academically but in sport and music.

If it seemed a bit fringe when the TV crews came, five years later everything has

MINDFUL MATTERS Above, pupils at Tonbridge take part in mindfulness lessons

changed. Thousands of teachers have been trained to bring mindfulness to their schools. Oxford University also now has a whole wing of its Department of Psychiatry dedicated to researching and developing mindfulness, and it is recommended by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence as a treatment for depression, too; over 150 MPs and Peers have tried it, and even the army and police force are interested.

If you’ve ever sat down and had a go, this might not surprise you. If your mind is endlessly chattering at you (usually about what is going wrong), why not train it to attend to what is actually happening?

Try turning your attention towards that thing you do 20,000 times a day but rarely notice: your breathing. Stretch out your toes and feel your feet on the floor. Listen to whatever sounds you can hear. If you’re drinking a cup of tea or coffee as you read this, take a sip and really taste it.

The importance of staying completely

present with whatever you are doing is never more true than in sport. Jonny Wilkinson is said to have described mindfulness as his “secret weapon”; the Pep Guardiola of American basketball, Phil Jackson, also taught mindfulness to every player he coached. Even Nike have just paired up with Headspace, to create sports-specific meditations.

At Tonbridge, Year 10 are taught the .b curriculum, a series of 10 lessons and animations created by the Mindfulness in Schools Project, a charity I co-founded with other teachers who were passionate about mindfulness in education.

There are advanced classes on Wednesdays for Years 11, 12 and 13 who want to deepen their practice, as well as drop-in sessions on Friday mornings.

Teachers and support staff can also learn mindfulness, both for their own wellbeing and (hopefully!) to set an example for those they look after.

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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POLO SCHOOLS

Polo is accessible for pupils of all ages at Heathfield School, Berkshire

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independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

POLO SCHOOLS

THE SPORT OF KINGS Is polo a game only fit for royalty, or just hockey on horseback? Thalia Thompson finds out…

P

olo easily has the claim to being the oldest team sport in the world, originating over 2,000 years ago in ancient Persia. The game then spread across the Byzantine, Moghul and Chinese empires and was played by princes, sultans and kings. Later, British tea planters discovered the game in the 1850s, and it became popular with cavalry officers back in England. From here, ranchers and settlers took the sport out to Argentina, America and Australia.

These days, polo has an undeniably elite image. It’s still a favourite game for the royals, too – Princes Charles, William and Harry have all appeared to advantage on the polo field.

Professional teams are usually financed by a “patron”, a wealthy ▶

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: PA IMAGES

Fit for royalty

39

POLO SCHOOLS

Polo facts • Two teams of four riders compete to score the most goals.

• Matches are divided into chukkas, and school matches have three chukkas.

• Players hit the small white ball with the long edge of their mallet.

• All players hold the mallet in their right hand, using their left hand to hold the horse’s reins.

• At half time it’s traditional for spectators to come on to the pitch to help stamp down the divots, or pieces of turf churned up during play.

• Polo ponies are technically horses, but are always referred to as ponies.

• The Association of Polo Schools and Pony Hirers (APSPH) recommends that parents looking for a polo school ensure that the school has either a Riding Establishment Licence or is a member of The APSPH.

individual with a passion for polo. And at the highest level, polo can be an eyewateringly expensive game. In some big competitions, play is so fast that riders need a fresh pony each chukka, and top players change horses even more frequently.

Against expectations

But polo isn’t just a sport exclusive to the upper classes – in certain circumstances, it can be easily accessed and played by all.

Most polo clubs offer taster sessions from about £50 an hour, and there is also a thriving polo scene in independent schools. In fact, as many as 50 Senior Schools and 12 Prep Schools are members of the Schools and Universities Polo Association (SUPA), who organise regular tournaments and competitions.

Amanda Welin, parent and equine specialist vet, founded the polo club at the Dragon School in Oxfordshire, and it’s

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independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

Above, the girls’ polo team at Heathfield School, Berkshire

“Polo can claim to be the oldest team sport in the world, originating over 2,000 years ago in ancient Persia” considered a popular club at the Prep School, regularly winning medals in the SUPA National Championships.

She actively encourages complete beginners to give polo a go, explaining that they tend to use “schoolmaster ponies” in the beginning, which are highly trained

Players get passionate about the sport at Shrewsbury School

horses with the experience and ability to help young riders learn.

Amanda is a great advocate of the benefits of playing polo. “Equestrian sports are proven to increase concentration in and out of the classroom, and to improve leadership skills,” she says.

“To make a horse obey your commands, your mind and physical actions need to be working together, and that’s why horses teach leadership so well.”

It's not your average team sport

For Dr Graham Mallard, the Master in charge of polo at Cheltenham College, Gloucestershire, where they have played polo for over 20 years, the benefits of mastering this sport are tangible.

“I think the sense of achievement that the students get from polo is more acute than in other sports. I had a couple of lads who had never ridden before, and it was a huge thing for them to get on a horse… one of them didn’t let go of the pommel until Christmas.

“But in the next term, that same person was riding and wielding a mallet at the same time, and then in the next term he had his first ever match. The confidence that gave him really did have a ▶

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The APSPH, established in 2013, recommend that parents looking for a polo school or to hire ponies ensure that the Polo School has either a Riding Establishment License or are a member of The APSPH. All our listed members have their Riding Establishment License expiry dates published on our website.

Please visit our website www.apsph-polo.org.uk or contact us at enquiries@apsph-polo.org.uk

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POLO SCHOOLS

“Equestrian sports are proven to increase concentration in and out of the classroom and to improve leadership skills.”

demonstrable spill over effect in other areas of his life at college. It was an amazing experience for him.”

A battle of the sexes

As a team sport, polo can also bring different types of students together. Gill Glimmerveen, Girls’ Schools Section Manager for SUPA and Equestrian Co-ordinator at Heathfield School, Berkshire, explains that polo is one of the very few sports where teams can be mixed sex and girls’ teams are not at a disadvantage against the boys.

Pupils play polo at Shrewsbury School

Above, polo is a popular sport at The Dragon School, Oxford

“At Heathfield, we do play the boys’ teams, and I think we are as good, if not better than them! Players are selected for teams by ability not age – I’ve even seen 11-year-olds trounce teenagers during matches. In essence, polo is a game that's open for all, which means it really is a level playing field.”

These benefits of concentration, confidence and team work are truly invaluable, but what really sets polo apart is the sheer excitement of the game.

“I have to say it’s more of a passion than a sport,” adds Gill Glimmerveen.

This passion is equally evident at Shrewsbury School, Shropshire. They aren’t based in the traditional polo heartland with a choice of professional polo clubs nearby, but they still recognise the enormous appeal of the game.

As Master in charge of polo, Jim Sheppe puts it: “Once these kids get into it, they never look back. People say it’s like playing chess at 35 miles an hour. To an extent it’s a contact sport, more than people realise. It has all the ingredients – speed, focus, team work. It is fast and furious, and players get pretty passionate about it!”

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

43

Having fun in the pool increases pupils’ confidence in the water

CURVEBALL SPORTS

D

rop in on a school PE lesson now the summer term is underway, and you might expect to see cricket, rounders or tennis in full swing. But if you were walking past the tennis courts during Year Seven games at The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) this week, you’d have seen pupils trying something completely different: tchoukball.

Tchoukball is perhaps the perfect team game that’s designed to minimise the risk of injury – it’s non-contact and can be played by people of all abilities, shapes and sizes. Boys and girls play together, and it’s one of a number of sporting

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independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

Sue Woodroofe, Principal of The Grammar School at Leeds, looks at the non-traditional sports that are getting pupils’ hearts racing

Share your thoughts on Twitter @ISParent

activities introduced here in response to our “pupil voice” survey, in which students told us they wanted a greater variety of fitness clubs.

Getting teens involved

By introducing non-competitive, fun activities that are still challenging, we’ve found that we’re increasing our take-up of sport and fitness. This can come in the form of an after-school spin or circuits session, lunchtime yoga, dance or basketball, or a development swim session.

The Couch-to-5K initiative is another great alternative to cross country for aspiring runners.

This approach is backed up by numerous studies that reveal an alarming

number of young people start to opt out of physical activity especially during their teens. According to the 2017 Impact Report by the Youth Sport Trust, only 22% of children aged five to 15 in England meet the Chief Medical Officer’s recommended 60 minutes per day of moderate to vigorous activity. Girls are particularly inactive, with only 8% aged between 11 and 18 meeting this target, while twice as many boys of the same age achieve it.

The report highlights the ways in which lack of exercise can affect wellbeing and work prospects, such as the health risks associated with childhood obesity, increasing mental health struggles among teenagers, and a lack of the teamwork skills and resilience that regular participation in sport can develop.

COMMENT

Spin classes are particularly popular with pupils GSAL won its first basketball title this year

our PE teachers and a team of five graduate sport coaches, who bring new ideas and enthusiasm and relate well to the children; after all, they’re not really that much older than our Senior School students! Graduate sports coach Rob Withers is our resident tchoukball expert, who introduced a hugely popular club last year.

Record-breaking results

Another area where inspirational coaching has paid dividends is basketball, not traditionally associated with independent schools. We’ve just won our first ever title, the U16 Leeds championship, competing against mainly state schools from across the city, and can now field three teams (U14, U16 and U18) which include both boys and girls.

We had only one team five years ago, when coach Voise Winters joined us with

As an independent school, we are fortunate to have the resources and the freedom to try out new things, to encourage our reluctant sportspeople, and enhance our offer for those who need no persuasion to join in. If pupils see the benefits of exercise and find something they enjoy now, we believe they will carry forward the habit into their adult lives.

Providing this varied menu of sporting fare has been a combined effort between

an impressive track record in the game.

Voise’s 17-year professional career took him from the NBA to Europe, and watching him in action you can see how his passion for the game motivates his players, who are at ease under his guidance and address him as “Coach”, not “Sir”.

Voise says there are no superstars in basketball – everyone gets their chance to play and score, and it brings people together as students from all backgrounds form new friendships on court.

Nonetheless, mainstream competitive sport remains alive and well at GSAL. This year we reached national finals in netball, football and hockey, with a title in netball, while our rugby first XV had a good cup run. The new activities complement our traditional sports offer because our team players benefit from the additional fitness activities, while more pupils get a taste for playing on behalf of the school. We can now field not just A and B teams, but C teams as well!

Back to tchoukball, and it seems Year Seven couldn’t get enough of it. Isabel says she’s definitely going to tchoukball club, Olive was thrilled that she had managed to catch the ball, and Jake felt that everyone picked it up really well. I believe what we can all take from this is that it’s always good to try something new!

Year Seven had great fun playing tchoukball

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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AWARDS

Independent School Parent Launches Awards Programme

T

his summer Independent School Parent has launched Independent Schools of the Year 2018, an awards programme designed to celebrate the success stories of schools and their students across the UK. Showcasing the excellence of the educational experience available to students of all backgrounds, these awards applaud the varied ways in which independent schools prepare young people for their future lives.

The awards are free to enter for all independent schools that are members of an association in membership of the Independent Schools Council. With 18 individual categories, the awards reflect the breadth and diversity of life in an independent school and acknowledge the contribution these institutions make to their local communities.

Stories from the winning schools will feature

at the heart of this magazine’s campaign celebrating an independent school education.

The awards will be chaired by Dr Helen Wright, supported by a panel of judges made up of leading educationalists.

More information can be found at: www.independentschoolsoftheyear.co.uk

How to apply

Just complete the entry form on the website: www.independentschoolsoftheyear.co.uk/ entry-form

What you need to tell us

A narrative of no more than 500 words which: • tells the judges a success story – be it of the school, a team, group or class • describes the positive effect had on the wider student experience • explains the profound impact achieved

Supporting evidence

Evidence consists of photos, videos, inspection reports and newspaper cuttings – anything which substantiates and underpins your story.

Nominations close on 18th July 2018.

Celebrating success

The announcement of the winners will be the centrepiece of a PR campaign in early 2019, led

by Independent School Parent and working in co-operation with a number of professional associations. Running across a raft of media platforms, it will challenge widely-held misconceptions about independent education and celebrate the contribution schools continue to make to our country’s success by showcasing our winners’ stories.

For more information visit: www.independentschoolsoftheyear.co.uk/about

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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EXPERT ADVICE

TALKING HEADS What can GCSE and A-Level pupils do to prepare for exam results day in August?

Andrew Johnson

Julian Noad

St Benedict’s School, Ealing

Oswestry School, Shropshire

When it comes to your A-Levels, think through all your options in advance. If your grades exceed your offer, is Adjustment a desirable option? And in the event of not getting your required A-Level grades, what is your Plan B? Would you benefit from a gap year, doing voluntary or paid work, perhaps overseas? Is re-taking and reapplying an option?

Also, try to get your results as early as possible on the day – you typically have a window of 24 to 48 hours in which to act if you need to find an alternative course.

Remember, these things have a habit of working out for the best, and in a year’s time everything will look different.

IGCSE and pre-U results are released on 14th August, and A-Levels and GCSEs on the 16th and 23rd respectively. Whatever you await, have realistic expectations and learn about the options available. Get plenty of rest to avoid heightening emotions with fatigue, and tune out results traffic on social media. Remember that GCSEs in England are now graded 9 to 1, where 9 and 8 are equivalent to the old A*. IGCSEs from Cambridge, as well as GCSEs in Northern Ireland and Wales still retain the letter grades. Also consider that there are many paths to any goal and that one result won’t shape your whole life.

Students open their results at St Benedict’s School

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Below, pupils at Oswestry School

CJ Townsend Felsted School, Essex

The key to a successful day is to prepare well and having a plan of action for all outcomes is really helpful. It could mean a change of subject options for the Sixth Form or a change of destination for university. Both are unsettling but neither is terminal, and the outcome is often better for the student in the end. Speak to the school – it will have expertise to offer. For parents, praise the things that have gone well, look for solutions and help your child to move forward. While results are important, it is far more important to have a happy child, who knows that their parents can cope just as well with failure as with success.

The beautiful grounds at Ellesmere College

Stephen Mullock

Simon Smith

Ellesmere College, Shropshire

Rydal Penrhos School,

Research and supportive communcation is crucial in preparing for the challenges ahead.

Every exam board has a resource area for parents and pupils to help you understand how results day will unfold and it’s a good idea to read this in advance. All pupils at Ellesmere are given a support booklet that’s discussed in tutor sessions so the process is smooth and calm and we also aim to empower students by addressing issues such as time management and emotional intelligence throughout the year. We encourage students to enter a dialogue about the concerns they have in order to alleviate their fears and doubts.

Colwyn Bay

Right, a student at Rydal Penrhos

Keeping busy in the run-up to results day and resisting the urge to talk about what grades you might get is a good start, but also try to read all the information that’s relevant to you and make yourself aware of relevant contacts and phone numbers you may need on the day. Act promptly and calmly if this is the case and remember that it’s always better for the pupils, rather than the parents, to be the ones making contact with tutors, heads of years and universities. Investigate how to appeal a result and the timescales, and if the day brings what you’d hoped for, don’t forget to thank your teachers.

Sixth Form Prefects at Felsted, Essex

Young people take class at Ellesmere College, Shropshire

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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GIRLS CRICKET

Maia Bouchier was the first girl to play at Lord’s as part of a school’s XI last year

RUGBY ON CRICKET The school that’s world famous for inventing the game of rugby is also making great strides in girls’ cricket, writes Amanda Hunter

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

51

GIRLS CRICKET

E

ngland’s World Cup win against India last year transformed women’s cricket, inspiring hundreds of girls to take up the sport. And it not only marked a triumph for the country, but for the sport itself, springboarding the game for women across the world with more than 50 million people watching the group stages.

A long way, then, from its British roots in 1745, when the first ever women’s cricket match report was recorded between two villages in Surrey. Although famous for being the birthplace of rugby, cricket has been played at Rugby School from the early 19th century. It’s home to the UK’s oldest cricket pavilion and was also one of the first schools to employ professional cricket coaches.

Above, Rugby’s cricket professional Michael Powell with rising star Maia Bouchier

isin stars on the field

Fast forward to the 21st century, and you’ll now find girls seriously focused on honing their batting, bowling and wicket keeping skills alongside the boys.

The girls give the boys’ cricket teams a run for their money

The girls at Rugby have also had an ideal female cricketing role model in former pupil, Maia Bouchier. Maia, now 19, who joined Rugby as a sports scholar (cricket) aged 13, made her mark both at the school and also externally, as a member of

Middlesex Women’s County team. The rising star, who spent the winter playing with the Auckland Hearts States team, became the first girl to play at Lord’s as part of a school’s first XI last year.

It was Rugby’s cricket professional, Michael Powell, a former Warwickshire Cricket Captain and England ‘A’ player, who introduced girls’ cricket to the school’s sports programme three years ago.

Animated and enthusiastic, Michael has seen the take up rise to 70 girls across all-year groups this term.

“The women’s cricket World Cup win last year has undoubtedly had an effect on girls’ enthusiasm for the game, but also the amazing achievements of women representing Great Britain in sport as a whole,” he says. “There’s now a clear path for women in cricket – you can play at school or a club and represent a regional side right up to international level, which wasn’t the case 15 years ago.

It’s also a game that can break gendered barriers across teams. With bowling speeds often comparable between boys and girls, many find themselves in mixed teams.

“Maia was comfortable playing in boys’ ▶

he o en’s cricket orld up in last year has undou tedly had an e ect on irls’ enthusias for the game.” - Michael Powell, cricket professional, Rugby School 52

independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

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SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

53

GIRLS CRICKET

teams and they acknowledged and respected her cricketing talent and skills.”

tea

e ort

With strong encouragement from Michael and the whole-hearted support of Rugby’s Director of Sport, Debbie Skene, the increased uptake has enabled the school to enter girls’ cricket teams for fixtures across all year groups.

“We currently have 10 or 11 boys’ teams and three for girls, but I can see we will be looking at senior teams next year, along with Bs and even Cs – the potential is so exciting,” Michael adds.

Rugby is also dedicated to providing top cricket coaching for all the girls regardless of their level of play. Cricket sessions are timetabled to enable Michael and his coaching team to rotate between sessions, ensuring all girls and boys get proper coaching and playing time in line with Rugby’s ethos of “nobody on the bench”.

asy access for irls

There’s also a programme in place that allows training all year round on the

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independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

school’s astros and indoor facilities, with extra Sunday and one-to-one sessions for players. Equipment is all provided, making it easy for girls to join in, but Michael says they’re now starting to buy their own kit or have an eye on their brother’s.

“When we’ve had this number of girls playing with us, we will have had more time to train those passionate about their cricket to take the next step,” he says.

Rugby School already has six cricket squares, but Michael and Debbie are now considering adding further squares to offer

Above, Maia was welcomed with open arms onto the boys’ cricket team

even more home games and allow for the increase in girls’ teams.

“We want to be a flagship school for girls’ cricket,” says Michael. “We have already started coaching camps at Prep Schools to engage pupils at an earlier age and training their staff how to coach cricket – it’s a very transferable skill.”

“We currently have another excellent female player who has already joined the boys’ team, so she’s another one to watch,” he adds. “I can see I will be arranging a girls’ cricket tour soon!”

OPENEVENINGS Where outstanding performing arts meets academic excellence Register at: www.artsed.co.uk

Co-educational Day School, Chiswick W4 1LY Sixth Form Entry: Tuesday 25 September, 6pm 11-13+ Entry: Wednesday 26 September, 6pm

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We believe in every child which is why we seek to provide a quality education to students of all ages and abilities.

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SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

55

1 Jessica Baker, 15

Equestrian Rendcomb College, Gloucestershire Jessica has enjoyed great equestrian success having steadily climbed the ranks with her beloved horse, Pete. Juggling the demands of school work and representing Rendcomb’s Equestrian Club, she recently sat her history GCSE exam in the morning, before dashing to Badminton to compete in the BE100 class at the Mitsubishi Motors Cup competition later that morning.

Out of the 91 entrants, Jessica placed an impressive fourth. She has also had the privilege of representing the South Wales and Central U18 British Eventing Team at the four-day championships at Frickley Park in South Yorkshire.

Mrs Karen Coups, leader of Rendcomb’s Equestrian Club said: “Jessica regularly represents the Rendcomb at NSEA Events and is an inspiration to all of our riders.

She started riding at age four and she is an excellent ambassador for the school. Her fantastic progress shows her athletic ability and determination to succeed. We look forward to following and supporting her in her future endeavours.”

2 Eva Gray 17

Cricketer Kingston Grammar School, London Batter Eva Gray is delighted to have been called up to join the Surrey Stars in the Kia Super League. She won her place on the 15-strong squad after impressing selectors during her time in the Women’s Surrey County Cricket Club, as well as the England Academy programme.

Kingston Grammar School’s Head of Cricket, Dominic Reed, said: “Not only is Eva forging her own fantastic pathway in professional sport, she is forming a legacy at the school for girls in cricket. Her dedication to the sport, we hope, will reap huge rewards for her and I personally look forward to see her sporting prowess develop in the coming years.”

Eva, who started playing cricket from age 11, says: “I’m thrilled to be selected. It’s been an ambition of mine to represent my county and I’m looking forward to training with the other girls in the squad.”

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1 ONES TO

WATCH

We catch up with the stars of the independent school sector

2

STAR PUPILS

3 Annabelle Simmonds, 17

Launched her own STEM event Sydenham High School, London Annabelle’s love for science, technology and maths inspired her to organise a national STEM competition. Entrants were asked to write a 700-word article about anything related to the topic of STEM, and Annabelle also secured some prestigious figures as judges, including a Chief Pilot from British Airways.

Annabelle said, “When the competition ended, I could see that my aim of encouraging people to engage in the STEM world had been achieved. I had turned my dream into a reality.” She is now hoping to read maths at Cambridge later next year.

3

4 Freddie Wiltshire, 17

Degree apprentice with Rolls Royce Brighton College, East Sussex

5

4

Sixth Former Freddie has been offered the chance to study a degree apprenticeship with Rolls Royce once he has completed his A-Levels this summer. His degree apprenticeship in project management means he will be working for the worldfamous company while earning a degree and emerging debt-free, with a virtual guarantee of a role once he has graduated.

He says,“I feel I’m going to get the best of both worlds and I’m really delighted that I’ll be based in Bristol.”

5 Zachary Clow, 18 Rugby player St John’s College, Southsea

Zachary has recently been selected for the England Counties U18 Rugby Squad, after successfully completing trials through the London and South East U18 team.

His love for rugby started in Year Seven, and he has since played for all the teams at St John’s College, from the Under 12s to 1st XI, resulting in him being awarded captain earlier this year. Zachary has applied to study sports and health science at Cardiff Metropolitan University in September, where he hopes to pursue a career as a professional rugby player.

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

57

ADVERTORIAL

SCHOOL’S OUT With the holidays just around the corner, Tim Wilbur shares a few ideas on how your teens can spend their time

H

ow are you going to entertain the youngsters for the summer holidays? This is a question that will cross a lot of parents’ minds when the glossy holiday course brochures arrive.

The summer holidays span an awkward length of time, and while some parents will be happy to allow their offspring to relax, others will be keen to fill every inch of time with worthwhile pursuits. A good number will be also intent on disconnecting their children from the digital world, at least while the weather is reasonable.

A wealth of opportunity

An adolescent’s mind, however, is much less easy to read, and they will have hopes and fears of their own. These will vary from wanting to be left alone to do as they please, all the way through to a desperate desire for adventure and opportunity to try something new and exciting.

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Above, will your children be relaxing over the summer, or continuing their studies?

A youngster coming towards the end of the schooling process may instead be looking forward to the next stage of their life. Overseas travel is another option, where they can learn language in situ.

Time well spent

Potentially the most difficult age to satisfy is the early to mid-teen year groups. They are often at their most obstreperous, and often even the most promising suggestion meets with a cool, hard stare.

The world of the “holiday” course exists to challenge these youngsters. The most well-established courses, whether academic, physical or cultural, offer the best opportunity and value for money.

Residential courses are also a good stepping stone. Not only do they offer teens the chance to be independent, there is also a good chance that absence, on both side, will make the heart grow fonder!

When considering how to use time wisely, some parents might prioritise what they want for their child, rather than what their child actually wants – but this may

not be the best way forward. Instead, it is often better if parents consider their child’s natural inclinations. For example, if your child needs stimulation, find them an activity that suits this. If your child is shy or an introvert, remember they are well-equipped to deal with the quiet places and don’t send them on noisy adventures.

In my many years as a Headteacher, the end of the summer term brought me the inevitable parental question: “…and just what should we encourage our child to do over the holidays?”. My most regular suggestion was that they should be allowed to “photosynthesise”. Yes, this is what plants do; but it always raised a smile and made the salient point that the summer holidays provide an opportunity to get some sun on their faces – because they’ve certainly earned it.

Find out more about Gabbitas Education’s Summer Holiday Courses at gabbitas.com

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Queen Anne’s School An independent boarding and day school for girls aged 11-18

The right choice for your daughter’s future Open Mornings Saturday 15 September Friday 16 November

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EXPERIENCE MORE 60

independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

ADVERTORIAL

Y

ou know that summer at Wells has truly arrived when the croquet pitch is laid out on Cedars Lawn, and Sixth Formers are queuing up for the croquet mallets, says Martin Ashton, Head of Boarding at Wells Cathedral School, who in addition to house and teaching duties, is also the master in charge of croquet at this idyllic Somerset day and boarding school.

The Wells croquet lawn, situated right in the heart of the school campus, and conveniently next to Martin’s own Cedars boarding house, proves a magnet year after year for students keen to unwind and enjoy some relaxation between exam revision and school work.

Lunch and break times over the summer term are notable for the mixed clusters of students dotted in groups around the borders of the lawn, enjoying time out from study in the sunshine and watching the matches in progress.

An antidote to stress

But croquet at Wells provides more than simply an easy antidote to exam stress. The school runs a popular croquet team for its older students, with after-school training sessions as well as local fixtures, of which the most competitively fought is the annual match against the team from the neighbouring Bishop’s Palace – just five minutes’ walk through the beautiful centre of one of the UK’s smallest cities.

Martin says, “At Wells, we follow the Association Croquet rules, with six hoops and four balls. Team members are competitive, but we still aim to embrace the more casual and social ethos traditionally enjoyed by domestic players of the game in their own gardens.”

In addition to croquet, Wells offers a host of other competitive sports for students, including numerous boys’ cricket teams, a girls’ cricket team, many girls’ and

SHOOTING HOOPS

Croquet holds a cherished place in the heart of many pupils at Wells Cathedral, writes Martin Ashton Above, pupils at Wells Cathedral School love playing croquet

boys’ tennis teams, rounders teams and athletics teams during the summer months. But croquet at Wells also clearly holds a cherished place in the heart of many students.

Fun in the sun

The croquet captain for 2018, Sam Bartram says, “For me, playing croquet on Cedars with team mates on summer evenings just sums up the fun of life at Wells.”

Martin adds, “Croquet is a great game and always throws up interest among students – particularly those who are competitive, but not committed to playing other more mainstream sports during the summer season. We have a strong team this year and are hoping for a successful season – wish us luck!”

To find out more about Wells Cathedral School, visit wells.cathedral.school

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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Across the diamond structure of the schools, the “Stamfordian spirit” is developed in all pupils, helping them to become happy, well-educated and grounded individuals.

Stamford High School and Stamford School students regularly come together to showcase their talents and take to the stage with impressive productions such as Hairspray and Les Misérables.

Cricket, together with ot approach to British her sports at Stamford, forms part of day and boarding ed a traditional yet mod ucation for both gir ern ls and boys.

A HISTORY OF STAMFORD ENDOWED SCHOOLS, LINCOLNSHIRE in10 pictures

A wealth of sporting opportunities for all exist at Stamford, from netball, hockey, swimming and tennis to shooting, fencing, badminton and squash, to name a few.

The Stamford Endowed Schools encourage personal challenges to help prepare students for life beyond the classroom.

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independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

Stamford School has a strong and impressive heritage in rugby, with a comprehensive list of fixtures and tours organised throughout the year. Many go on to play at club and national level.

The broad Sixth Form curriculum enables students to choose from 26 A-Levels and two BTECs.

Students embrace a diverse range of opportunities, such as performing with the Band of the Royal Marines in one of their concerts at the Stamford Corn Exchange.

Will Phelan, the Principal, believes it is vital to nurture independent minds ready to face the 21st-century boardroom, wherever and whatever that may be.

Formed in 1532, the schools are steeped in tradition and situated in an equally historic and beautiful town.

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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A taste of

ITALY

I

t’s not every day that you get to stay in a former medieval castle with 12th-century frescoes and vaulted ceilings, sweeping vistas of ancient vineyards and of olive groves stitched into the countryside. Situated in the heart of the Chianti region, the five-star, 50-room hotel, set within a 740-acre estate, is a perfect blend of contemporary elegance and historical charm.

The impressive cypress tree-lined drive heralds back to the days when the castle was home to a noble Florentine, Del Nero,

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A 12th-century castle lovingly restored into a family hotel captures the essence of the Tuscan experience, writes Claudia Dudman

and his family. Generously-sized suites tastefully decorated in complimentary tones with terracotta floors, also play host to kingsize four poster beds. The understated opulence continues in the bathrooms with unique features such as marble floors, mosaic walls and huge claw-footed baths.

A love letter from Tuscany

There is sometimes no better way to learn about a country’s history and its people

Take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool overlooking the castle’s olive groves

TRAVEL SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

Ttalian food lives up to its reputation in Tuscany

than through its food. Castello Del Nero’s aimiable executive chef, Giovanni Luca di Pirro, treated us to what can only be described as a culinary love letter to his native Tuscany. If you’re looking for traditional, lighter Italian cuisine, then head to the hotel’s other eaterie, La Taverna. But for fine dining, di Pirro’s Michelin star restaurant, La Torre, will blow you away.

Set in the castle’s former stables, in an elegant room with French windows that look on to the garden terrace, it was a

and black truffle, followed by spaghetti with smoked tuna fish and baby squid.

Our main course was a toasted fillet of turbot, exquisitely cooked with a pesto of fresh basil, stewed artichokes, potatoes and pine nuts. Dessert was a parfaitflavoured Moscadello of Montalcino and passion fruit marmalade. The freshly baked bread that was served deserves a mention of its own: specialities such as sorrel, olive and black squid ink were just a few that were displayed before us.

The hotel’s location, equidistant between Florence and Siena, means guests can take full advantage of all that Italy’s Renaissance has to offer.

Architecture and a myriad of art by Italian greats such as Leonardo, Michelangelo, Brunelleschi and Donatello are an unmissable experience.

Above, Castello Del Nero, left, the hotel pool, right, ice-cream flavours at Gelateria Dondoli

gastronomic dining experience, Tuscan-style, with produce that is homegrown thanks to the region’s excellent climate. We began with slow poached organic hen’s egg served with parmesan cheese mousse, herb sauce

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

Ballooning and horseriding are just two of the activities that families can enjoy on the estate of Castello Del Nero

With its 14 majestic towers, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of San Gimignano is a hilltop medieval town, which is a handy 20-minute drive from the hotel. As you explore the winding streets, your children will never forgive you if you don’t stop at Gelateria Dondoli, in Piazza della Cisterna, winner of the Best Ice Cream in the World Championship in 2006. We delved into flavours such as raspberry and rosemary, crèma di Santa Fina, (cream with saffron and pine nuts), blackberries and lavender; and banana and chocolate.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK, SHIUTTERSTOCK

Chianti, pasta and tiramisu

66

You can’t stay in the heart of Tuscany’s wine region without learning about some of its produce. The best way to do this is to attend one of the hotel’s informal yet informative wine-tastings.

Set down in the welcoming cool of the hotel’s cellars, sommelier, Mirò, took us on a veritable tour of the estate’s vineyards and the wines that it makes (albeit at a

independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

winery off-site). Ones that we sampled included: Brunello di Montalcino 2009, La Gerla; Tignanello 2011, Antinori; Chianti Classico Badia di Passignano 2009, Antinori; the latter bursting with the flavours of dark cherries, plums, flowers and cloves. It was a perfect introduction for a novice like me, but had enough to impress two die-hard wine buffs in our party.

I would put good money on the fact that your child eats more than their fair share of pasta. A diet staple among us Brits, the Italians, however, would never contemplate eating it as a main course, as we do. It’s only ever served as a primo, or first course, and I always feel that this makes it seem like an entirely different food altogether. I cannot recommend highly enough the cookery classes at the hotel. You and your child will be thrown into a masterclass on learning how to make authentic Italian pastas, such as tortellini with ricotta cheese, spaghetti and the delicious coffee dessert, tiramisu.

Florentine tradition and contemporary design are a continuous theme running throughout the castle and its grounds, and they merge seamlessly, too, at the hotel’s spa. You can refresh yourself in the outdoor vitality pool while gazing out over the views of the countryside. The treatments by ESPA are tailored towards your individual needs, and you can also enjoy the luxurious range of heat and cooling experiences that stimulate, relax and soothe aching muscles, preparing your senses for the experience to follow. It’s Tuscany’s first exclusive

destination spa and you’d be mad to miss it.

Plus, there are four hiking routes of varying ability and different lengths, the shortest at just under two kilometres with the longest being seven. They all take in the surrounding views as you trek through the lush vineyards and verdant olive groves. You might even spot pheasant, deer and wild boar as you walk your way through the grounds.

If hiking isn’t your thing and you simply feel like absorbing the scenery at a more refined pace, you can always take one of the hotel’s topolinos for a drive – keeping your experience quintessentially Italian, of course. ISP

Above, on the terrace where you can enjoy the view, below one of the hotel suites

Price per night for two adults BOOK sharing is from £415. Flights are IT to either Florence or Pisa and airport transfers can be arranged. Call +39 055 0864, email info@ castellodelnero.com and visit castellodelnero.com

SUMMER 2015 | independentschoolparent.com

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Enjoy Exploring

Together We create outstanding small-group family adventure and activity holidays worldwide Activities for the whole family Varied and exciting itineraries Family-friendly guides Specific teen-orientated itineraries NEW 2018 trips Request our brochure today

01962 302 062 familiesworldwide.co.uk

hello@familiesworldwide.co.uk

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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ADVERTORIAL

B

ased on the waterfront in Cowes, Isle of Wight, UKSA is a maritime training provider that offers a wealth of thrilling opportunities for young people. Our fantastic residential Superyacht Interior course will lead to an exciting career in luxury hospitality, often with time divided between glamorous locations in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. Aspiring stewards, stewardesses and chefs will also learn all the necessary skills to deliver service aboard luxury superyachts.

SAIL INTO THE BLUE

Far from “plain” sailing

Our three weeks of intensive training equips students with realistic careers guidance and personal mentoring, delivered by hospitality and maritime specialists. Our broad and comprehensive course syllabus covers everything from professional etiquette and protocol to health and safety onboard, event planning, bartending and cookery.

There are two options that can be bolted onto this course: a five-day Superyacht Cookery Foundation course, or a five-day RYA Competent Crew, during which students will cover approximately 100 miles and spend four hours on night watch.

UKSA gives students the skills they need – such as interior training and STCW Basic Safety – and they will also receive ongoing support once the course has finished. “All the students stay in contact with us and we mentor them through their career, not just when they are at UKSA,” says experienced instructor Vanessa Hodgson.

Up, up and away

We schedule our courses to fit in with the season, so your teen can fly out to the Mediterranean as soon as the course finishes. If they haven’t secured a placement, we advise them to head to Antibes or Palma, where the UKSA network is huge.

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Did you know that in just three weeks, UKSA can equip your 18-year old with the initial skills to work in hospitality onboard a superyacht?

Above, students find jobs within one to two months

Once here, they’re be put in touch with agents so they’ll be in a perfect position to find work. “The majority of our students find employment within one to two months, and then they’re off,” says Vanessa. UKSA’s placement service puts students in contact with leading employers, giving them an edge over others seeking work.

There is no prerequisite experience necessary to take this course – not everyone has sailed before and not all our students have backgrounds in hospitality.

Much of it comes down to personal presentation, high standards and confidence. One of our graduates,

Madeleine Thomason, is now sole stewardess on a 29m motor yacht. “Before coming to UKSA I had worked in bars and restaurants,” she says. “But here, I was able to learn a whole new range of skills every day, as each of the classes were different.

“Now I have qualifications and experiences that make a dramatic difference to my chances of getting a job in this super-competitive industry.”

UKSA is accredited by the Professional Yachting Association. To find out about the Superyacht Interior Foundation Course, visit uksa.org or email careers@uksa.org

FUN FAMILY HOLIDAYS SKIPPERED & CREWED CHARTER CHECK OUT OUR SPECIAL OFFERS

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WWW.SAILGRENADINES.COM | +44(0)800 321 3800 | WWW.SAILIONIAN.COM SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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E E N I INL L N NO E O E EFRE R F

DIRECT DIRECT RY RY

*ALL *ALLNEW* NEW* Independent Independent Schools Schools Directory Directory

www.independentschoolparent.com www.independentschoolparent.com

l Showcasing over 1,600 of the toptop l Showcasing over 1,600 of the independent schools. independent schools. l The essential online guide forfor l The essential online guide parents considering sending their parents considering sending their children to independent school. children to independent school. l Covering every stage of aofchild’s l Covering every stage a child’s educational journey: nursery, preeducational journey: nursery, preprep, prep, senior andand sixth form. prep, prep, senior sixth form. l Search by by age,age, location, boarding / / l Search location, boarding dayday / flexi, boys / girls / co-ed. / flexi, boys / girls / co-ed. l Interactive map giving directions l Interactive map giving directions to the school. to the school.

www.independentschoolparent.com/directory www.independentschoolparent.com/directory

Independent Day School for Girls 4-18 years

registrar@tormeadschool.org.uk www.tormeadschool.org.uk

“The quality of pupils’ achievements is excellent.”

ISI report 2017

@TormeadSchool

Tormead School, Cranley Road, Guildford, Surrey GU1 2JD Bursaries and Scholarships are available at 11+ and 16+ Registered Charity No: 312057

www.kgs.org.uk

# workwellandbehappy

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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Right, the landscapes across the Azores are truly breathtaking

WIN! + WIN A BREAK FAST SET-

WIN

£500 TOWARDS A FAMILY HOLIDAY TO THE AZORES, PORTUGAL

A

ctivities Abroad has been providing inspiring family adventure holidays for more than 15 years, offering a great range of multiactivity experiences all-year-round, in both the sun and the snow.

All of their fantastic adventures are specifically designed for active families, and range from multi-activity trips in Europe, long-haul adventures to South Africa and Borneo, to holidays in Lapland, including activities such as husky sledding and searching for the Northern Lights. On a holiday with Activities Abroad, you are guaranteed to

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independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

Left, the Ribeira dos Caldeirões National Park

share fantastic experiences and return home with a host of wonderful memories and photos, too!

A summer adventure

We are delighted to partner with Activities Abroad, to offer one lucky family the chance to win £500 towards an exciting summer holiday to the spectacular island of São Miguel in the Azores, Portugal.

This summer adventure combines the fascinating culture and history of this island with a wonderful range of family-friendly activities. Based in the city of Ponta Delgada, the lucky winners will enjoy a week-long stay in a four-star hotel near the city’s spectacular Botanical Gardens. With indoor and outdoor

COMPETITION

Above, experience swimming with dolphins during your trip

swimming pools, a fitness centre and a restaurant specialising in Azorean cuisine, the hotel is the perfect base for families to relax after an action-packed day of adventures.

The holiday of a lifetime

On your family holiday with Activities Abroad, you’ll have time to enjoy the Azorean countryside, mountain biking and kayaking around the famed Lagoa das Sete Cidades. Experience the very best of the island’s marine life as you go whale-watching in zodiac boats, before enjoying a real highlight of the holiday – snorkelling with dolphins in the wild, a bucket list experience that you and your family will never forget! There’s also the opportunity to sample tea from one of

Above, embark with your family on a thrilling actionpacked adventure

the oldest remaining tea plantations in Europe, as well as snorkelling in a crater lagoon in search of species such as guinea-fowl puffers and rainbow wrasses.

Sample “cozido”, a traditional Portuguese stew cooked using the steam from the geothermal earth, before discovering some of the many great natural wonders of the island, from black sand beaches to lava tunnels and thermal pools on a jeep tour of the island.

With your family, you will also explore the picturesque Nordeste part of the island, famed for its vibrant flowers before enjoying a session of canyoning in the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park on a family adventure to remember.

For more information about Activities Abroad, visit activitiesabroad.com

HOW TO ENTER For your chance to win £500 towards a fantastic family adventure holiday to the Azores with Activities Abroad, simply answer the question below and enter it on the link by midnight on Sunday 8th July 2018 at: independentschoolparent.com/win Q: Which Azorean island is Activities Abroad’s family trip based on?

A Pico Island B São Miguel Island C Faial Island T&Cs: Entry is only open to residents aged 18 and over in the UK. The prize must be booked within three months of winner notification and only in conjunction with Activities Abroad’s The Azores – Lava Lands And Swimming With Dolphins tour (brochure code: 4034). Read full T&Cs at independentschoolparent.com/win

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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CALENDAR

Our round-up of fun and inspiring things to try this summer

15 July

21-3 Jul-Sept

[London] Dive into the world of engineering as part of this six-week summer activity at London Transport Museum. Covering themes such as steam, electricity and design, activities include live demonstrations and interactive challenges. Visitors will also meet real-life engineers working today and collect rewards for each activity attended. Free to enter, ltmuseum.co.uk

Love Sundays?

[London]

Families won't be able to get enough of Citadel Festival, which is all about celebrating the most relaxing day of the week. Kicking off at Gunnersbury Park, this year’s programme features plenty of live music, a wealth of food and drinks stalls, a Kids’ Camp and a workouts and wellbeing area. Reggae aerobics, spandex ballet and a disco golf challenge are just some of the activities on offer! Child £10, adult £49.50. citadelfestival.com

21-2 Jul-Sept

OPENS 29 June

SUPER FOR SCHOOL TRIPS

3, 2, 1... BLAST OFF!

[London] The Horniman Museum’s world-class anthropology collection will launch this summer, displaying over 3,000 objects from different cultures, including an Ancient Egyptian sarcophagus and a Nigerian drum.

The museum will also be offering 12 new learning resources for visiting school groups, as well as topic-themed trails to try as pupils explore the gallery. horniman.ac.uk

[Cornwall] Ever wondered what it would be like to go on holiday to Space? The all-new Summer Space Spectacular at The Eden Project invites you to climb aboard and blast off for an intergalactic mission across our Solar System. Play mini golf on Mercury, make alien friends and uncover the secrets of extra-terrestrial travel. Child from £12.60, adult from £25. edenproject.com

TRANSPORT TRIVIA [East Grinstead, West Sussex] If turn-of-the-century transport is what captures your interest, take a ride along the Bluebell Railway, where you’ll see one of the UK’s finest collections of vintage steam locomotives. The 11-mile heritage line will also host a “Steam Through the Ages” event between 11th and 12th August, bringing different eras of history to life throughout your journey. Child from £11, adult from £22. bluebell-railway.com

11-12 Aug

PHOTOGRAPHY: MATTHEW COUSINS

THE GREAT SUMMER OF ENGINEERING

High Road, Woodford Green, Essex IG8 0RF Every child goes through school only once...

Registered in Scotland as a charity number SC008903

Bancroft’s School

Where encouragement leads to achievement

Welcome to our world At Strathallan, skills and talents are nurtured in a positive, supportive and inclusive environment.

100% of our pupils aged 15 and below represent the School in team sports.

We welcome boys and girls, boarding and day, aged 9 to 18 years.

www.strathallan.co.uk | 01738 815003 | admissions@ STRATHALLAN strathallan.co.uk

SCHOOL

Opportunities for all to excel

www.strathallan.co.uk | admissions@strathallan.co.uk | 01738 815003 Strathallan School, Forgandenny, Perth, Scotland, PH2 9EG

A LEVEL COURSES

...at Bancroft’s we believe in making that experience as good as it possibly can be.

SEPTEMBER

2018 ENTRY

SHAPE YOUR FUTURE

Generous Means Tested Awards, Academic and Music Scholarships available

A Level study in a unique learning environment designed to inspire both academic achievement and personal growth.

• Independent college in the heart of Cambridge • Intensive tuition in up to four subjects • Average class size six students • High success rate for top university applications

An independent HMC day school for children aged 7 to 18.

Tel: 020 8505 4821 www.bancrofts.org

ccss.co.uk Call 01223 663390 Email admissions@ccss.co.uk ccss.sixthform

ccsscambridge

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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s

Did you know?

Many nocturnal animals have special eye cells called rods, that enable them to capture the tiniest rays of light when it’s dark!

Al fresco entertainment

UNTIL 6 Oct

[Penzance, Cornwall] Described as Cornwall’s most famous open-air theatre, the Minack sits perched on a cliff edge overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. This summer, you can watch Denmark’s dark prince Hamlet, or opt for something lighter with The Pirates of Penzance. The Minack aims to bring the very best of professional and amateur theatre to the far west of Cornwall. Child £5, adult £10. minack.com

13-6 Jul-Jan

DID SOMEONE TURN THE LIGHTS OFF? [London] Life in the Dark invites you to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most extraordinary nocturnal animals, including snakes, fish, foxes and bats, who all thrive in the pitch-black thanks to their supersenses. Children go free, adults from £11.50. nhm.ac.uk

3

PHOTOGRAPHY: NICK WHITWORTH, GEM HALL, © TRUSTEES OF THE NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

Aug

UNTIL 30 Sept

SHAKESPEARE WITH A TWIST

BIG TOP ENTERTAINMENT

[Leyburn, North Yorkshire] Watch Three Inch Fools’ interpretation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Hamlet in the spectacularly beautiful gardens of Constable Burton Hall. This musical interpretation of the Bard’s work sees a five-strong troupe of actors play an assortment of instruments. Tickets £14. constableburton.com

[Nationwide] Venture inside the Big Top for the magical spectacle that is My Beautiful Circus this summer. The show, performed

by Giffords Circus, is packed with talented tap dancers, tight-rope walkers, trapeze artists, illusionists and stunt riders. All animals featured in the show are specially trained and well looked after.

Child from £10, adult from £15. giffordscircus.com

ESCAPE TO THE COUNTRY [Norfolk] Spanning over 9,000 acres, Holkham National Nature Reserve features rare habitats such as sand dunes, pine tree woodland and grazing marsh. Known for its glorious wildlife, birds and pink-footed geese can often be seen grazing amid the salt marshes. Child from £1.50, adult from £3. holkham.co.uk

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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Did you know?

Richmond Park spans 2,500 acres and is home to around 630 red and fallow deer

Festival season is here!

2-5 Aug

[Cornbury Park, Oxford]

Yoga, outdoor cinema screenings and live music are just some of the attractions you’ll find at Wilderness Festival. This year’s line-up includes Nile Rodgers and Chic, Groove Armada and Findlay, to name but a few. Wine tasting with Luca Dusi at Café Murano is also on offer, or why not watch Yotam Ottolenghi work his magic at a long-table banquet? Child from £6.25, adult £190.75. wildernessfestival.com A MIDSUMMER TREAT

UNTIL 1 Jul

[London] Sit back and soak up the stunning views as you cruise around Richmond Park on a horse-drawn carriage ride. The carriages, which can seat up to six people, are pulled along by magnificent shire horses as part of a 90-minute experience around the famous London park. You’ll also be served delightful summer refreshments and learn about the park’s fantastic conservation and community work. Suitable for children aged eight and over. £125 per pair, royalparks.org.uk

UNTIL UNTIL 28 Sept

21-22 July

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A FLORAL AFFAIR

GREAT FUN FOR FAMILIES

[Harrogate, North Yorkshire] If your green fingers are lacking a little lustre after the winter months, get gardening advice from the experts at the RHS Garden Harlow Carr. You can also wander down to the Streamside Garden, where you’ll find spectacular primulas and marigolds. Child £5.18, adult £10.35, rhs.org.uk

[London] The 44th Lambeth Country Show is back, bringing together vegetable competitions, craft and food stalls and animal displays, all set to a soundtrack of reggae, folk and soul music. The atmosphere at Lambeth Country Show is always a hit with families, and you’ll also find a funfair and tons of tasty food stands. Free to enter, lambethcountryshow.co.uk

independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

UNTIL SCOTTISH PRIDE

10 Nov

[Scotland] It’s that time of year again when the nation’s Scotsmen and women compete in their annual games, including tug o war, caber tos and track and field events. Held within the towns, villages and islands across and surrounding Scotland, these Games are the perfect combination of sport, fun and culture. shga.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: WILDERNESS, BILL ROBERTSON, SAUCHIE

1 Apr 2018

Inspiring intellectually brave, morally sound and confident young people Summer Open Evening Monday, 25 June 2018 4.30pm - 7.00pm

London’s only diamond structure school with single-sex teaching in a co-educational environment for girls and boys aged 4-18.

FOREST SCHOOL

London’s only diamond structure school with single-sex teaching in a co-educational environment and boys aged 4-18. We are a We are a city school with for 30girls acres of grounds city school with 30 acres of grounds, located next to Epping Forest. whereFind north east London meets Epping Forest. out more about entry into Year 7 at our 11+ Information Mornings on 7 October or 25 November at 9am.

www.forest.org.uk | admissions@forest.org.uk 020 8520 1744 | E17 3PY

Visit www.altonschool.co.uk to register

Open Day - Friday 12 October 9.30am - 12noon Co-educational Catholic school with Nursery, Prep, Senior and Sixth Form.

Alton School, Anstey Lane, Alton, Hants, GU34 2NG.

Tel. 01420 82070

I N D EPEN D EN T DAY S C H O O L FO R G I R L S AG ED 4 TO 1 8

FINE ART FOUNDATION We believe the basics of a contemporary art practice come from learning technical, analytical and creative skills from a diverse range of professional artists.

We offer students an unrivalled amount of teaching hours, providing them with essential skills and techniques to enable them to fulfil their potential and embark on a future in the creative industries.

Students make art in a dynamic and supportive environment and finish the year with a comprehensive portfolio, increasing their chances of securing a place at a sought after art school or university.

Get in touch to talk about applications and open day registration. academiccourses@artacademy.org.uk www.artacademy.org.uk 020 7407 6969

Queen’s Gate offers girls a warm, supportive environment where individuality is nurtured, academic standards are high and a broad-based curriculum ensures a well-rounded education.

Senior School Open Evenings Wednesday 19 September · Thursday 11 October Tuesday 6 November 2018 For a prospectus or to arrange a visit, please contact the Registrar, Miss Isabel Carey: registrar@queensgate.org.uk · 020 7594 4982 queensgate.org.uk/admissions Queen’s Gate School, 131–133 Queen’s Gate, London SW7 5LE

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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MY PERSONALIZED SOCKS NO MORE LABEL SEWING Day and s sport sock available

PERSONALIZED SCHOOL SOCKS Your child’s name & number woven in during making Comfortable to wear Easy to sort after washing Quick delivery Wide choice of colours & sizes

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Angels&Urchins 90x135mm Ad 2015.pdf

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07/09/2016

16:42

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E M A G R E S A L & L L A B PAINT C

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Volunteer Projects Abroad

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CM

Who are Projects Abroad?

We are a global volunteering organisation offering you the opportunity to enjoy adventurous foreign travel, do a worthwhile project and be involved in a unique cultural exchange. Established in 1992, we currently send 10,000 volunteers away each year, from the age of 16 upwards.

Why choose us?

Flexibility: choose your own

Support: Projects Abroad staff members in each destination Variety: range of placements

Our aim

To provide a volunteering experience that not only helps others but that broadens your horizons and extends your skills.

What projects can I do?

Archaeology, Business, Care, Community, Conservation & Environment, Journalism, Language Courses, Law & Human Rights, Medicine & Healthcare, Sports, Teaching, University Dissertations, Veterinary Medicine & Animal Care. Group Trips for schools/universities can also be arranged. Projects start from 2 weeks upwards.

Experience: we have over 20 years experience of working in developing countries Returned volunteers: speak to someone who has completed one of our projects

What is provided?

Volunteers receive accommodation, meals, medical & travel insurance, airport transfers and comprehensive in-country support.

What is the cost?

Projects range from £995 upwards.

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MY

start dates

www.projects-abroad.co.uk info@projects-abroad.co.uk Tel: 01903 708300

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dventure • 100 Acre Forest A Game Zones ng • Explore 12 Amazi Day Supervision ll • Expert Tuition & A • Ages from 6+

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Did you know?

It takes 18 months to plan each show, and 200 people to build and dismantle it!

3-8 July

14-15 Jul

THRILL RIDE BY THE SEASIDE

Horticultural haven

PHOTOGRAPHY: FRASER MARR, NATIONAL MEMORIAL ARBORETUM, GRAHAM HUNTLEY

[London] With fabulous florals, beautiful gardens and the chance to shop ‘til you drop, don’t miss the chance to see the stunning horticultural displays at the RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show. This year, a “river” of Verbena bonariensis is being cultivated especially for the event, creating incredible visuals and some spectacular photo opportunities. Get snapping! Tickets from £19.50. rhs.org.uk

21-31 PLANTS APLENTY

Jul-Aug

[Westonbirt, Gloucestershire] The National Memorial Arboretum is where you’ll discover 15,000 plant species, with the chance to learn all about different types of trees and shrubs. Kids go free from 21st July to 31st August, and there’s also a schedule packed full of activities for children during the holidays. Free to enter, £5 suggested donation. thenma.org.uk

[Eastbourne, West Sussex] Eastbourne’s Beachlife Festival is the fastest free sports festival around, and this year’s outdoor pursuits include bungee jumping, roller derby and more. If you’d prefer to leave the action to the experts, head to the promenade for the VW Bus Stop Tour, where you’ll find a huge display of colourful campervans. beachlifefestival.co.uk

12-19 DOWN TO A FINE ART

Jun-Aug

[London] Brilliant for budding Picassos, the Royal Academy’s annual Summer Exhibition is the perfect place to learn about abstract paintings and skilful sculptures by up-and-coming artists. With Grayson Perry as the head curator, this year’s event showcases paintings, photography, architecture and film. Children go free, adults £16. royalacademy.org.uk

WALK ON THE WILD SIDE [County Durham] Set high in the treetops of an ancient woodland, the High Ropes Course at Beamish Wild offers young adrenaline seekers two hours of fun physical challenges. The course features zipwires, rope bridges, swinging tyres and a thrilling freefall experience. Child £22, adult £27, beamishwild.co.uk

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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MEMORY LANE

SCH

MEMOOOL RIES

D

escribe

Would you rather have double

your school in

maths or an afternoon of art?

three words.

Fun, nurturing and inspiring.

Art, all the way. I think I’d rather double detention than double maths.

Did you ever customise

Were you an all-star sports

your uniform?

captain or an outside field

I wish I had done, but sadly there wasn’t an awful lot I could have done to improve a kilt! I was usually too busy trying to avoid a telling-off from teachers for having my skirt too short or for wearing too much jewellery.

lingerer?

Who was your best friend?

I am very lucky to have made the most amazing big group of life-long friends at school. We are all going away at the end of the summer – all 22 of us!

I dabbled in a bit of hockey, but mostly for the doughnuts at the match tea.

Homework: all done by Friday night or left until

CLAUDIA

What was lunchtime typically like?

Lunchtime was always quite an event at Wellington College, in terms of where you were going to sit or which boys you were going to try to catch the attention of!

LAMBETH

The founder of lingerie brand Luna Mae London forged the beginnings of her career as a pupil at Wellington College, Berkshire Let’s talk school food: only fit

Best prank?

for the slops pail or worthy of

We used to get breakfast delivered to our girls’ boarding house and once all the good pastries had gone, there used to be quite manky looking sausages left over. One of my friends was working above the common room and decided to throw a sausage over the balcony, which then landed at our housemistress’ feet. She marched up the stairs, manky sausage in hand, shouting “Who threw this sausage?!”

a Michelin star?

Which teacher stays with you to this day?

Chris Potter, who runs the alumni network at Wellington College. He was immensely helpful to me in my business journey. Shortly after starting Luna Mae London, I asked Chris if he could introduce me to someone who might be willing to offer some advice, and that person asked me to pitch to his group of angel investors, who all decided to back my business. Chris and I keep in touch and I will always be so grateful to him for the effort he has devoted to former students.

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Monday morning?

The school food was horrific! I think the only saving grace was being allowed to order a pizza after dinner back in your boarding house.

How would your teachers remember you?

I think they thought I was quite naughty, but I usually worked hard if it was a subject I liked. I remember having a battle with a maths teacher about why we needed to learn Pythagoras’ theorem, when I was sure I’d never need it in later life. Luckily she saw the funny side.

Share your school memories @ISParent

I was always more of a last-minute girl and I think the adrenaline of not knowing if I was going to make the deadline probably helped me to focus more.

What did you want to be when you were growing up?

I definitely had a fixation with fashion and had all the tear sheets from Vogue plastered to my bedroom walls. I’d never have imagined that I would be running my own business with a flagship store in Belgravia by the age of 27.

Finally, what piece of advice would you give to your schoolage self?

Work hard, play hard, and hold on to the great friends you make along the way.

Claudia won “Young Entrepreneur of the Year” at the Amazon Growing Business Awards in 2017.

“My teachers thought I was quite naughty, but I usually worked hard if it was a subject I liked.”

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