SCHOOLINDEPENDENTPARENT + FREE | PREP EDITION | SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com CELEBRATING THE VERY BEST IN EDUCATION NEDNEPEDNITEDUCATIONSPECIALISTS • MENTAL HEALTH Coping strategies for you and your child • LIFTING THE HUMAN SPIRIT Teaching music and sport remotely • TOP TIPS on home-schooling while working from home • A TASTE OF BOARDING LIFE Flexi, full and weekly – your options explained • CO-EDUCATION Looking beyond gender and the power of inclusivity Learning Curve A BETTER SCHOOL-LIFE BALANCE AND A RENEWED LOVE FOR THE GREAT OUTDOORS
“A secret jewel in Chelsea” TATLER SCHOOLS GUIDE 020 7352 www.redcliffeschool.comregistrar@redcliffeschool.com9247 CuriosityConfidence,InspiringandKindness Get in touch to nd out more: Redcliffe School 47 Redcliffe Gardens London SW10 9JH
39 Focusing our energies
Socially distanced dates for your diary School memories
7 In brief
Four prep boarding schools open their doors for an insight into pupil life
The importance of student wellbeing
Ballard School on looking beyond gender and the power of inclusivity
Independent school alumni tell their stories
INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT • PREP EDITION • SPRING 2021
16 Coping strategies
42 Weighing the costs
40 Lessons in communication
Pupils at St Catherine’slastBramleyterm
Norland nanny Alice Curry shares her top tips on juggling homeschooling and working from home, (page 34) and Dan Thornburn, headmaster of Edgeborough in Surrey, suggests some excellent mental health coping strategies for you and your child (page 16). Naomi Bartholomew, headmistress of St Catherine’s Bramley, writes on the positives that we can take from the pandemic, including a better school-life balance, for pupils and parents, and a renewed appreciation for the great outdoors (page 20).
24 All aboard
Headteacher of The Kingsley School on how students give back
Ancient teachings can help students to flourish, says headmaster Kris Spencer
50 A sense of community
W
62 School snapshot
74
19 Facing the challenges
Becoming themselves
64
14 Going the extra mile
3SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com INSIDE
Headmistress of St Catherine’s, Bramley looks at the positives of the pandemic
Finding creative ways to engage students in music and sports remotely
A round-up of the latest school news
WELCOME CLAUDIA DUDMAN, EDITOR Visit our schools directory where you can find details of hundreds of pre-prep, prep and senior schools from across the UK. INDEPENDENTSCHOOLPARENT.COM/DIRECTORY Like us on Facebook Tweet us @ISParent
The Head of Edgeborough School talks mental health and o ers three helpful tips
elcome to this spring term prep edition. Although the Government has announced that schools may return in early March, remote learning is the ongoing reality for most pupils for the next few weeks. I hope that with these pages the process is made just that little bit easier for you.
Independent school benefits versus the costs, plus case studies
Headmaster Alastair Morrison addresses the di culties of remote learning
All the facts and figures you need
Our Independent Schools of the Year 2021 Awards are back, and this time with a new category added to the canon. Schools have been outstanding in their response to the pandemic: in addition to delivering a full timetable through remote learning, they’ve made scrubs and PPE for the NHS; they’ve delivered food boxes to those in need, and have continued to think of ways to improve the lives of those less fortunate than themselves. The Special Award for an Outstanding Response to Covid-19 aims to recognise this. You can find out more on page 37 or on our website independentschoolparent.com. Nominations open on 18th March!
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12 School stats
Will Butler-Adams on Rugby
Headmistress of St Hilary’s Prep School commends the work of teachers
31 Outside the box
34 Handy hints
A Covid-safe stay in the capital
Tips for juggling home-schooling and work
60 Lessons from the East
King’s Ely Acremont in five photos
68 London mini-break
Our esteemed awards scheme is back
37 Success stories
Headmaster of Dean Close School discusses pastoral care for parents
New heights
20 Taking stock
70 Calendar
David Moncrieff, Chairman Colin Bell, COBIS Andrew Fleck, Sedbergh School, Cumbria Alison Fleming Newton Prep, Battersea Tory Gillingham AMCIS Aileen Kane, Boarding Schools’ Association Rachel Kerr, Girls’ Schools Association Ian Mason, Independent Schools Council Mark Stretton, HMC Helen Wright, Educational consultant Sir Anthony Seldon, Commentator and author Ben Vessey, Canford School, Dorset Sue Woodroofe, The Grammar School at Leeds Peter Young, Marketing/Brand Consultant SCHOOLINDEPENDENTPARENT THOMSONANDREAPHOTOGRAPHY:
schools in membership. She has more
5 WHO’S WHO SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com
ANDREW FLECK is principal of Sedbergh School, Cumbria, having been headmaster since 2002 he has relinquished this position to take up his new role which encompasses strategic oversight and operational direction.
PETER YOUNG is an independent school governor and chairman of the Business Marketing Awards.
EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
in
Meet the experts sharing their years of invaluable educational experience
AILEEN KANE is the Boarding Schools’ Association’s chief operating officer and oversees media, marketing, sponsorship, finance and HR facilities. Aileen is a member of BSA’s senior leadership team.
ALISON FLEMING has been headmistress at Newton Prep, Battersea since September 2013. Educated at grammar school, she began her teaching career learning her craft in state schools.
COLIN BELL is CEO of COBIS, which works with and supports students, teachers, leaders, support staff and governors from high quality British international schools in more than 80 countries across the world.
is a former president of GSA and vice-chair of ISC and since 2014, she has worked in international education, and advises, recruits and coaches leaders schools across the world. over 500 than 25 years’ to Independent Schools a directory of independent schools brought to you by the publishers of Independent School Parent, the magazine for parents of children in Prep and Senior independent schools. The Independent School Parent magazine in Prep and Senior issues is published termly. For website and subscriptions, please visit: independentschoolparent.com/register
DAVID MONCRIEFF a publisher specialising in education and heritage, he previously worked for more than 12 years as director of marketing services at the British Tourist Authority.
ADVISORYEDITORIALBOARD
©The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd 2021. All rights reserved. Text and pictures are copyright restricted and must not be reproduced without permission from the publisher. The information contained in The Guide to Independent Schools 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.
senior
experience of the independent schools sector. RACHEL KERR has worked with independent schools since 2000. She is currently communications manager at the Girls’ Schools Association.COVER: MORETON HALL SCHOOL, SHROPSHIRE EDITORIALNEDNEPEDNITEDUCATIONSPECIALISTS Editor Claudia Dudman Sub Editor Oonagh Turner DESIGN Creative Director Chloë Collyer ADVERTISING Group Account Director Catherine Chapman Advertisment Manager Harriet Cottrell Sales Executive Eleanor English, Danielle Thirsk, Harry Foden DIGITAL Digital Product Manager Ben Iskander PUBLISHING Executive Chairman Paul Dobson Chief Financial Officer Vicki Gavin Director of Media James Dobson Managing Director of Sales & Chelsea Create Steve Ross Publisher Caroline Scott Circulation Manager Daniel Webb Acting EA to Chairman Sophie Easton PUBLISHED BY The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd, Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Tel 020 7349 3700 Fax 020 7349 3701 Email editor@independentschoolparent.com THE GUIDE TO INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS ISSN Distributed2049-7024 by Seymour Distribution Ltd. 2 East Poultry Avenue, London, Ec1a 9Pt | Tel: 020 7429 4000 Fax: 020 7429 4001 | Production All Points Media. Printed in England by William Gibbons DISTRIBUTION The Guide
IAN MASON worked in local authority communications teams across London, before becoming the head of media and communications for the Independent Schools Council in 2017.
SIR ANTHONY SELDON is a contemporary historian and political author. He is former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Buckingham and was the 13th Master of Wellington College in Berkshire from 2006 to 2015.
MARK STRETTON joined HMC as communications manager in 2017, bringing with him more than 15 years’ experience and expertise in education sector communications.
BEN VESSEY joined Canford in 2013 as headmaster from Christ’s Hospital, where he was senior deputy head. He’s currently vice-chair of the HMC Professional Development sub-committee.
SUE WOODROOFE has been a headteacher for 12 years, at The British School of Brussels and now at The Grammar School at Leeds.
HELEN WRIGHT
TORY GILLINGHAM is the managing director for AMCIS, Admissions, Marketing and Communications in Independent Schools, which now has
is
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individual education Individual Sessions One-to-one lessons (in preparation for 7+, 8+ and 11+) incorporating NLP and HeartMath techniques which will ensure your child surpasses even what they thought they were capable of! Holiday Workshops Our fantastic workshops provide the ideal environment for children to push themselves beyond their ‘comfort zone’ and to gain greater con dence in themselves and their abilities. Programmes
We work with schools both in the UK and abroad to: a) help teachers become more aware of how their behaviour and language in uences learners and how to use this to bene t children; and b) to equip children with skills that will help them to succeed at whatever they focus their attention on. Get in enquiries@educationbeyond.co.uktouch07538179018www.educationbeyond.co.uk
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Millfield School, Somerset
The school has been selected as one of a small number across the UK to offer the new, and highly prestigious, Rambert Dance Grades. The grades are a new benchmark in contemporary dance education, and the new grading within the industry focuses on making dance that is awe-inspiring, adventurous, dynamic and relevant.
The Rambert Grades are a new benchmark in contemporary dance
IN BRIEF
7SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com SCHOOL NEWS ALEXANDERROSSPHOTOGRAPH:EASTON;HENRIETTAWORDS: STUDENT SUCCESSES • LANDMARK CELEBRATIONS • FUNDRAISING FEATS • NEW HEADTEACHERS
s
Sailing success
Beech House Infant School, Bolton School, Manchester Pupils and parents collected a huge amount of Christmas gift boxes for children aged four-11, which were distributed to families across the town. Organised by teacher Miss Niaz, she was inspired by Marcus Rashford’s recent campaign.
The school’s 2020 shoebox appeal for the Little Edi Foundation has surpassed the 2019 effort, with an amazing 431 shoeboxes! Pupils from all year groups took part in the appeal, filling boxes with a wide variety of gifts from shampoo to tennis balls, to be sent to some of the poorest children in Moldova.
Year four pupils took part in a new initiative, Pen Pals, writing to alumni and former teachers in a bid to build relations between members of the school community. Answers came from as far away as Australia and America, and pupils were carefully paired with alumni with similar interests.
Stowe, Swanbourne House, Winchester House School
• A great score
Dixie Grammar School, Leics
Salisbury Cathedral School, Wilts
A friend from afar
• Give a little love New Hall School, Essex
• A rising star
BEST OF THE REST
Jasper, the school’s resident dog, has been gifted his very own Burgess Hill uniform and sports kit, made by talented parent, Vanesa Cordell. During the pandemic, Jasper has become an even more important member of the school community, offering comfort to whomever needs it. Everyone was in agreement that it was high time he received his own uniform!
Puppy love
• Christmas cheer
Falcons School for Girls, London
Year eight pupil Amy Carter has been selected to join the Lancashire Junior Academy Centre for Hockey. Although training is paused for the moment, inter-county games are planned for spring. Well done Amy!
• A team effort
The three schools have announced the creation of the Stowe Group which will allow them to benefit from shared expertise and opportunities for sharing strategic leadership and professional development. For pupils it will offer shared facilities, opportunities for leadership and enhanced teaching and learning.
Bolton School Girls’ Division, Manchester
Burgess Hill School for Girls, West Sussex
8 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 SCHOOL NEWS
s
The boys’ and girls’ schools have announced a shared plan to provide singlesex education in a co-ed environment, with a 10-year ‘single campus’ masterplan. Equipping pupils with the skills to succeed in today’s workplace, there will be a rich co-curricular programme.
The Putney-based school has teamed up with Roehampton and Fulham Cricket Clubs to provide its pupils with first-class training from leaders in the sport. Years three to six participated in a series of training sessions, led by professional players from the two clubs.
Better Haberdashers’togetherSchools,Herts
Year eight pupil Imogen Green has been selected to join the Royal Yacht Association Midlands Regional Development Team, the first step along the RYA pathway and possibly the Olympics. Imogen started sailing in year five and is a member of the Draycote Water Sailing Club.
Help your child get into the right galorepark.co.uk/independentschoolparentmagazineschool11+ TESTSPRE- 13+ Exclusive distributors of ISEB exam papers Visit galorepark.co.uk/ISEB-past-papers
Jo Townsend is head of the Lower School at Broomwood Hall in south London from September.
Beech Hall School, Cheshire Junior and senior pupils took to the River Bollin for an inter-school Tough Mudder challenge. The competition gives the pupils the opportunity to practise determination, grit and resilience, as well as being lots of fun. One hundred pupils took part, climbing fences, crawling through mud and swimming through the river at the end.
Fun in the mud
Gareth Jones becomes head of BIlton Grange in Warwickshire in September.
Brentwood School, Essex
Furry friends
As part of the school’s wellbeing week, local Welsh business Alpaca My Boots visited year seven pupils with six friendly alpacas. Research shows that calm animals like alpacas are exceptional therapy animals, proven to help relieve stress. Pupils petted the alpacas and lead them around the school field, raising everyone’s spirits in the process!
Jeff Shipway is the new Head of SchoolOckbrook Derbyshire.in
11SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com SCHOOL NEWS
HEADS ON THE MOVE
Fiona Read is the new Head of pre-prepBedales’Dunannie, Hampshire.in
Last November’s Remembrance Day was a little different this time around, however, Brentwood School livestreamed its Service of Remembrance, using live video, multiple locations and audio streams, to ensure that all pupils, staff, parents, alumni and local residents could take part and listen to the service, despite the restrictions amid the national lockdown.
Christ College Brecon School, Wales
JANEVICTORIAPHOTOGRAPHY:
James Barker is the Headmasternew of Warwick School.
It’s all change for these schools
We will remember them
12 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 STATS EIGHTANDSEVENYEARSFOR£11,609OFFEEBOARDINGSENIORYEARSTWOPLUS£8,621ARETERMPERFEESBOARDINGJUNIORTERM.PER£4,604ARESCHOOLDAYJUNIORATTERMPERFEESSCHOOL*AVERAGEThe Independent Schools Council brings together seven member associations of independent schools, their heads and bursars. They represent 1,364 schools in the UK. Every April the ISC publishes a census: below are some of its findings THERE ARE A RECORD 537,315 PUPILS AT INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS 35% Ethnic diversity in ISC schools closely mirrors that of the general population with regional variation 1,169 SCHOOLS ARE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH STATE SCHOOLS 106,552 new pupils at ISC schools. Over a quarter of new pupils joined from the statefunded sector £442M PROVIDED IN MEANS-TESTED FEE ASSISTANCE FOR PUPILS AT ISC SCHOOLS. NEARLY HALF OF ALL PUPILS ON MEANS-TESTED BURSARIES HAVE MORE THAN HALF OF THEIR FEES REMITTED How much does it all cost? £96,684: Total junior school day fees from ages 4-11* £147,243: Total junior school boarding fees from ages 8-13* SCHOOL STATS All the facts and figures you need at your fingertips Students enjoy the sunshine outside Cottesmore School
“Exciting times lie ahead for the brilliant Wellington College”
— Tatler
Wellington College nurtures a unifying culture of ambition and aspiration; creating an atmosphere which encourages each pupil to believe that anything is possible Find out more wellingtoncollege.org.uk
Small class sizes enable the teachers to know the pupils really well, what makes them tick and realising when a little extra support and a kind word goes along way. This also extends to their families. We appreciate what parents are juggling – managing their own work commitments parallel to their children’s learning. Many of them face financial uncertainty and find themselves struggling with unprecedented levels of anxiety. As a family orientated school, we reach out to our families and extend our support wherever possible, whether that be electronically or on the phone. Top class pastoral care has never been so important. As the pressures have been mounting,
Jane Whittingham is Headmistress of St Hilary’s Prep School in Godalming, Surrey
It was quickly established in the first period of home learning that timetables need to be adjusted, to give families some breathing space as well as our teachers, many of whom are home-schooling their own children. It is sometimes difficult to remember that our pupils, even in their final year, are still only children, and parents have been reassured that their children do not need to be busy every minute of the day.
Of course, a lot of this could potentially be wiped away as the pupils face another period of remote learning. However, at St Hilary’s, our mantra of: ‘Good Better Best, Never Let It Rest, Until Our Good Gets Better and Our Better Gets Best’, has never been so clearly evident. The school set the bar high following the first lockdown in which more than 750 lessons were uploaded on
We know that learning at home cannot replicate the experience we give the children in school. However, it has given the pupils a little break from their busy, extracurricular schedules and parents have enjoyed not rushing round quite so much.
n some ways, Christmas and New Year was timely placed. Indeed, the restrictions imposed by the Government paradoxically presented us with a muchneeded opportunity, and while we missed precious time with family and friends, many of us were able to take time to draw breath, relax and reflect. As the end of the holiday approached, we instinctively realised that a further announcement was imminent from the Government, although most us did not realise that we would be plunged into remote teaching and learning yet again.
overriding feeling of ‘we’re all in this together,’ our resolution and determination in providing the very best education for our boys and girls, irrespective of the difficult circumstances, remains firmly intact.
YouTube, over 1,000 remote musical instrument lessons were delivered and more than 30 Zoom assemblies were undertaken. While it is widely acknowledged that it may not be easier second time round, teachers and teaching assistants constantly go the extra mile, showing creativity, ingenuity, flexibility and resilience, preparing a raft of fun and engaging learning activities.
WHILE IT IS WIDELY ACKNOWLEDGED THAT REMOTE LEARNING MAY NOT BE ANY EASIER SECOND TIME ROUND, TEACHERS AND teaching assistants constantly go the extra mile, SHOWING CREATIVITY, FLEXIBILITY AND RESILIENCE IN PREPARING A RAFT OF ENGAGING ACTIVITIES
LESSONS IN LOCKDOWN
14 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 COMMENT
School is a big part of a child’s life, where they develop life-long learning habits, acquire knowledge and establish skills which they will take with them to senior school and life beyond. School provides children with the structure and routine on which they thrive.
Staff instantly rallied, roles were unofficially allocated and in military style precision, the school dining room was set out for the preparation of work packs for pupils. By the end of the day, staff were out delivering these packs to every family, nursery and kindergarten staff were ready to welcome back their boys and girls as ‘normal’, and plans were finalised to welcome key workers and vulnerable children. A huge feat of organisation, with all hands on deck and the
It’s no mean feat delivering a full timetable remotely and teachers are going the extra mile to provide support to parents, writes JANE WHITTINGHAM
I
we have introduced Larry Lockdown, a teddy who has quickly become a favourite of the children. Larry helps the children to express their worries, or indeed if they feel ‘out of sorts’ to write a note or draw a picture for him.
THE SCHOOL FOSTERS THE GIFTS AND TALENTS OF EVERY INDIVIDUAL, preparing them to make a positive contribution to the school community AND WIDER GLOBAL SOCIETY
15SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com ADVERTORIAL
As a member of the International Schools Association, St John’s College is part of a global community, giving pupils the opportunity to learn from children around the world.
The quality of community spirit based on positive relationships between pupils and staff is something both current and past pupils feel.
The talents of pupils are celebrated through events, a broad curriculum, and the many
Not only do boarders enjoy the mix of studying, volunteering and activities on offer, they gain friends from different countries, giving them the opportunity to learn about different cultures. Joining the boarding
opportunities for co-curricular clubs and activities, helping to create confident young people, vital to the school’s success.
S
FOSTERING TALENT
Community spirit
community is like joining a wider family. For many pupils from a naval background, boarding at St John’s College gives them that stability and a place to settle.
Celebrating talents
Boarding
The school fosters and celebrates the gifts and talents of every individual, preparing them to make a positive contribution to the school community and wider global society. SJC prides itself on the academic success of each student and outstanding pastoral care.
t John’s College is a co-educational independent day and boarding school for children aged 4-18, located in Southsea, Hampshire. The school was founded in 1908 by a Lasallian community of Brothers and established according to the principles of John Baptist De La Salle, the patron saint of teachers. Although the college is no longer part of the De La Salle Trust, SJC remain true to Lasallian values, providing an education based on respect for all, quality relationships and an inclusive, collaborative community.
The new learning initiative is designed to bring out the very best in the young people at St John’s College, giving children the space to build their love and enthusiasm for learning, while developing independence in preparation for those important GCSE and A-level studies.
Children are nurtured from reception age, through to senior school and sixth form, where they become independent learners, helping pupils at different stages of their education to become the best they can be.
The school consists of a lower, middle, senior school and sixth form college, giving pupils the chance to experience diverse activities and build on the college and house spirit. The house system is central to the school, from the house tie pupils wear, down to the friendly rivalry at house events throughout the year.
At St John’s College, Southsea, education is based on the Lasallian values of respect for all, inclusivity, and community spirit
Based by the seaside, SJC offers a unique boarding experience, with a short journey to London airports for international students. As the only boarding school in Portsmouth, this is an international education experience from which all students, day and boarding, benefit.
When you join St John’s College, you become part of a family, and many past pupils return to talk to current pupils, work for the school or even just to visit their old campus.
If you haven’t heard of the ‘think, feel, do’ theory, look it up. Every parent focuses on building their children’s literal vocabulary but consider too a child’s ‘vocabulary of feelings’. Children all have feelings, but often they don’t know how to label them. So spend time getting them to think about something negative, and how it made them feel, and then what that feeling made them do. Now ask them to experiment by replacing any negative thoughts they had with positive ones – how does that change their likely feelings? Often, if we change what we think, we can alter the way we feel and then act. Try it yourself – it’s very effective! Finally, remember no matter what you see of the perfect lives on social media, we are all struggling at the moment – it is OK to not be OK!
read a wonderful post recently which said: “30 days hath September, April, June and November. All the rest have 31. Except for Lockdown/Home Learning/Dry January 2021 which has 16,849,218 days, easily!” It captured my rather downbeat mood perfectly and, with a chuckle, somehow my day seemed just a little bit brighter again.
I
WE KNOW THAT CHILDREN LOVE ROUTINE; WE LOVE IT TOO. IT HELPS US GAIN SOME CONTROL ON THE WORLD AROUND US. Work with your children to create a daily timetable and stick to it. ORDER CREATES PEACE IN THE MIND OF MOST CHILDREN
DAN THORNBURN suggests some mental health strategies to help you and your child cope with the pressures we are all under, including a gentle reminder that during this time, it’s OK to not be OK
PLAN OF ACTION
16 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 COMMENT
A young person’s head can be a confusing place at the best of times, so add a global pandemic to the mix and minor worries can turn into major mental health issues. So make time to talk to your children. Schedule it into every day. Make this a pleasure for them by having a hot chocolate or a piece of cake when you do. The key is to listen and then listen some more. We all have a tendency to want to fix things. But sometimes, in fact a lot of times, there’s not an easy fix. Instead, just listen while your child shares their concerns, however minor. Often, having aired and released them from their brain’s solitary confinement, the worries that earlier seemed huge, miraculously lose their power once out in the open.
Dan Thornburn is Headmaster of Edgeborough School in Farnham, Surrey
We know that children love routine; we love it too don’t we? It helps us gain some control on the world around us. So work with your children to create a daily timetable and then be sure to stick to it. Order creates peace in the mind of most children. I remember as a newly qualified teacher learning from a major study that most children preferred ‘strict’ teachers. Initially I didn’t believe it. But then I saw it with my own eyes. Children don’t need us to be scary, shouting monsters, but they do need to know where the boundaries are. Even better, they need to be involved in creating and signing up to those boundaries too. So get them to draw up ground rules about screen time, Roblox or HouseParty with you. They’re more likely to comply with the rules if they’ve helped create them.
Think, feel, do
Talk and then listen, and then listen some more
Now I’m not a psychologist. I am a husband, a father, a son, a brother, a friend, and, like everyone at the moment, I’m juggling all of those competing pressures with my job running Edgeborough, where I am ultimately responsible for the wellbeing of 350 pupils and 100 staff. So while I am not pretending to be an expert on children’s mental health, I do have some firsthand experience to call on. Here, then, are three strategies to help you and your children cope with the pressures we are all encountering.
Routines and rules – let your children create them both
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Alastair Morrison is Headmaster of Junior School, George Heriot’s, Edinburgh
• Children have grown to learn collaboratively and to remove them from that vibrant classroom and exhort them to learn through a screen is to remove the vast majority of their stimulus and their motivation.
• Every child is different. As I am sure in schools all over the UK, we at George Heriot’s have marvelled at the
independence, initiative, resilience and adaptability of the young people in our care.
of work that sits somewhere in the middle, reassure the children that their best effort will always be good enough and urge them to prioritise the literacy and numeracy activities. This, with suitably pitched extension activities for those who can gobble them up, gives us differentiation in the virtualAboveclassroom.all,thatwe all – pupils, parents and teachers – protect our mental wellbeing, is vital. Keeping ourselves going, at a time of such global challenge, and keeping ourselves healthy, is achievement in itself. The children’s learning will recover; most schools saw evidence of as much early in the autumn. Our unofficial motto at George Heriot’s is ‘Work Hard, Be Kind, Be Happy’. In encouraging the children to keep showing kindness to all around them, we are surely steering them towards a happy path through these dark times.
THAT WE ALL PROTECT OUR MENTAL WELLBEING IS VITAL. Keeping ourselves going, at a time of such global challenge, AND KEEPING OURSELVES HEALTHY, IS AN ACHIEVEMENT IN ITSELF. THE CHILDREN’S LEARNING WILL RECOVER
R
LEARNING CURVE
emote learning is a massively challenging process for everyone. There are many reasons for this, but my sense is that three central factors underline the difficulties being faced in most homes.
That third wonderful factor, is that every child is unique and thereby learns in a different way to all other children. Teachers have proven themselves to be miracle workers, but this is one that remains beyond them. One child, blessed with technology since before they could walk and surrounded by every device, relishes the virtual environment. Another child, through force of circumstance, economic or simply by choice, must share the family’s one computer, no printer, intermittent wi-fi, with their siblings – and their working parents, both fully working. The best we as teachers can do, I believe, is to set a programme
Last year’s lockdown was a tremendously steep learning curve for all and we entered this “Lockdown #2” all the wiser and better equipped. It can be tempting for parents to push for wall-to-wall screen time, but I would urge you to reflect on the effect this would have on the child.
The education system has rightly geared children to learning that is interactive and collaborative. The wonders of MS Teams, Zoom, Google Meet and their like are as yet unable to bring people together physically and so they remain an unfamiliar environment for a child in which to learn, adapt though they might. I strongly suggest to you that balanced shaping of the remote learning programme ensures that the screen time works in support of the children’s learning activities. Class teachers will know how that
ALASTAIR MORRISON identifies the underlining factors that make remote learning the challenge it is, and advises parents on how they can make the most of the circumstances
19SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com COMMENT
works best for their group, but we have sought a delicate blend of two or three screen sessions per day, alongside tasks set on our Virtual Learning Environment. Teachers will tend to use the class discussions on screen to introduce the learning activities, before letting the children try them independently, then submitting the work and report back. In this sense, the benefit is more of pastoral in nature than academic.
• Most parents are not teachers – or, to put it from the child’s perspective, children view their parents as parents, not teachers. As a parent of three daughters, I know how difficult this is. Our children regard us as caring figures and providers, making the process of engaging in their education at home all the more challenging, which links to the second factor.
20 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 PRE-PREP
Time at home has meant many have a renewed appreciation for the great outdoors
NAOMI BARTHOLOMEW, Headmistress of St Catherine's Prep School, Bramley, looks at the positives that have emerged during the pandemic, including a better school-life balance for pupils and parents, and a renewed love for the great outdoors.
I
Silver sLANE/ISTOCKJRYANPHOTOGRAPHS:
LININGS
Now feels like the right time to take stock and be proactive in terms of what we have learnt and to consider changes that may in fact have been beneficial and should remain in the aftermath of the pandemic. There have indeed been silver linings among the considerable challenges that we have all faced, and creative thinking has flourished in education.
Here at St Catherine’s, we have seen some of the benefits which I am sure are indicative of the situation in many schools and homes. Being in the great outdoors seems to have won hands down. Time outside for both children and parents whether that be on long walks, gardening, stargazing, or taking up a new pursuit such as kayaking, many of us have found a new level of appreciation for nature and the benefits that brings to our mental and physical health. In schools, this has also led to more outdoor learning which has many proven advantages, particularly for younger learners. Not surprising then that many families are looking to move out of cities to homes where they will have more room and ready access to outdoor space.
21SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com PRE-PREP
In school during the autumn term, the weekly schedule was less frenetic with fewer extracurricular activities both in and outside of school. We worked hard to ensure a balance remained,
Life has been slower and this has most definitely reaped rewards. A couple of the top favourite features of ‘life in lockdown’ quoted by children at school last term were ‘family mealtimes’ and ‘bedtime stories.’ These precious moments, that have been more possible with home working, have certainly been beneficial for children.
t’s almost a year since we first heard of Covid-19 and the global pandemic which has turned many lives upside down. Throughout, teachers and parents have had to adapt and react to the situation that they find themselves in whether that be in school or learning from home. It has been a period where service and sacrifice have gone hand in hand and everyone has had to let go of many of the normal features of their family life; communities have come together to support each other despite the necessary physical distance between them. Communication has remained essential to ensure that we all continue to feel connected and many have attempted new ways to keep in touch which they had not previously explored.
Small makingchildrenhugestrides. Discover the perfect balance of fun, kindness, learning and discovery. Blessed with exemplary facilities, beautiful grounds and wonderful teaching staff, Fairfield Prep is an educational haven – a warm and friendly community within which your young son or daughter can enjoy the thrill of exploration, discovery and early learning. LEARN MORE HERE: www.lsf.org/fairfield OR ARRANGE TO VISIT US SOON: 01509 283808 WELCOMING BOYS AND GIRLS AGED 3-11 YEARS THE LOUGHBOROUGH SCHOOLS FOUNDATION
As pupils returned to school last term, our teachers aimed to achieve the following for the children:
• Lower their anxiety about the current situation
23SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com PRE-PREP
• Make them laugh
Perhaps the most obvious silver lining is the revolution in communication through digital technology – parent/teacher meetings that are short, purposeful and much more private than those conducted in a noisy school hall or classroom and which don’t involve parents having to dash from the office in order to attend. The ability to connect the entire school for assembly via Zoom or to continue with your learning in innovative ways has been incredible. And more so than ever, children are confident and able to maintain contact with family and friends all over the world.
• Keep them safe
• Make them feel loved
One parent commented that she had read Wilding by Isabella Tree during lockdown and that she could see something potentially similar happening in our schools. I completely agree – as school leaders, we have been able among some of the daily firefighting of keeping everything safe for children and staff, to take a step back and reintroduce some back to basics approaches and considering what it is that really
CHECKLIST
excellent relationships between teachers and pupils, and given the children time to learn and explore with plenty of opportunities for independent learning. By doing so, we are building in their self-belief which is perhaps more important than ever before, as a fundamental goal in terms of preparing children in an uncertain world, ready to meet the challenges ahead and to support each other along the way as they do so.
but the reduction in options has seemed to be of benefit. School life was just a little less rushed. We observed reading progress at an accelerated rate as there is perhaps more time for it, and those who are learning an instrument have also flourished with a little more time for daily practice. Our chess club had record numbers attending both in person within their ‘bubble’ and online at our Zoom chess masterclass. Again, a sign that there is more time for some of the pursuits which may take a little more time.
NOW FEELS LIKE THE RIGHT TIME TO TAKE STOCK AND BE PROACTIVE IN TERMS OF WHAT WE HAVE LEARNT, and to consider changes that may in fact have been beneficial AND SHOULD REMAIN IN THE AFTERMATH
JACOBLUND/ISTOCKPHOTOGRAPHY:
Teachersmatters.have been very successful in achieving these goals both in school and while teaching remotely, and have worked tirelessly to ensure that we have provided meaningful and rich learning activities, maintained
• Teach them something new
Children at St Catherine’s have said family time is their favourite thing about lockdown life
Pastoral care forms a significant piece of the rich foundation that makes Cottesmore so special. The team are s
COTTESMORE , West Sussex
A
24 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 PREP BOARDING
We take a tour of four established prep boarding schools in the independent sector, finding out what sets them apart and what a boarding education has to offer
life, Cottesmore School is set in 1,000 acres of parkland, nestled on the Surrey/Sussex border. The rich assortment of vibrant and playful architectural forms provide the setting which stands proud on Buchan Hill. The house rings with echoes of children’s laughter, singing in corridors and above all, collective happiness.
Inside this prep school, established 126 years ago, 175 children live side by side and embrace the boarding life experience a school like Cottesmore has to offer. Proud of the full boarding provision, Cottesmore encompasses a traditional setting with a modern creative learning programme. The team at the school believe that Cottesmore offers something quite extraordinary to all those that walk through its doors. Energy fills each room of Buchan Hill, informed by history and tradition, yet dynamism and innovation provide the heartbeat of this school. Cottesmore leads with creativity – children are encouraged to partake in an array of extracurricular activities; Cottesmore’s Got Talent, poetry, mindfulness, canvas painting, and more.
Providing a genuine version of 21st century boarding school
A taste of
BOARDINGLIFE
t some prep or junior schools in the independent sector, pupils from the age of seven and upwards have the option to board. Different types of boarding range from flexi-boarding, where pupils stay overnight for a few days a week, to weekly boarding, where pupils live at school during the week returning home for the weekends. Some independent schools offer full boarding, where boys and girls are at school full time during the term except for exeats, when they head home for a long weekend to enjoy time with their families.
Deemed ‘traditional values’ by some, Cottesmore teaches all children to think of others, to be kind, courteous, to work hard and to have fun. Mobile phones are not seen at Cottesmore with the emphasis for children’s interaction being face-to-face. School councils give children the pedestal from which they can express themselves and be listened to; they have the daily opportunity to communicate concepts, to embrace self-initiated change, with a headmaster and team that support all forthcoming ideas.
Cottesmore School is set in 1,000 acres of parkland on the Surrey/Sussex border
Sunningdale is a leading prep school for boys aged between seven and 13
The boys have so much fun in their dorms, from playing games, cards or just reading a book with their teddy! Sunningdale is a predominantly full boarding school, and weekends give the boys a chance to relax and play with their friends, whether it be a giant game of ‘Convoys’ in the beautiful grounds, den building, climbing trees, feeding the
Sedbergh offers boarding for boys and girls
SUNNINGDALE , Berkshire
Children explore the school’s rolling gardens, grounds and sports fields. Lending itself beautifully to the plethora of sports played here, the recent introduction of Quidditch was welcomed by all. The school’s unofficial school motto ‘everyone has a talent’ is applied across all aspects of life and learning – inside and outside the classroom.
26 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 PREP BOARDING
responsive, caring and highly experienced. Each child is heard, encouraged to express themselves and supported on their educational journey. A genuine sense of community is prevalent here, with all of the adult team knowing each child individually. The school dines together, three times a day, with a variety of fresh homemade food available. Its food council represents the masses with menu additions and popular requests.
Sunningdale is a small country boarding prep school which offers an outstanding all-round education to 110 boys. Its small size means that they get to know the boys very well and are able to focus on each child picking up on worries and celebrating achievement very quickly. It is important to remember that their pupils are very young children and are in need of a huge amount of support along the way. Boarding is a huge part of Sunningdale life and it is a chance for the boys to learn to live together, to respect others’ points of view and develop those key life skills like tolerance, compassion, kindness, good manners, resilience and honesty which are so crucial. The six Sunningdale qualities are embedded in all areas of school life which ultimately lead to a richer education. There is one boarding house which is divided up into nine spacious and bright dorms. They are overseen by five wonderful matrons creating a home-from-home experience; looking after grazed knees, a missing button or just finding time to talk through a worry.
27SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com PREP BOARDING s
BOARDING IS A HUGE PART OF SUNNINGDALE LIFE and it is a chance for the boys to learn to live together, to respect others’points of view AND DEVELOP THOSE KEY LIFE SKILLS LIKE TOLERANCE AND COMPASSION
Alongside its fantastic tutor system, the school is also the first boarding school in the country to install a ‘Happy or Not’ machine which enables staff to track how the boys are feeling. This ensures that there is a robust system in place, to make sure every child is looked out for; from tutor, matron and teaching staff all the way up to the headmaster. In conclusion, boarding and the wellbeing of the boys is at the heart of everything at Sunningdale, and if the boys feel happy, safe and are fulfilled outside of the classroom then they will really flourish inside it and later on in life!
pigs, gardening, roasting marshmallows, fishing, mountain biking, paintballing or simply spending time bowling in the nets. The school strongly believes in the benefits of full boarding, however, they also understand the importance of being flexible. Boys may weekly board until year seven.
Boarding lies at the heart of Sedbergh Prep and is key to the school’s strong sense of community. The boarding houses, the dedicated boarding staff, and high percentage of children who take up a boarding option from age seven upwards, all play a pivotal role in developing the school’s strong sense of family values, encouraging children to harmoniously live and work together, build friendships and develop their independence.
The school wants all its children to be ambitious in the classroom, and also in the school’s co-curricular and extracurricular programmes; both of which are unrivalled in their depth and breadth. Boarding offers children the opportunity to take full advantage of the school’s extensive facilities and natural surroundings. Before school clubs offer boarders the opportunity to take part in additional sports and coaching clubs, such as in running, cricket and swimming, while evening activities range from target shooting and Tai Chi to cookery and climbing. A busy and fun-filled activity programme both in the week and at weekends gives boarders time to enjoy each other’s company and build relationships that will stand the test of time. Sedbergh Prep boarders can invest additional time in the pursuit of the arts, sport, outdoors, social and spiritual life of the Sedbergh’sschool.pastoral care and belief in timeless values creates an unrivalled provision for boarding. Secondary
At Sedbergh Prep School, the boys’ and girls’ boarding houses act as an extension of each child’s family, providing a warm and welcoming environment for boarders, be they staying at the school on a full, weekly, tri (which is boarding three nights a week) or flexi basis. The values of kindness, collaboration, respect and tolerance underpin everything the school does, in the knowledge that children who are happy and feel secure and valued will flourish and be successful across the many different facets of school life.
SEDBERGH PREP, Cumbria
After a family service supper, there is a wide range of boarders’ clubs to enjoy: torchlight games in the woods, kayaking on the lake, board games, table tennis, cricket nets, swimming, golf or mountain biking – all within the 150 acres of school grounds. This boarding community is
Boarding has evolved yet the skills and qualities boarding fosters remain as relevant as ever. Resilience, self-reliance and the ability to get on with others has never been more important and the children leave Elstree having developed a strong set of values, friendships and good manners which they not only take to their senior schools, but also into adult life and beyond.
28 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021
THE SENSE OF ‘COMMUNITY’ PULSES THROUGH EVERY FACET OF SCHOOL LIFE. Its flexible model enables children tolearn to live as part of a community AND TO BUILD UP THEIR SELF-CONFIDENCE AND ORGANISATIONAL SKILLS
enhanced by termly events for boarders and their families, such as their legendary Murder Mystery evening and family quiz. Big Weekends provide an opportunity for an entire year group to board for a weekend. A Saturday night event, such as a social with another school or bush craft, is followed by another activity on Sunday morning such as Laser Tag or Zorb football in the school grounds. These Big Weekends provide a great opportunity for a whole year group to socialise and for day boys to experience boarding.
Pre-prep pupils at Elstree
beinggardeningenjoyandoutdoors
The school’s flexible approach means that children can board anything from one to seven nights a week. The children have a lie-in on Sunday morning followed by a leisurely breakfast. The boarding staff may then take the children on a walk before everyone sits down together for a big roast lunch! The children always relish the opportunity to have some free time in the afternoon, whether it’s to call home, watch a film, kick a ball or play on the zip wire. After supper, the academic tutor will always run a session to catch up on homework and get organised for the week ahead.
to being a happy and secure home away from home, Sedbergh Prep’s boarding houses seek to offer its residents opportunities for their talents to be discovered, nurtured and ultimately realised. The school’s ethos of ‘give it a go and try your best’ helps to develop a level of resilience and determination, of pride in a challenge well met, that is truly the spirit of Sedbergh Prep School.
At Elstree, the sense of ‘family’ and ‘community’ pulses through every facet of school life, particularly in the boarding house. The school’s flexible boarding model enables children to learn to live as part of a community and to build up their self-confidence, independence and organisational skills. The house parents live in the heart of the house, supported by a strong team of housemasters/ mistresses, matrons and nurse; the school sees the children under its care as an extension of their own families. At least once a week, a dormitory is invited into the houseparent’s flat for a ‘Brew’ to share hot chocolate and homemade cakes in their cosy home-from-home atmosphere.
ELSTREE SCHOOL, Berkshire
Inspired by enthusiastic teaching, Amherst Prep School offers young children the perfect launch pad to early learning. Our small class sizes enable that learning to be personalised and tailored for each pupil, helping to boost your son’s or daughter’s self-confidence within a warm, supportive and kind School community. LEARN MORE HERE: www.lsf.org/amherst OR ARRANGE TO VISIT US SOON: 01509 638280 WELCOMING BOYS & GIRLS AGED 4-18 YEARS I Amherst “ You are always encouraged to do your best.” Pupil THE LOUGHBOROUGH SCHOOLS FOUNDATION
Risk assessments have been updated on a regular basis, one-way systems have been implemented, and timetables and extracurricular opportunities have centred around a new system of class and year group ‘bubbles’. Welcoming children back to school in September brought a sense of a return to ‘normality’, but with fewer opportunities to move around the school site and to work collaboratively. While these restrictions
Since March, children and staff at Sydenham High Prep School have become proficient in using technology to enhance teaching and learning, and through a range of new, online possibilities, children are now able to access opportunities to engage with the arts from theirEarlierclassrooms.thisterm, pupils in Years two and four greatly enjoyed online themed tours of the National Gallery. Year two were also treated to a unique online musical encounter offered to schools by the BBC called ‘Connecting the Dots’, in which they were able to meet a trumpeter of the BBC Concert Orchestra, hear him perform and ask him questions. Creativity flows through the school, whether it be in the form
ast year, school life changed dramatically as a result of the transition from school to homebased learning in March, and the subsequent return to schoolbased learning in September, where the focus has been very much on keeping everyone safe.
In light of the restrictions children have faced last year and this year, it has never been more important to offer children a wealth of opportunities for creativity and self-expression. Sydenham High School is part of the Girls’ Day School Trust, a family of 25 schools, helping to shape the future of girls’ education. sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net
30 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 ADVERTORIAL
Victoria Goodson, Head of Prep, Sydenham High School GDST, discusses the importance of creative outlets for children during the pandemic
At Sydenham High Prep School, we strongly believe in offering a rich curriculum that is broad and inspiring; a curriculum which encourages children to be creative and to be able to express themselves freely. Children receive specialist teaching in music, drama and art. Teachers are working hard to create opportunities for children to participate safely in orchestras, ensembles and choirs. Our annual Christingle service is always a highlight of the school year, and while last year the service took place in a different form, by being pre-recorded within a socially distanced
‘IN THE PROCESS OF MAKING SOMETHING – A DANCE, A FILM, A SONG, A TEXTILE DESIGN, WHATEVER – we change“stuff” in order to create something new. IN CHANGING STUFF, WE CHANGE OURSELVES,’ - MICHAEL ROSEN
Arts in schools
arrangement, pupils were still able to play music, to perform and to be creative.
of handmade poppies for Remembrance Day, pledges for the Wall of Kindness, dioramas and presentations for our recent Science project on oceans, or designing a leaf in the style of an artist for our annual Autumn Art Competition.
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have provided challenges, it is essential that opportunities for cultural enrichment, creativity and self-expression are firmly embedded within a balanced curriculum.
Lifting the human spirit
31SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com EXTRACURRICULAR
How do you teach music and sport remotely? Schools are ensuring that these crucial subjects, so important for pupil wellbeing, are delivered in an engaging and creative way, reports ELIZABETH IVENS
Pupil Daisy Kwong gets in some music practice at Sherborne Girls last term
Sport England reported in January that school closures had seen a further decline in young people’s activity levels. Meanwhile, the Incorporated Society of Musicians warned music education in schools was facing an “unprecedented crisis” as a result of the pandemic.
e challenge led to their trailblazing “GoOutdoors Challenge” where individual girls’ exercise was collated to cover a weekly distance such as a trip to Brighton Pier and, from there, a fortnight student-teacher charity challenge was launched to cover the distance from one end of the UK to the other.
At Notting Hill & Ealing High School GDST in London, Director of Sport Sophie Nicholas is passionate about encouraging students to exercise:
“Twitter was buzzing with girls holding headstands for record breaking lengths of time, loo roll kicky-uppies, Tik Tok challenges and ideas of their own such as a hockey ball ick game being devised in the garden.”
She implemented a daily sports initiative during the rst lockdown using social media, which captured the entire school’s imagination and led to further inspired challenges.
“Now, more than ever, engaging students in physical activity, no matter its shape or form, plays a crucial part in maintaining students mental and physical health.”
Mrs Dart said uptake of the school’s running club had also “hugely increased” with girls sharing their achievements on the Strava app, adding: “It has encouraged positive competition and new increasing participation from girls who previously weren’t runners!”
“Every single day teachers (o en beyond the sports team) demonstrated various sportsrelated challenges, videoing their e orts via Twitter and challenging the girls to beat them: challenges included juggling, holding planks,
at Sherborne Girls, Dorset in the autumn term
“What’s interesting about this initiative is that we were probably the rst school to have done this and we are now seeing other schools emulating this model,” Miss Nicholas said.
While their activity levels have dropped signi cantly in the last year, their access to a musical education has also su ered.
S
In the independent sector, schools have been determined to nd creative ways to engage students in both disciplines.
port and music more than anything else children and young people do at school, have long been recognised as vital to their physical and emotional wellbeing.
At Sherborne Girls in Dorset, the focus of the latest lockdown has switched to wellbeing, said Mrs Jayne Dart, Director of Sport, Adventure & Leadership. “We have focused more on an holistic o ering which ties in with
our drive for wellbeing – keeping the girls mentally and physically well,” she explained. “Our aim this term was to develop an o ering which kept the girls active, kept them engaged and was fun to participate in.”
To that end, the school has been livestreaming yoga, pilates and HiiT classes, and has encouraged “a small amount of exercise each day rather than long sessions”.
32 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 EXTRACURRICULAR
He said: “Music li s the human spirit, and we have all needed a little li ing these last 10 months.” And in line with this, one of the school’s rst lockdown music projects was a virtual rendition of Lean on Me by pupils to li
bouncing a ball while putting on a T-shirt to name just a tiny handful.”
At Blundell’s Prep School in Devon, Headmaster Andy Southgate said the school had been “determined” to make music a big part of their educational challenge when the rst lockdown began.
Sophie Nicholas delivering one of her daily sports
Miss Nicholas said girls started to challenge the teachers and each other, adding:
initiativesAHiiTlesson
“We have had to be creative and the learning curve for editing multiple performances has been a steep one, but it has meant that we have been able to keep music at the heart of our school community and that has certainly lifted our spirits and kept our families feeling connected to one another,” said Mr Southgate.
The school, like many others, has also continued one-to-one instrumental and vocal lessons via Microsoft Teams, with over 1,200 lessons delivered to students across the globe in the first lockdown alone.
33SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com EXTRACURRICULAR
Nevertheless, innovative ways of delivering interactive music lessons at Queen Ethelburga’s have included pulse and rhythm exercises “through the use of body percussion activities”.
At Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate in York, staff have used the growing range of online resources alongside teacher-led discussions to keep students “highly motivated and engaged” in musical activities, said Creative Arts Coordinator Matt Clayton.
The school also managed to continue its half termly teatime concerts and hold a virtual carol service for Christmas.
“We had some fabulous feedback on the calibre of our current cohort’s singing and musical skills,” he said.
The school has also created small ensemble performances “where individual parts have been recorded and mixed as if students were performing together,” Mr Clayton said.
This helped the school to deliver “its musical highlight of last term” – a virtual carol service which was “shared with a much wider audience than the parents who normally attend” when it was “shared around the world with alumnae”.
A music lesson at Blundell’s Prep in Devon in January
At Sherborne Girls in Dorset, concerts were adapted to year group performances to fit in
Dipping in and out of lockdown meant schools could bring together pupils for some vital face-to-face time.
spirts across the whole school. “As the weeks went by, we recorded small groups singing and through the wonders of technology, we learnt to master the delay across Teams (not ideal when singing together!) and created our virtual rendition,” he explained.
with year group bubbles and “bubble choirs” were able to practise confidently and safely in the school’s new concert hall, explained Mr Ian McClary, Deputy Head (Co-curricular andHePlanning).saidthehuge challenges faced by restrictions had also seen some positive benefits such as the development of enhanced skills and confidence using technology.
Mr Clayton said the “greatest challenge” to the remote teaching of music “centred around not having access to a wide range of physical instruments to play at home”.
Sophie Nicholas also recognised the challenges schools had faced had brought advantages: “The activity challenges, which we started in the first lockdown, have aided us in bringing the school community together, from teachers, to sixth form, all the way down to some of our primary school students,” she said.
MUSIC LIFTS THE HUMAN SPIRIT and we have all needed a little lifting these last 10 months. ONE OF THE SCHOOL’S PROJECTS WAS A RENDITION OF LEAN ON ME BY PUPILS
Timetable
Something I learnt from the last lockdown, is that children are constantly asking for snacks on tap, which I’m certain they wouldn’t be asking their teachers for! I set up a snack box at the beginning of each day with a few snack items in and some fresh fruit. At our allocated snack time, they were able to pick and choose whatever they fancied, but could also pace themselves for the day, giving them independence.
S
ince the announcement of lockdown and the start of homeschooling, my inbox has been flooded with messages from panicking parents about how to cope with the weeks ahead. Trying to juggle a job, while educating your child, is a challenge, and not one you’d ever expect to be embarking on once, let alone twice. Here are my ten top tips on how to help you and your child through the process.
Organisation is key
Start the day just as you would if the children were off to school. Wake them up at their usual time, prepare a brainfuelling breakfast, get dressed and ready for the day ahead. Some children find it easier to learn while wearing uniform; if your child is struggling, try this!
Print out their timetable so they can see what’s coming up next, meaning no surprises for anyone! Try and keep the structure of their day in line with their school timetable as much as you can. If you don’t stick to it minute for minute, do not worry. Teachers and schools understand that you’ll be juggling your usual working day, as well as helping to educate your child. Break their learning into small chunks and allow lots of breaks.
Snack boxes
34 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 ADVICE BLACKCAT/ISTOCKPHOTOGRAPHY:
Morning routine
Get active
Being sat at a table or a desk all day can be draining, so make sure you get up and
There’s nothing worse than a mad panic in the morning, let alone in front of 20 odd other children and their parents on Zoom! Work as a team with your child and make sure everything is prepped and printed, ready for the next school day.
SCHOOLINGHOME-
Schools are giving parents lots of flexibility in this whole process. If you don’t complete all the tasks for that day, don’t panic! Teachers will understand that in-between home-schooling, you may need to be working and have other children to help. If this is the case, try to prioritise the more important subjects. Aim to complete the core subjects such as phonics, maths and English.
tips
Norland nanny ALICE CURRY shares a few ways to make juggling working from home and home-schooling that little bit easier
For more tips on parenting, Alice’s Instragram account is at @nanny.inspiration.station
Priorities
about. As a family, you can go for a walk, run, scoot or cycle. If time or space is limited, PE with Joe Wicks is a great way to get the endorphins flowing.
Remember that when your child is at school, their teachers will be around to give them praise and encouragement. Stepping into these shoes and showing interest in their work and what they’ve been learning about will give them that extra spark to stay motivated.
As much as its going to be tempting to micro-manage your child, remember at school they are given a lot of independence. Let this happen in the home-school environment too! Mistakes happen, and your child can only learn from them.
My top ten
Motivation methods
Alice Curry’s
Realistic expectations
top tips include motivational treats and managing expectations
35SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com ADVICE
Be interested
Give them independence
Don’t be too hard on yourself, or your child. Remember, this is something we never thought we’d be doing. Everyone is in the same boat and it’ll take time to adjust. Be realistic with yourself too, and don’t compare yourself to others.
You may see that as you started week two or three, your child wasn’t feeling as motivated as you may have hoped. The initial excitement of not having to go to school every day has worn off and everything seems like an uphill battle. Set up a rewards system for some motivation, with a treat at the end of it. Whether that’s a movie afternoon with popcorn, or a new book. I suggest introducing a sticker chart, or even a marble jar to fill, which will be a great incentive to get work completed on time.
Physiotherapy. Straight up. Clinics across London Physio, massage, machine-based Pilates, plus a range of specialist services. sixphysio.com
WINNER
37SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com AWARDS
• The British International School of the Year
• Independent Pre-Prep School of the Year
• Small Independent School of the Year
• Independent Boys’ School of the Year
• Independent School of the Year for Community Outreach
• Independent School of the Year for Healthy Eating
• The Innovation Award for an Outstanding New Initiative
The 22 awards categories for this year’s campaign have been chosen to reflect the diversity of life in independent schools in the 21st century with three new ones added to the canon.
• Independent Girls’ School of the Year
• Independent School of the Year for International Student Experience
The awards are free to enter for all independent schools which are members of any association that’s a member of the Independent Schools Council. They will be judged by a distinguished group of educationalists. The judging panel will once again be chaired by Dr Helen Wright, international education advisor and past ViceChair of the ISC.
I
After the success of last year’s campaign our prestigious awards scheme is back. Read on to find out what you and your school can gain by entering Independent Schools of the Year 2021
• The Development Award for an Outstanding Fundraising Achievement
• The Marketing Award for Brand Communication
• Independent School of the Year for Student Careers
• Independent School of the Year for Performing Arts
• Independent Prep School of the Year
• Co-educational Independent School of the Year
• Independent School of the Year for Sporting Achievement
• Independent School of the Year for Student Wellbeing
• Independent School of the Year for Contribution to Social Mobility
ndependent Schools of the Year is an awards programme designed by Independent School Parent magazine to offer UK independent schools a platform that showcases their success stories and celebrates the student experiences they provide.
• Independent School of the Year for Environmental Achievement
• The Special Award for an Outstanding Response to Covid-19
• Independent Boarding School of the Year
To find out more about the awards and to download your entry form, log on at:
www.independentschoolsoftheyear.co.uk/aboutNOMINATIONSOPENONTHURSDAY18THMARCHANDCLOSEFRIDAY28THMAYTHISYEARTHECATEGORIESARE:
• Rising Star of the Year Award
38 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 JOIN OUR VIRTUAL LEARNING COMMUNITY IN 2021! The learning experience at InterHigh is like no other Our flexible and affordable primary, secondary and sixth form provision offers learners the opportunity to achieve their best results and stand out from the crowd. Accessible to any child, in any location, as long as they have a computer and internet connection. Fall in love with learning again with our virtual school and inspiring community. Visit interhigh.co.uk to start your journey. Harrison Year 9 InterHigh learner Why not try one of Half-TermRollingourContracts!
ANDREW JOHNSON, Headmaster of St Benedict’s School in Ealing, discusses how the school is managing pupil wellbeing during the pandemic
THERE ARE TWO KEY MESSAGES: FIRSTLY, IT HELPS TO focus our energies on those thingswe can control; SECONDLY, BY SUPPORTING EACH OTHER, WE WILL GET THROUGH THIS
a whole range of issues, and the tragic increase in family bereavements. At St Benedict’s, we have factored into the school week an extra form-time session for all year groups. This has proven invaluable, allowing students more time to talk through how they are doing, academically and socially. It has also had the added benefit of enabling our formtutors, Heads of Year, counsellors and PSHE coordinator to identify areas for particular concern, such as anxiety over shielding vulnerable family members at home.
ADAPTING TO CHANGE
responding sensitively, helping students to find ways of coping with whatever they may be going through at this point in their lives. To support this work, a number of Teacher Mentors have received extra training in mental health first-aid.
Another vital layer of support is provided by our counselling service, skilled in listening,
39SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com WELLBEING
If the nightmare of Covid-19 has a silver lining, it is possibly that it has magnified the importance of our mental wellbeing, underlined the need for resilience, and brought home to us our utter interdependence, encouraging everyone to show care and consideration for other people’s wellbeing as well as their own.
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Uncertainty is the enemy of wellbeing and the most valuable thing we can give to young people at this profoundly challenging time is a sense of calm and reassurance. In helping them to cope with uncertainty and to adapt to change, there are two key messages: firstly, it helps to focus our energies on those things we can control; secondly, by supporting each other, we will get through this.
Giving students clear advice on how to stay mentally and physically well is vital, encouraging them to establish healthy routines over lockdown, including regular exercise, sleep, mental stimulation and social connectedness. And while exams may be cancelled, cultivating a growth mindset will help them to stay motivated by looking towards their goals and striving to achieve them.
n the months since Covid-19 emerged as a global, life-changing force, schools have had to adapt rapidly to face the many challenges presented by the pandemic. Apart from ensuring that children’s education could continue remotely during lockdown, with the roll out of systems such as Microsoft Teams, schools have also had to find ways to support their pupils’ wellbeing.
Keeping things running as normally as possible, with weekly online assemblies, daily form time and a continuing co-curricular programme, has certainly helped everyone to stay positive and resilient. Music, drama, dance, sport, debates, house competitions and more, have enabled pupils to continue doing what they enjoy. Virtual concerts, plays and dance shows motivate pupils to attain their best performances; house matches kept team spirit alive in the autumn when fixtures against other schools weren’t possible; and fundraising activities turned our attention to those whose needs are much greater than our own.
Pastoral care has to be particularly responsive in the face of heightened anxiety, tensions and uncertainty at home arising from
PARENTS HAVE REALLY HAD TO TRUST US THIS YEAR. Many have sent their children across the world. IN ORDER TO REASSURE THEM, WE FOCUSED ON OUR COMMUNICATION
Bradley Salisbury is Headmaster of Dean Close GloucestershireSchool,
Early on in the term, we realised that we needed to give as much certainty as possible to our overseas parents and boarders. We committed to providing activities and accommodation for them over exeats, half-terms and the three-week Christmas break. An incredibly committed group of individuals gave their time to provide a superb
house that had stayed open throughout the first lockdown and created a community of staff and pupils to live and work together. The staff made sure that everyone was involved in all of the aspects of home life, that they made the most of their surroundings and invested in their relationships with one another. I suspect that neither the staff nor the pupils will ever forget it. I was struck by how much we can learn from other schools and voices and how important it is to understand the needs of the pupils, the staff and the parents. So when Dean Close reopened in September, I was determined that we should really think about what each of these groups needed and be prepared to respond to whatever was required.
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Parents have really had to trust us this year. Many have sent their children across the world to a place where the headlines have not been good. In order to reassure them, we focused on our communication. Using streaming kit to involve
owards the end of the musical Hamilton is a song entitled It’s Quiet Uptown. The song tells the story about how Alexander Hamilton copes with what is described as the unimaginable”.
In the middle of one of these crises, I came across an article about Ryde School on the Isle of Wight. The article told the story of the boarding
“If you see him in the street, walking by himself, talking to himself, have pity . . . He is working through the unimaginable.”
40 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 COMMENT LUDLOWMIKALPHOTOGRAPHY:
Through listening to the amazing work that schools in our sector are doing and investing in understanding the needs of our staff, pupils and parents, I believe that this time will be a major turning point in the pastoral care that our schools offer. It really is about putting individuals first.
BRADLEY SALISBURY reflects on how caring for his school’s overseas boarders during the Christmas holidays was a lesson in communication and understanding
PASTORAL CARE
At times this year, it has certainly felt like that for many senior leaders in schools as they have tried to find solutions to moving schools online, finding a way through public exam results and then reopening schools under very significant constraints. There is no doubt that it has been a particularly hard year.
them in as many live assemblies and events as possible, regular updates from the houses and I committed to writing a daily highlight which also included the latest Covid-19 stats. What started out as an act of duty, became a great way for me to finish each day. In her book, Wolfpack, the US World Cup winner Abby Wambach, reminds her readers that when she scored, she would always point at the person who helped create the goal. The daily email highlight to parents became an opportunity for me to point at a colleague or a pupil and be thankful for them.
holiday for 25 teenagers from across the world this Christmas. Deputy Head, Jacquie Davis, booked an incredible country house for the Christmas week complete with individual stockings and gifts for everyone. On this occasion, it was my family and I who elected to take on the arduous task of staying in the beautiful, luxurious surroundings of North Cadbury Court with 25 fantastic young people. In the second week, Jacquie and a small team were with the household based back at Dean Close with time for study and exercise along with a gala New Year’s Eve dinner and fireworks. The third week saw a number of colleagues offering academic clinics and a variety of activities.
41SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com Cranleigh Preparatory School, Horseshoe Lane, SurreyCranleigh,GU6 8QH www.cranprep.org VIRTUAL OPEN MORNING Saturday 27 February 2021 Please contact Catherine Staples, Head of Admissions, to book an individual appointment: 01483 542051 admissions@cranprep.org B2488 CranPrep 129x202mmL 3.indd 1 13/01/2021 14:04 For more information and to arrange a virtual tour of the nursery or the prep school, please contact 0207 348 1793 admissions@stjamesprep.org.uk CO-EDUCATIONAL PREPARATORY AND NURSERY SCHOOL FOR CHILDREN AGED 2-11 NurseryOurExcellent Forest School | Montessori Trained Teachers | Highly Creative
FEESNicholas
Winther, Finance Director of Rugby School, Warwickshire, explains the cost of an independent school education and the different options available to help lessen the financial burden
42 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 SCHOOL
A future investment
The added costs
The careful parent also needs to keep an eye open for another cost – the dreaded extras. School fees are usually quoted on a termly basis and typically cover the main educational (and boarding) provision, sports and activities. Some schools will also include meals in the main fees, for others this is an extra. Schools usually offer a variety of chargeable extras such as music, speech and drama lessons, English as a foreign language lessons, special educational
independent schools in the UK are charities or non-profit organisations, i.e. the gap represents a real difference in educational spend. Independent schools provide an ideal environment to bring out the best in the pupils. Their cost translates directly into a breadth and depth of education that’s sought by parents wanting the best for their children. That’s why so many independent school pupils go to the best universities, achieve success in the arts or perform so well in international sports.
There are differences in day-school fees depending on the location of the schools (those in or around London often being the most expensive) and whether the school also offers boarding. Schools offering both boarding and day places typically charge higher day fees than day-only schools; that’s because their school day is often longer than a day-only school’s, with a consequent increased commitment of time and resources in caring for and educating the pupils. The 2019 ISC Census noted that average day fees for boarding schools were approximately £19,000 per annum, versus £15,000 for day-only schools.
The traditional independent school model in the UK involves pupils boarding from the age of eight at preparatory (prep) schools
here are many words to describe an independent education, but invariably one of the most common is ‘expensive’. Parents and students love the small class sizes, well-resourced education, plethora of co-curricular opportunities, community spirit, impressive facilities and gorgeous grounds, but they do come with a hefty price tag.
SCHOOLS OFFERING BOTH BOARDING AND DAY PLACES TYPICALLY chargehigher day fees than day-only schools; THAT’S BECAUSE THEIR SCHOOL DAY IS OFTEN LONGER With options ranging from boarding to day-only, independent school fees vary widely across the UK s
According to the Independent Schools Council (ISC) Census, fees at independent day schools averaged just over £16,000 over the same period, with boarding fees averaging £34,500.
This variation between the two sectors seems extreme; even more so given that most
My previous job was bursar at Bilton Grange, a beautiful prep school in the Midlands. Many prep and pre-prep schools have now formed groups with senior schools, so that care and education are provided from six months all the way up to 18 years of age. It’s widely expected that such school groups will be a growing trend in the sector over the next few years. Generally, fees increase with the age of the pupils.
To board or not to board
before moving, at 11 or 13, to senior schools, such as Rugby. Nowadays, changes in parental attitudes and affordability have reduced boarding numbers. The ISC reports that approximately 13 per cent of its schools’ pupils are boarders. It’s now common for schools to offer a day-only option alongside boarding, and many prep schools now only offer day places. While the most prestigious of schools may still be majority, or exclusively boarding, this isn’t true for the bulk of the sector.
The Institute for Fiscal Studies’ 2019 report, Education Spending in England, reported that maintained schools cost the government, on average, £6,000 per student per annum.
43SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com SCHOOL FEES
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Above: Drama lessons are one of the extras that may be available at your child’s independent school
intrusive, but the intention is to guarantee that the need for fee support is genuine and that the money will be spent on talented children who will benefit from attending the school, and, in return, will benefit the school.
44 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021
This approach has becoeme especially prevalent as schools face the challenge of coronavirus. Most independent schools were quick to put in place an online learning programme and, in some cases, an active cocurricular offering. With pupils not physically attending school, fees were generally reduced although not by as much as most parents would have hoped! The impact of the lockdowns and the furlough scheme means many parents now find paying fees a struggle, or even impossible, and the hardship funds are proving invaluable. At Rugby, a surprising number of parents generously opted to forego the discount, asking that the money go into our hardship fund.
needs lessons, cultural trips, golf lessons, riding and, in some cases, the chance to keep your horse at school stables – the list is endless. I recommend budgeting up to £1,000 per term in boarders’ extras, or £500 for day pupils.
Every school I’ve worked at has been committed to supporting their pupils for the duration of their school stay. It’s common for schools to put in place hardship
Bursaries are a form of support offered to parents on a means-tested basis, i.e. after careful analysis of parents’ income, outgoings, assets and liabilities. This scrutiny can feel
support programmes for when parents face unemployment or a major change in circumstances. Schools try to deal with such events without forcing a student to leave. This support is typically offered on a means-tested basis, and can involve delaying the payment of fees or offering a discretionary reduction.
An independent-school education isn’t cheap. However, the benefits are evident. And there’s plenty of choice: schools that will suit different levels of affordability, personalities, needs and aspirations. The independent sector will offer your children the chance to grow into a wholeness that will prepare them well. And surely that’s the whole point?
Below: There are a plethora of sports your child can take part in
There are, however, some opportunities to reduce the cost of fees. Scholarships are awarded to students of unusual ability across a wide range of subjects, including sport and music. Twenty years ago, such awards often represented sizeable discounts. Today, most schools have reduced their value to between five per cent and 10 per cent off fees.
Part of my job at the three schools I’ve worked at has been to analyse parents’ bursary applications. Each school faced more demand for bursary support than there was capacity, but it remains a fulfilling aspect of my role to enable able children from modest or challenging backgrounds to receive an education at a school such as Rugby.
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46 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 JUNIOR SCHOOL Virtual Open Days 2021 4+ ENTRY Please register to visit us at www.channing.co.uk INDEPENDENT DAY SCHOOL FOR GIRLS AGED 4-18 Girls enjoying success! 1 Highgate High St, Highgate N6 5JR ISP JS Virtual Open Days Ad 2021.indd 10 22/01/2021 15:12 0207 435 office@lyndhursthouse.co.uk4936 24 Lyndhurst Gardens, Hampstead, London, NW3 5NW Register here: Qwww.lyndhursthouse.co.uk/tour &A THURSDAY 25TH FEBRUARY ATLIVE10.00AM Day and Boarding, 950 pupils aged 13-18 720 pupils aged 2 - 13 R E G I 01527 admissions@bromsgrove-school.co.uk579679bromsgrove-school.co.uk Flair discipline academic rigour Call our Admissions team to find out about joining Bromsgrove School Small classes and inspirational teaching Over 560 boarders from the age of 7 Exceptional results at A level, IB Diploma and GCSE A strong House and tutor system to look after your child’s pastoral and academic wellbeing An outstanding range of extra-curricularactivities
awarded an Equestrian Scholarship has made a huge difference to my riding and personal confidence. Although riding since I was four, it was only in 2018 that I started to think about the future. I had turned 12, becoming old enough to compete in affiliated British Eventing competitions. After my initial approach, Kilgraston encouraged me to apply and I really began to believe in myTheability.application process took a while but the school was very clear with direction. We had to complete a presentation, detailing my experience and achievements within the sport.
I have been fortunate to represent Kilgraston in dressage, show jumping and eventing teams. Riding is about your relationship with your horse, but there’s a real sense of belonging. I have benefitted hugely from regular teaching and input. Kilgraston has an on-site equestrian centre so riding is very popular with lots of pupils, many having their horses at livery within the school grounds.
As with many aspects of life, the pandemic has required a process rethink. Currently, visits to the school are regulated, so bringing prospective pupils into our ‘bubble’ has to be managed very carefully. This year, most assessments will be made online.
Being
Initially, the parent/guardian, pupil and myself have a relaxed Zoom call together. During the half hour or so, everyone gets a very good ‘feel’ for the situation and any questions –however trivial – can be answered in a full and friendly manner.
Music pieces will be set in advance, with our Director of Music performance-assessing online. Sport too will be slightly different, with candidates asked to produce a short video of their particular discipline. For academic scholarships this year, papers are either being despatched in sealed envelopes – with candidates asked to open them in front of a teacher from our school before sitting down to take the exam online.
Dorothy MacGinty, Head of Kilgraston, Perth
DOROTHY MACGINTY, Headmistress of Kilgraston in Perth explains how scholarship assessments are being conducted during the pandemic
Exam rethink
CHARLOTTE JEFFREY is in year 10 at Kilgraston School in Perthshire and explains how her equestrian scholarship has developed both her riding skills and understanding of the sport
While scholarships are honorary and carry a no fee discount – recipients do receive free lessons in their specialism and, of course, are given the prestige of being a scholarship pupil.
HOW I DID IT
Being awarded a scholarship is a big responsibility but it does make you hold your head high because someone else believes in your skill.
I am in the process of taking my Pony Club C+ Test and Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award. For both qualifications, I have had the opportunity to volunteer at the Equestrian Centre and benefit from expert knowledge and encouragement from the staff.
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Normally, candidates are invited to the school during February, but this year, other than equestrian scholarships which take place outside, assessments will be made virtually.
s
Scholarships are assessed in February but we start to receive written applications from several months beforehand, right up until the cut-off at the end of January.
Last summer saw me and my new horse Joey take part in my first BE90 event. The extra support has definitely given me the confidence to participate.
However, some traditions do remain the same. Successful applications have always received the good news via a personal call and that’s a habit that we will be guarding closely!
Several different types of scholarship are available – academic, excellence in art, music, sport, drama and all-rounders, for those who excel in a number of disciplines.
Kilgraston’s Equestrian Manager evaluates the applicant’s attitude and ambitions; competition is tough, girls must set an example through hard work and commitment.
47SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com CASE STUDY
he awarding of a scholarship at Kilgraston is designed to be a reflection of the principles on which our school operates throughout the academic year; namely the development of intellect and character.
As we are fortunate enough to have our own on-site riding centre, equestrian scholarships are also extremely popular, with many pupils bringing their own horse or pony to live just a few steps away while they progress through BHS exams and national-level competitions.
As with life for a pupil at the school, the scholarship application process is rigorous – designed to challenge each applicant, making them really think about the undertaking – but simultaneously engendering value and community.
What checks does the school make to ensure that you’re a worthy candidate?
S: It’s been life-changing for me. Without it, I wouldn’t be at Rugby. I’ve been given so many amazing opportunities and experiences that I’m so grateful for.
I: The process was really straightforward. We were given all the advice we needed from the admissions office beforehand.
Izabela: The process usually starts with an email from the bursar’s office requesting the necessary documents and financial statements, by the end of April. This is followed by a meeting with Bursary Administrations Limited, an independent company that helps the school analyse the bursary applications. It can then take up to a couple of months to get a letter with the school’s final decision.
Do you have bursary provision for the entirety of your school life?
S: We didn’t know a great deal, just the brief information we found on the school’s website. After the first open day, we got an information pack, then we had a meeting with the registrar and we received all the clear information we needed, and were encouraged to apply.
Can you give me a rough timeline of your bursary application process?
What impact has receiving a bursary had on your family?
A CHANCE TO THRIVE
I: I trusted that Skye’s strong academic curiosity and enthusiasm were both qualities that would help her secure the bursary and scholarship. A good work ethic and positive attitude to learning also made her a successful applicant.
really suited me and I thought it was somewhere I’d thrive academically.
SKYE, 15, is a day pupil in year 11 at Rugby. Here she and her mum, Izabela, explain their experience of the bursary process A GOOD WORK ETHIC AND positive mindset to learning ALSO MADE HER A SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT
48 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 BURSARIES
Did you apply elsewhere?
provided by me in the Confidential Statement of Financial Circumstances has to be supported by a lot of documents, which are checked by TheyAdministrationsBursaryLimited.thenfollowupwith a meeting in person on the school’s behalf.
fee reduction, so it’s not a big deal.
When did you apply for the Rugby bursary?
I: I don’t know, because we’ve never been asked directly, nor has it been an issue. Some of her teachers and peers know, but she’s always been an equal member of the school community. Rugby is well funded and 40 per cent of the pupils get some sort of
What qualities did you have to consider when applying?
Skye: We first applied for it five years ago, in January 2016. We got the letter to say I had been awarded the bursary in March. I joined Rugby that September.
I: As well as the checks that the candidate is sufficiently academic, sporting or musical, all of the information
How much did you know about bursaries?
S: I know that some people do apply to a number of schools but we only applied to Rugby because I knew, from the first open day, that it was the school I wanted to go to. The whole atmosphere
Which staff members know about Skye’s bursary?
I: I would never have been able to finance Skye’s place at Rugby without the bursary, so for her to be awarded it meant that she could get the best education possible, which is so important to me.
CASE STUDY
I: No, Skye is awarded the bursary annually, based on updated documents about my financial circumstances but if nothing has changed, the bursary stays the same.
How difficult was it to secure the bursary?
Please get in touch to discover more about joining the Churcher’s family.
From the magic of Nursery to discovery and adventure at our Junior School, life at Churcher’s is full of opportunity, learning and happiness.
Many pupils are active volunteers, allowing them to gain independence and self-confidence, which has a positive impact on their academic achievement and personal
Kingsley cares about the elderly community. Pupils visit local nursing homes to meet residents who have been invited into school to attend concerts and performances. The school set up an intergenerational partnership with a local home, based on the research and popularity of programmes in places such as Japan and Scandinavia. Prep school children
While the Kingsley community was unable to come together physically as a whole in the latter part of the 2019-20 academic year, its spirit was still well and truly alive. Among the many individual acts of kindness and charity by students and staff, the school donated large amounts of PPE to local NHS staff, and our Head of Design, Mrs Dempsey, led a small army of volunteers in creating scrubs to help local workers on the frontline.
Kingsley is proud of its heritage and standing in Leamington Spa, and aspires to long continue being a beacon of community spirit in the heart of this wonderful town.
Leamington Rotary Club for three years in the organisation and hosting of the club’s Community Spirit Awards. The event recognises the selfless service performed by members of the local community.
fulfilment. From sponsored runs, cake sales, foodbank donations and Christmas shoeboxes to creating performances, pieces of art and greetings cards, children are encouraged and supported to participate in charitable activity inside and outside of school.
and residents shared activities based around the RSPB ‘Birdwatch Weekend’, National Poetry Day and World Book Day; residents have joined for Forest School mornings and older pupils have shared in residents’ wartimeKingsley’sstories.facilities are always open to members of the public outside of school hours. The school sees its hall spaces become venues for shows, LAMDA classes, National Trust, yoga classes and pregnancy sessions, to name a few. The school’s extensive playing fields are used for a whole host of community sporting activities (also hosting a wedding in its time!) and during the summer holidays, the school is a venue for summer camps and workshops. Kingsley hosts its annual Infant Agility competition, arranged by sixth formers, to 500+ pupils from local primary schools.
A local nursing home resident and Kingsley pupil enjoy each other’s company
COMMUNITY SPIRIT
Christina McCullough, acting Headteacher of The Kingsley School, Warwickshire writes that the school is firmly embedded in community spirit and life
he Kingsley School has been an active member of the Leamington Spa community since its founding in 1884. As a registered charity, Kingsley understands its role as a community organisation, offering services and support.
KINGSLEY CARES ABOUT THE ELDERLY COMMUNITY. Pupils visit local nursing homesto meet residents WHO HAVE BEEN INVITED TO ATTEND CONCERTS AND PERFORMANCES
50 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 OUTREACH
Every year, Kingsley’s head girls decide on two charities to work with across the entire community, raising funds and awareness. This year, these charities are Springfield Mind and Molly Olly’s Wishes, two local organisations who do so much for so many in the community. Kingsley pupils have raised
funds and awareness for The Guide Dogs, another charity local to Leamington, for decades. Recently, a new Guide Dog puppy was named ‘Kingsley’ in honour of the school, and previous head girl Tanya Saunders was awarded ‘Best Young Helper’ in the charity’s Volunteer Awards. Current prep head girl, Amy Cornish, fosters Guide Dogs with her family – something she is very proud and passionateKingsleyabout.hasteamed up with the
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51SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com Co-EducationalAward-Winning,DaySchoolforages2-16,servingHampshire&Dorset “Quite simply a remarkable school”(Parent) 01425 ballardschool.co.uk626900 Fernhill Lane, New Milton BH25 5SU Ballard School Ltd exists for the education of children. Registered Charity No. 307328 • Fantastic academic results Register your interest for an available place by emailing admissions@oakfield.dulwich.sch.uk www.oakfield.dulwich.sch.uk 125-128 Thurlow Park Road, West Dulwich, SE21 8HP Oakfield Preparatory School A world of opportunity for boys and girls aged 2-11 Visit our website to see how we have adapted to remote learning Free headsetslaptops, and carry cases for all KS2 children and above • Personal development • Wraparound care
to achieve great things: sport for all, music for all, learning for all, ” says head girl, Amy.
52 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 CO-EDUCATION
Allowing pupils to problem-solve together; whether with maths’ problems and word games, making models and building towers, creating Lego cities and doctors’ surgeries, enhances this sense of collaboration for all. In Forest School, pupils have free choice, it’s never gender-based. We understand that all children are equally as likely to choose sawing and fire striking as they are to choose crafting and creating. Building dens, dams in the stream and bridges across the water, all underline the importance of teamwork. They share and take
“I love Ballard’s inclusivity; nobody is left out. You don’t have to be the best – if you have a passion or interest, you are welcome. Activities are not gender-oriented; so, at Ballard, girls can play rugby and boys can play netball freely. Our amazing productions are ‘West-End worthy’ because we all get involved; young and old, boys and girls; it takes all sorts
We are lucky to be able to spend quality time with our pupils, both academically and pastorally. We work together to engage their innate curiosity, explore with them, encourage them in their development, and help them to be the best that they can be.
This is especially true when year groups are kept small during early years’ learning; enabling staff to build the most incredible bonds with pupils and their families. Pre-prep children generally do not show any gender stereotype behaviour; friends are friends. It is fascinating to watch pupils collaborate at this age; they listen and negotiate with each other and accept new ways to approach each
t Ballard, we are proud of our inclusivity; we do not select pupils on gender or academic ability, but on character and their values; we look for a willingness to get involved and work within our community to the best of their ability. We recognise the individual, acknowledging that strength comes in many forms.
activity. Paired and group activities allow our pupils to experience and embrace the differences between pupils and their learning styles, strengths and challenges – all valuable experiences for building relationships.
ANDREW MCCLEAVE, Headmaster of Ballard School, Hampshire, on looking beyond gender, and the power of inclusivity
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Becomingthemselves
53SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com
not at Ballard. We have always had success at TeenTech events with mixed groups, so when Soroptimist International launched its STEM challenge for girls, we were delighted to win both regional competitions and are looking forward to the nationals.
Sport has historically been split by gender and although girls can play in boys’ teams, the same isn’t true yet for boys. At Ballard, we believe in sport for all as well as nurturing our elite athletes. All PE lessons are mixed-ability and mixed-gender groups until year nine; even then, we regularly see pupils choosing to play in mixed teams all the way to year 11; one boy has chosen netball as one of his GCSE PE disciplines. Our deputy head girl has represented the school in the 1st XI cricket team, despite being two years younger, and walked away with ‘Bowler of the Day’.
ONE BOY HAS CHOSEN NETBALL AS ONE OF HIS GCSE PE DISCIPLINES. Our deputy head girl has represented theschool in the 1st XI cricket team, DESPITE BEING TWO YEARS YOUNGER, AND WALKED AWAY WITH ‘BOWLER OF THE DAY’
our female crew won the UK STA ‘Small Ships Race’. We won a tag rugby festival, and our highest points-scorer was Louella! In cross-country, our fastest boy and girl are fiercely competitive with each other – driving themselves into the nationals. We also have a world-champion ‘Karate Kid’, who is a girl. Ballard has been recognised by the Football Association, becoming an FA Girls’ Football School Partner. This partnership has been developed by School Voluntary Community Officer, Megan Smith, who played for Chelsea FC Women and in the USA, and one of our PE teachers, Abbie Vernon. We have already had our first success, with two of our year six girls being selected for the UK Lions. STEM is a traditionally male-dominated area, but
We continue to have great success with our approach across many sports. Last year,
turns; tuning their communication skills and raising self-esteem and confidence.
In the performing arts we also look beyond gender; with girls recently taking the roles of Peter Pan, Cogsworth (Beauty & the Beast) and Willy Wonka. Our biennial dance shows are purely voluntary, with many boys participating including male GCSE dancers. Our deputy head boy’s proudest moment was performing his ballet piece: “It was nerve-wracking, but I knew I wouldn’t be judged and I wanted to show them what I could do.” He also plays 1st XV rugby and 1st XI football!
It is when I hear these stories that I feel proud to be an educator, and to lead a school which allows pupils to develop the confidence to be themselves, whoever they are.
Ballard pre-prep boys and girls gardening together
The Lycée Churchill aims to develop each child into a forward-thinking, principled, and joyful world citizen. The school is marked by diversity, with students from 45 countries and teachers and staff of 29 different nationalities with extensive international experience. It’s built on a modern educational ethos blending traditional disciplines with initiative, exploration, critical thinking, teamwork, and individual development. Rather than memorising facts, students learn to be curious and open, to ask deep questions, and to express their ideas with clarity and confidence.
Located on a leafy five-acre campus in north London and housed in a magnificent Art Deco building, the Lycée Churchill is a co-ed independent school offering a full FrenchEnglish bilingual program to 900 pupils aged 3 to 18. In Secondary school, families can choose either an English International track that leads to the highly regarded International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) or a French curriculum fully accredited by the Ministère de l’Education Nationale that leads to the Baccalauréat qualification.
The highly qualified faculty make enlightened use of technology tools that facilitate different styles of learning and enable both collaboration and self-guided study. Wisely deployed, technology encourages new, more interactive ways of learning. This proved particularly vital during the COVID-19 building closure, when students continued to learn and interact from home without disruption.Anactive parents’ association welcomes new families and knits the community together through regular convivial events. This shared vision and harmonious collaboration between the parents and the school plays a crucial role in fostering a caring, energetic, and global culture that promotes resilience, responsibility, empathy, and dialogue. At Lycée Churchill, success is defined one student at a time.
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t’s not just remarkable results that set this school apart, though the numbers are indeed impressive: 100% pass rates on tough French exams, 100% matriculation of graduates to competitive universities around the world, and an “Outstanding” Sixth Form rating from Ofsted. What’s really different about the bilingual Lycée International de Londres Winston Churchill stems from its unique blend of academic rigour and innovation, its focus on the needs of individual students, and its vibrant international culture and community.
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Meet the Class of 2035
Reception and Reception), classes are taught jointly by native speakers of French and English, both present at all times — like two parents in a multi-language household. This more natural and organic approach to bilingualism is carried out by highly trained early learning specialists in a nurturing and family-like environment. Their co-teaching and fresh techniques encourage children to learn in small groups through play, discovery, andStartingexperience.inYear 7, students and their families choose a path that leads either to the Baccalauréat or the IBDP. Either way, education remains bilingual until the age of 18, steeped in the caring atmosphere for which the Lycée Churchill is renowned. The proven yet pioneering teaching methods are tailored to develop well-rounded, open-minded, and culturally aware young adults ready to tackle the challenges of the 21st century.
Children starting school this year will enter the workforce in the late 2030s. London’s Lycée Churchill offers an education that gets them ready for the future
In the Early Years immersion programme, now available for 3- and 4-year-olds (pre-
Register for our next Open Day Saturday 30 January 2021 or book an online or in-person private visit www.lyceeinternational.londonVisitadmissions@lyceeinternational.londonatourwebsiteat
56 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 Preparatory School for girls aged four to eleven The Study is a leading prep school situated in the heart of Wimbledon Village. We identify and nurture each girl’s unique supportiveskillscreativeacademic,andsportinginacaringandcommunity. To book a Virtual Tour, visit the website www.thestudyprep.co.uk or call Katie Salt, Head of Admissions on 020 8947 6969 Registered Charity No. 271012 We welcome enquires about our scheme of assistance with fees for girls aged 7+ ‘High expectations of the pupils enable them to attain excellent standards.’ ‘Pupils show excellent selfconfidence and resilience.’ ISI Educational Quality Inspection Report LOCKERS PARK “Lockers Park prepares boys for success in the modern world.” Tatler Schools Guide VIRTUAL OPEN MORNING SATURDAY 13 MARCH Book your space at lockerspark.herts.sch.uk/openday Academic focus | Small class sizes | Free wraparound care Pre-Preparatory and Preparatory School for boys aged 4-13 years Hertfordshire 01442 251712 “There is nothing in a caterpillar that tells you it’s going to be a butterfly” (BUCKMINSTER FULLER) • Boys’ fortnightly boarding prep school • Excellent academic record • Bursaries available • State-of-the-art Science & Art Centre now open Ludgrove, Wokingham, Berkshire RG40 3AB · 0118 978 9881 registrar@ludgroveschool.co.uk · www.ludgrove.net Ludgrove ISP_Ludgrove_Butterfly_Ad_99x129_v2.indd 1 18/01/2021 13:47 Saturday 6th March from 10am Contact our Registrar to book a place 01635 253 172
An aerial view of Birchfield School, Wolverhampton
57SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com EXPERT ADVICE ASK THE EXPERTS Are you home-schoolingfindingastruggle,stressfulandchallenging?Fiveheadteachersgivetheiradvice…
58 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 Hawkesdown House School & The Walnut Tree Nursery For Boys & Girls aged 2 to 11 years 27 Edge Street, Kensington, London W8 7PN Telephone: 0207 727 9090 Email: www.hawkesdown.co.ukadmin@hawkesdown.co.uk An Independent Co-educational Boarding & Day School for pupils aged 9 months - 18 years LATEFREECAREUNTIL5.30PM EDUCATIONTHE GREATEST GIFT THE SOUTH WEST’S ONLY STEAM AND INNOVATION CENTRE Small class sizes, high staff pupil ratio - Specialist teaching Bright, spacious and bespoke classrooms A diverse range of co-curricular activities available Inspirational music, drama and creative arts Boarding from age 7 with a nurturing family atmosphere Offering ‘wrap around care’ and flexi boarding A magnificent 100-acre site, offering ample outdoor space T. 01225 734460 E. kps-admissions@kingswood.bath.sch.uk www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk
Don’t be afraid to make decisions that suit you and your children – create the timetable so it fits in with your lifestyle. Try to plan in lots of physical activity time, such as online exercise sessions, and it’s a good idea to have a family project on the go at the same time –some kind of enrichment activity like growing vegetables, or fundraising for charity.
I am a firm believer in plenty of breaks throughout the day so children can move around and switch off from screen time in order to help address brain fog. At Chatsworth
Getting outside is a must and try to punctuate the school day with ten-minute mindfulness exercises, simple ones like yoga, cloud watching and colouring. Keep to the usual term time timetable (including when to get up, dressed and go to bed) as much as you can for two reasons – children find comfort in routine and also it will help them adjust back to school life when they do return to the classroom.
Sarah Hobby, Crown House Prep School, High Wycombe, Bucks
OUR EXPERTS
Sarah Hobby, CROWN HOUSE PREP SCHOOL
59SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com EXPERT ADVICE
My number one piece of advice for parents is not to put themselves under too much pressure. I also think it is important to create a weekly timetable that factors in schooling and work commitments so there is awareness across the family of all scheduling for the week. In my experience, older children are often good at independently getting on with their work with minimal parental help, but for younger children this is harder. It can be helpful to have a basket of activities related to online learning so if they get stuck online they have other activities they can complete on their own.
Finally, help children stay in touch. Get them to email or write to family members, help them fix up virtual playdates and encourage them to socialise any way they can – that’s crucial for good mental health until things return to normal.
After almost a year of Covid-19, we are now well-practised in online teaching and blended learning. However, winter home schooling is very different from last summer’s experience, so it is important that schools look to adapt and refresh their programme to reflect theseThreedifferences. keytipsremain for parents. Firstly, make sure to maintain time in the day to talk to your child as a parent, not just as a home schoolteacher. Listen to how they are feeling, be prepared to adjust and respond. Secondly, recognise and reward your child’s learning in the broadest sense. The last lockdown taught us that children developed many new skills and character traits alongside their academic lessons. Thirdly, do not look too far ahead. It’s an uncertain time, so celebrate the successes along the way, take it day by day and trust in your teachers.
James Allen, Beech Hall School, Cheshire
Sarah Morris, Birchfield School, Albrighton, Wolverhampton
While our aim is to provide a full timetable of online live lessons, it is also important that children are allowed a chance to breathe, to get away from the screen, and to break up the day. In addition to their more academic lessons, our infants and juniors look forward to taking part in live food technology lessons. With recipes provided in advance, children will be able to follow as Mrs Partridge takes them through the process, step-by-step. Understanding that there is not always an adult on hand to support, the lessons are recorded so that families can return to them and follow the cooking instructions at their leisure. This facility to record lessons is available on most platforms, and many schools will be offering this as a way to manage the inevitable conflicts on both time and attention at home. Routine is essential. Children may not be here in the building, but they are at school, and that school routine is critical in supporting their learning – get up, shower, dress and be ready for that first lesson of the day.
Sarah Morris, BIRCHFIELD SCHOOL
Carrie Whyte. LEWES
One of the big concerns about so much remote learning is that children are catapulted back into enduring excessive screen time which is so frustrating after all the hard work parents have put in to limiting it. I would advise creating a healthy balance – so think board games, using construction toys and creating art projects (we love the Brushes app).
Nick Robinson, WEST BUCKLAND SCHOOL
Carrie Whyte, Lewes Old Grammar Junior School, Sussex
James Allen, BEECH HALL SCHOOL
West Buckland is a boarding and day school for children aged 3-18
Nick Robinson, West Buckland Prep School, Devon
Finally, remember that you are a specialist in your own profession and are not expected to necessarily know how to be a teacher too. Any guidance for your children works wonderfully well in this challenging time. Children are remarkably resilient and they will win through.
Schools (Crown House is part of Chatsworth) we also have Chatsworth Challenges, weekly offline activities that bring our school community together and help remind children that learning is and should be fun.
OLD GRAMMAR SCHOOL
The first thing I would say to parents is be kind to yourselves – take the pressure off and set goals that are both achievable and realistic. Plan a timetable for each day with a blend of the academic subjects and enrichment, crucially with breaks and some fun activities added into the mix.
60 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 LANGUAGE
SANSKRIT CARRIES A WARMTH OF CONTENT AND AN academic rigourin its form and precision, BUT, ALSO A SPIRITUALITY, BEYOND RELIGION
PROMISE
By year three, our pupils are able to recite this prayer in Sanskrit and English. Studying Sanskrit from an early age broadens the mind; heightening the children’s awareness of a culture that is very often very far from their own. Sanskrit is one of their fondest memories of St James Prep and they take its rigour and discipline to senior school, and beyond. The knowledge that they have a deep understanding and experience of something beautiful and important, of which most adults know very little, is for them a source of deep confidence and pride.
61SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com LANGUAGE
Cultural awareness
KRIS SPENCER, Headmaster of St James Prep in London, embraces the teaching of an ancient language as a way of giving pupils the tools to flourishNEastern
amaste’, a socially distanced greeting which many schools have used in place of the usual handshake for pupils at the school gate. It is good to know that Covid restrictions can bring to schools the opportunity to try new and good things. Namaste is a Sanskrit phrase usually translated as, “A bow to you.” It is accompanied by the gesture of joining two palms together, placing them at the heart level and bowing one’s head. It is a beautiful greeting to receive and perform. You will know some Sanskrit words – avatar, bandana, guru, karma, mantra, nirvana, pundit – and other words derived from Sanskrit – candy, cashmere, cheetah, crimson, ginger, jungle, lilac, sugar, zen – and, my favourite, juggernaut.
“May all be happy, May all be without disease, May all creatures have wellbeing, And none be in misery of any sort, May peace and peace and peace be everywhere.”
have musicality and richness of tone which make it a performance language. One has to say the words to embrace their beauty. Some say the very act of speaking Sanskrit is soothing and enriching. And, in articulating it, pupils have to find ways of mastering sounds and breathing which are outside our western tongue. Like singing, it trains the voice and gives a sense of release and joy. Pupils have to concentrate and be in the moment to truly embrace the language – things that we know support wellbeing.
At St James Prep, The Pause is practised at the beginning and end of every lesson. The pupils are asked to sit relaxed and balanced, keeping still. The mind is brought into the present by connecting with the senses allowing what has gone before to pass. After a minute or so of returning to the present moment, the teacher sounds a traditional dedication in Sanskrit. The words are ‘Om Paramaatmane Namah’, meaning ‘to the Universal Self a bow’. This is followed by the Sanskrit word ‘Atha’ at the start, and ‘Iti’ at the end of theThelesson.dedication reminds both pupils and teachers to be their best self; and, that we are teaching and learning not just for ourselves but for the greater good. The Pause is about getting ready for the next thing in the school day. To start a lesson, prepare for an exam or interview, or before a sports fixture – it works to support calm and focus. And, to find the energy needed to embrace the next challenge, whatever it might be.
Sanskrit carries a warmth of content and an academic rigour in its form and precision, but also a spirituality, beyond religion. Take a look at the lyrical beauty of this Sanskrit prayer, and the importance of the words:
The sounds of Sanskrit words and sentences
‘
THE PAUSE
An academic edge
At St James Prep, we study Sanskrit from an early age. Much beloved by our pupils and parents – especially those who practise yoga (a Sanskrit word) – it takes time and application to learn. It is not easy, and it is very different. But our pupils master Sanskrit and love it, because it repays their enthusiasm and effort with an understanding of a language which flirts with perfection. It gives them a similar academic edge and advantage as studying Latin and Greek; but it is ours as a school – we are almost alone in teaching it – and that is a source of pride and excitement.
Beauty and wellbeing
In 5 pictures…
Shortlisted in the Independent Schools of the Year 2020 Awards, King’s Ely Acremont is a leading pre-prep located in the quintessential city of Ely in Cambridgeshire. The school is set in a stunning Georgian-style building and is led by Faye Fenton-Stone and her team of passionate, specialist staff.
KING’S ACREMONTELY
The nursery and pre-prep takes full advantage of its Cambridgeshire location
62 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 PRE-PREP
King’s Ely Acremont is set in two acres of beautiful gardens, which boast plenty of fun play equipment, areas of trees and shrubs to explore and even a vegetable patch and wildlife area to tend to. The children love nothing more than putting on their wellie boots and exploring the outdoor space.
The school’s enrichment and extension programme promotes early identification of each individual child’s strengths, allowing them to be stimulated. Feeling motivated and challenged enables each child to grow in confidence and fulfil their potential. Pupils take great pride in their achievements whether in work, play or behaviour.
Our small class sizes ensure that each child receives the personal care and attention they deserve. We strive to make every day an adventure and adventurous learning is inspired by a creative curriculum. Creativity is often primarily associated with the arts, however, at King’s Ely Acremont, creativity is equally fundamental to advances in science, mathematics, technology and all aspects of everyday life.
DID YOU KNOW?
King’s Ely Acremont has its own wildlife and conservation area, complete with nature trail! The facilities were lovingly created by the school’s grounds team in 2019.
King’s Ely was first established to educate the choristers of Ely Cathedral over 1,000 years ago, making it one of the oldest schools in the world. The cathedral which is located just a stone’s throw from school makes the perfect setting for concerts and performances, a daily extension to the school’s workspace, the school chapel, and a place of outstanding beauty and inspiration to all those who visit.
63SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com PRE-PREP
The school’s budding Bill Oddies and Michaela Strachans are in their element using the pond dipping platform to search for tadpoles (all supervised of course), and hunting among the log piles for minibeasts.
SCOTT PHILLIPS, 20
I also visited Italy on a choir tour with Ellesmere College. I saw the position for choir director advertised on Church Times, applied, had a phone interview in the March and then got offered the job and started in September.
ONES
SCOTT PHILLIPS
I really love it out here. My role as choir director will last a year after which I will return to the UK to study at the University of York.
I have always loved music especially dance music. At university I loved to attend events and festivals and began DJing as an artist. Last April, with the NHS under extreme pressure, and finding dance music so uplifting, I began to post my DJing from my kitchen in my hospital scrubs, on social media. It took off as it appealed to all sorts of people who love dance and who also wanted to connect with the NHS. #NHSessions now has a huge following. In November, I heard that I was the winner of an iGlobal Arts and Culture Award – an incredible achievement given the intense workload as a front-line doctor.
I was a chorister at St David’s Cathedral in Pembrokeshire (where I am from) for a number of years so the British choral tradition is in my blood.
Junior doctor and award-winning DJ Warwick School, Warwickshire
KISHAN BODALIA, 25
64 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 ALUMNI
Choir Director, St Mark’s “English” Church, Florence Ellesmere College, Shropshire
I graduated with a degree in medicine in July 2019, beginning my career as a doctor in A&E at New Cross Hospital, Wolverhampton followed by a rotation on the respiratory ward into the height of the pandemic. The dreadful impact of Covid-19 soon became apparent with a colleague of mine calling six families during one shift, to tell them their loved ones were reaching or had reached their end of life. I contracted Covid-19 in early May, with mild symptoms and was surprised when I tested positive. I work with a great team and value the responsibility of being a doctor during unprecedented times.
TO WATCH We find out how five independent school alumni have reached the heights of success, from a DJing junior doctor to a choir director based in Florence
KISHAN BODALIA
The church was closed for several months during the pandemic, which had such a devastating effect on Italy, and reopened for its first service in early September. The position at St Mark’s is the most important role I’ve had to date: I head up the department, have two organists and the choir. It’s a great deal of responsibility but I thoroughly enjoy it.
GRACIE
Monmouth School for Boys
GRACIE CATON, 20
I have written a number of scores for video games and short films for US-based companies. I was also recently signed by DNA Music Ltd, a prestigious music production company in London which specialises in TV and film scores. It is the first time that DNA has taken on a composer so young and at this stage of their career. But the company is giving me a fantastic opportunity to shadow and work with highly regarded professional composers and to experience the full process of scoring music productions, from dramas and documentaries to feature films.
SOPHIE LLOYD, 21 Musician and composer Bruton School for Girls, Somerset
65SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com ALUMNI
I am currently a second year student at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in Cardiff, studying for my BMus (Hons) Degree in Composition. Before I began my studies at the conservatoire, I did a two-year Diploma in Music Composition and also studied Composition and Flute at the Junior Department of the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London.
BELL-THOMAS
HARRI BELL-THOMAS, 23 Forward-Deployed Engineer
SOPHIE LLOYD
Music scholar, The Royal Northern College of Music Harrogate Ladies’ College, North Yorkshire
Being a pupil at Harrogate Ladies as a music scholar gave me incredible opportunities that I will always be grateful for. The support I received from my teachers helped me enormously on my journey to the Royal Northern College of Music where I am currently in my third year of studying vocal studies. I joined the school chapel choir at a young age and the head of music Mrs Morgan was very supportive. As a small school the teachers know the pupils incredibly well and encourage each girl to follow their own path.
I studied A-levels in computing, maths, further maths, Latin and Classical Greek achieving three A*s and two As. I found my time at the University of Cambridge very stimulating: the people I met were inspirational and driven to go as high and far as they could. I now work for Palantir, a company based in London and am currently working very long days at home just outside Monmouth on a project to help the NHS with its Covid-19 response.
CATONHARRI
I discovered my love for computing at school. I had a brilliant time at Monmouth – Mrs Lyndsay Hope (head of computing) was an excellent teacher and gave us a wonderful grounding. She encouraged us to explore all areas, which helped us find our passion.
As the human voice isn’t fully developed until 38 I didn’t expect to be accepted in to the Royal Northern College of Music at 18. I have always loved music and my ambition post-study is to continue to perform for others singing opera.
66 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 BOYS WILL BE...curious at Moulsford Prep day and boarding school of 360 boys aged 4 – 13 years To book a place, please email admissions@moulsford.com call 01491 651438 or visit our website WWW.MOULSFORD.COM Moulsford Prep School, Moulsford-on-Thames, Oxfordshire OX10 9HR VIRTUAL OPEN DAY SATURDAY 27 FEBRUARY 2021, 10 am TAKEWILLWHEREYOURSYOU? THE SCHOOL FOR MINDS To find out more about King Edward’s School, please visit our website: www.kesbath.com or contact our Admissions team on 01225 820 399, who will be happy to help. The adventure really does start here! For ages 3-18 JuniorAlleyn’sSchool -Welleyn'sV Alleyn’s Junior School offers co-educational excellence in a caring community for children aged 4-11. Townley020www.alleyns.org.uk85571519Road,DulwichSE22 8SU
67SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com TIME TOGETHER APART
Socially distanced dates for your diary and win a luxury tea for four
LIFE
After what feels like a long winter in lockdown, Mini Boden’s spring summer 2021 collection delivers happiness with its fun and uplifting colour and prints. Whether the upcoming months will include home-schooling in jungle print joggers, or being joyfully back out into the world in a hand-smocked dress the range will appeal to all. Plus, in keeping with Boden’s ethos, this collection is made with sustainability in mind, which will please the most
Shopconsciousenvironmentallyoflittleminds.thecollectioninfullatboden.co.uk
ENJOY THE SEASON
FAMILY
the change in rules and head into the city for a London staycation. While looking for a hotel which ticked all of our boxes we came across Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill, a five-star hotel in Marylebone which promised freshly refurbished interiors, extensive Covid protocols and a wonderful location
W
Hyatt Regency – The Churchill offers child-friendly amenities
68 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021
just around the corner from Hyde Park and Oxford Street. We stayed in one of the hotel’s newly renovated family rooms, offering two bedrooms and bathrooms, and views across Portman Square Gardens. The room provided plenty of space for all of the family and offered privacy for both the adults and children, with thoughtful touches throughout, including an adorable stuffed toy awaiting the children on arrival. The soft toy cat was a cuddly “Jock”, reminiscent of Winston Churchill’s own favourite marmalade cat, and soon became theirWithfavourite.muchexcitement upon arrival, the children were eager to get out and explore London as quickly as possible. Thankfully, the hotel’s very helpful concierge was on hand to guide us through all the local “must visits”, and we were soon on our way with a jam-packed list of things to do. Pit stops for the adults included a trip to Selfridges which is on the hotel’s doorstep, where the Christmas shop and toy floor kept the little ones entertained, followed by Liberty London, before the children took the reins and we headed to Madame Tussauds for some celebrity spotting.
If we had been staying for longer, we would have opted for one of the “book together” deals where visitors can purchase tickets for a range of attractions together, such as the London Eye, Sea Life Aquarium and the London Dungeon, and save on entry fees. With evening fast approaching, we headed back towards the hotel through a festive Marylebone Village, and then on to Hamleys, where it took the children a matter of minutes to pick out hundreds of toys they wished they’d added to their Christmas lists. We spent the walk back to the hotel choosing our favourite Christmas lights, as we wandered through Carnaby Street, along the magical streets around Bond Street and up to
MICHELLE GILMORE treated her family to a stay at Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill in early December. From visiting Hamleys to taking in the West End’s Christmas lights, there was plenty to do to ensure they had a fun-packed, Covid-safe stay in the capital
A city staycation
ith a brief loosening of tier and toDecember,restrictionslockdowninwedecidedtakeadvantageof
The family room offers two bedrooms and views over Portman Square
Families wanting to explore the capital together should check out Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill’s new Mini Marylebone Package, designed to offer a hasslefree stay with family bonding at its core. Stay in a newly designed two-bedroom garden view suite or family room garden view, complete with baby and child amenities, and enjoy a host of family activities, including a Mummy & Me cocktail & mocktail pairing menu, one complimentary babysitting session, access to the Churchill toybox, local family activities at the Wallace Collection and guidance on the best attractions in the area.
is a must. This buzzy bar has a fantastic atmosphere and is a popular hot spot: with showstopping cocktails, a heated outdoor terrace and plush interiors.
The Mini Marylebone package is priced at £550 in a family room or £800 in a two-bedroom garden view suite, based on one night accommodation.
The hotel is conveniently situated in the centre of London near Hyde Park and Oxford Street
Following a good night’s sleep (no doubt thanks to the 20,000 steps and decadent dinner the previous day), the family were raring to go for another full day of exploration. With the sun shining, we took advantage of the hotel’s proximity to some of London’s best green spaces and we wrapped up for a walk through Hyde Park and then down to Green Park, towards the River Thames. The route, mapped out by the hotel’s concierge, offered wonderful sightseeing and we loved walking along the Serpentine and Constitution Hill, past Buckingham Palace and down to Big Ben and the London Eye on the water. With children who normally need enticing into a walk, it was fantastic to see them soaking up all the sights and leading the way as we rambled through the city, really appreciating the change of scenery after a year of limited travel. The afternoon was spent ticking off more bucket list London sights, including Chinatown and Covent Garden.
STUDIOEPICOWEN;JOHNSIMONPICASA;PHOTOGRAPHY:
Nightly rates start from £218, room only. For reservations, email lonch-rfp@hyatt.com
IT WAS FANTASTIC TO SEE THE CHILDREN SOAKING UP THE SIGHTS and leading the way as we rambled through the city, REALLY APPRECIATING THE CHANGE OF SCENERY
69SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com HOLIDAYS
MINI MARYLEBONE
After what turned out to be a busy day enjoying the buzz of London in December, we decided to spend the evening at the hotel, opting for dinner at The Montagu Kitchen. With a relaxed atmosphere and an enticing menu full of British produce and delicious sounding dishes, this was definitely the right decision and the restaurant was a success with all the family. Dishes included golden beetroot tart and smoked salmon to start, followed by comforting risottos, pork belly and a charcoal grill, and topped off with a baked cheesecake and sticky date pudding. There were also kids’ menu options for the children. For those travelling without offspring, a drink at the hotel’s famous Churchill Bar & Terrace
The Lobby at Hyatt Regency London - The Churchill
Portman Square, where we were greeted by the hotel’s friendly staff.
Our short staycation highlighted just how much London has to offer and what we often take for granted as “locals”. Following such a successful trip, we are eager to make these weekend breaks with the family an annual tradition.
The hotel overlooks the tree-filled gardens of Portman Square
ONGOING
EASTONHENRIETTAWORDS:
The UK’s number one children’s theatre, Polka Theatre has created a digital resource, Polka Online, for families to inspire creativity at home during ongoing Covid-19 restrictions. Its special content explores some of the best-loved children’s books which have been adapted for the stage, and offers online story time, activities and acting and singing workshops for your little ones at home. polkaevent.com
Let’s get crafty
70 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 DIARY DATES
UNTIL 31ST MARCH
Just keep reading 4TH MARCH
Our roundup of fun things to do at home and outside during lockdown CALENDAR
At a time when imagination and fun are more important than ever, World Book Day is back for another year and encouraging children to develop a love of reading. Dress up as your favourite character and enjoy a brand new range of £1 books. Take part in the ‘stories to share’ campaign, featuring the nation’s top 100 ‘Stories to Share’ for all ages. worldbookday.com
At the theatre
In a special lockdown offer, the National Centre For Craft And Design is giving children aged seven+ the chance to complete its nationally recognised Explore Arts Award with a new online programme. Participants are required to complete 20 hours of NCCD online activity, plus 15 hours of independent study, and can take part in online craft or dance workshops, worksheet and support meetings. nccd.org.uk
A virtual visit
ONGOING
s
With its tranquil gardens and farm shop remaining open for local visitors during national lockdown restrictions, for exercise and essential shopping, The Newt in Somerset is the perfect weekend tonic for a walk with your household this spring. Simply purchase a Garden Membership online before your visit, and enjoy the perfectly manicured gardens, ancient woodland and a host of delicious local produce to take home. thenewtinsomerset.com
There’s plenty of fun for younger visitors to be had too with games and printable learning resources to look at! birminghammuseums.org.uk
If you’re lucky enough to live near one of these sites, despite restrictions, many National Trust parks, gardens, coasts and countryside sites remain open for you to enjoy safely with your household as part of your daily exercise. Check ahead to see which sites require a slot. nationaltrust.org.uk
Let there be light
Although we cannot currently visit in person, Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery has opened its doors virtually for visitors to explore its permanent collections and exhibitions online.
Fantasy football ONGOING
UNTIL 28TH FEBRUARY
Big cook, little cook
71SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com DIARY DATES
A pretty little wilderness
Pastures green ONGOING
ONGOING
The National Football Museum has an impressive range of sporting activities for you to get stuck into and perfect your football flare at home, from craft activities such as make your own football trophy, to step-by-step howto football technique videos, there are endless hours of entertainment available. nationalfootballmuseum.com
UNTIL 28TH MARCH
For local London residents, The Southbank Centre’s Winter Light exhibition is brightening up dark winter evenings, and is the perfect socially-distanced activity to do with your household. Stroll along the river and take in the beautiful collection of works exploring how light can transform physical spaces, in a time when we spend most of our days in front of digital screens. southbankcentre.co.uk
The team at the Jamie Oliver Cookery School have moved their culinary classes online so that little chefs can whip up amazing creations from the comfort of your own kitchen. The special parent and child classes run on Saturdays and Sundays and include a pasta masterclass and Mexican Street Food. Advanced booking required. jamieolivercookeryschool.com
Please answer the following question and enter at the website below: Which part of London is the Kensington Hotel located in?
72 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 COMPETITION
COMPETITION CLOSES: 28TH FEBRUARY independentschoolparent.com/win2021 HOW
elebrating the best of London, The Kensington will continue to offer its much-loved London Landmarks Afternoon Tea when it re-opens post lockdown, which takes inspiration from London’s most recognisable and historic landmarks. Guests are taken on a tasty foodie tour of some of the capital’s most famous architectural feats, from the opulent surroundings of the hotel’s Drawing Room, complete with open log fires and sumptuous seating. The Afternoon Tea is Instagram gold and is presented on a London Eye-inspired tea stand and served alongside a beautiful bespoke map of London illustrated by Eleni Sofroniou, highlighting the landmarks featured in the tea, which guests can take home with them. Starting with a skyline of scones and sandwiches, guests will also enjoy a selection of savoury treats including a cockney staple steak and London ale pie and a Colston Bassett stilton and broccoli quiche, alongside a bite-size crab cake with tartare sauce and caperberries. Those with a sweet tooth will delight in creations including ‘The Gherkin’, crafted from white chocolate with a dark chocolate ganache, ‘The Shard’ made of carrot cake and milk chocolate, an iconic ‘London Telephone Box’ imagined in rhubarb mousse, and a ‘Big Ben’ inspired lemon curd tart. Nestled in the heart of one of London’s most desirable neighbourhoods, The Kensington is complete with stylish décor, carefully curated furnishings and open fireplaces, and also offers intimate and private al fresco areas overlooking tree-lined avenues. The London Landmarks Afternoon Tea costs £42 per person or £54.50 with a glass of Perrier-Jouët, Grand Brut NV Champagne, all enjoyed with a selection of rare teas. Afternoon Tea is served daily from 12 noon to 6pm.
C
• The prize is for a winner plus up to three guests – the prize includes full afternoon tea for up to four people. The prize is subject to availability, blackout dates (including key holidays) apply.
• The prize is not transferable to any other Doyle Collection property.
a) Kentish Town b) South Kensington c) Knightsbridge TO ENTER
• The prize must be booked by 31st August 2021 and must be booked at least one week in advance.
• There is no cash alternative. The prize excludes anything in addition to that stipulated and any extras must be paid for on departure by the prize winner or guest. Booking to be made by winner directly with the hotel only. Prize winner must be 18+.
A sumptuous London-themed tea awaits you at The Kensington Hotel in one of the capital’s most exclusive locations
WIN afternoon tea for four in central London
TERMS & CONDITIONS:
73SPRING 2021 | independentschoolparent.com DIARY DATES
Artists at home
The show can go on Online 16TH FEBRUARY & 27TH-28TH FEBRUARY 2021
Book on to one of the National Gallery’s special online events for families during half term for some inspirational, and educational, at-home entertainment. Take part in a free virtual tour and learn how to decode pictures, or listen to a storyteller explain the story behind some of the world’s most famous paintings. nationalgallery.org.uk
A digital and physical circus-theatre experience for children aged two-seven, Play-Along Plink and Boo is a gentle show, exploring the idea of being boxed-in by gender bias. The leading duo encourage viewers to build their own cosy dens and make their own props while watching. cantsitstill.net
Happy birthday Rupert Bear! AVAILABLE NOW
Warhol in the making ONGOING
The Rupert Bear 2021 annual marks the ever-popular bear’s 100th anniversary! The special edition contains a collection of curated stories and activities from the past 100 years and all themed around the idea of celebration and birthdays. amazon.co.uk
Everybody loves Joe ONGOING
The Body Coach, Joe Wicks is back with his über successful ‘PE With Joe’ that gained such an impressive following over the first lockdown. His live PE lessons are held on YouTube every Monday morning and are perfect for all ages to get up and get active at the start of the week! youtube.com
15TH-17TH FEBRUARY
Keeping us entertained at home, the Tate has created a special hub on the Tate Kids section of their website, Tate Make, packed with inspiring ideas for us to get creative, from painting pop art like Andy Warhol to making a kaleidoscope or taking part in a digital photo challenge! tate.org.uk
A GROUP OF US DECIDED TO EXPLORE THE HOUSE LOFT. We found some beamscarved with inscriptions by boys from the 1940s. WE CHRISTENED IT ‘NIRVANA’ AND IT BECAME OUR DEN WHERE WE HID OUT
and found a way of storing it as a paste. We smeared it all over the house, including the bell strike. When the poor first year came to ring the bell to wake us up, there was a fantastic explosion and a cloud of purple smoke.
A game warden in Africa. But as I headed to Newcastle to study mechanical engineering, I was worrying more about machines than animals. I now make bicycles – a contribution to looking after our planet.
Did you win any prizes?
I am not good enough at anything not to be a team player. Our mantra is ‘Brompton does not employ egos’.
finest toast, which we soaked in butter.
WILL BUTLER-ADAMS
Were you a teacher’s pet or always in the detention room?
In my mind I was always the all-star sports captain, but sadly it never quite came off in reality!
What advice would you offer your school-age self?
Describe your school in three words?
Playing full-back in inter-house rugby. Someone booted up an enormous kick and as the ball soared I could see it was coming straight at me. I nailed it and called ‘mark!’ I expected adoration. Instead, the opposition flattened me, grabbed the ball and scored a try. You had to be inside the 22m line to qualify for a ‘mark’ penalty and, focusing on the most important catch of my life, I had drifted outside it. I became known as ‘Mark’, not Will.
74 independentschoolparent.com | SPRING 2021 INTERVIEW
Steep learning curve.
Out for yourself or a team player?
A group of us decided to explore our house loft. We found some beams carved with inscriptions by boys from the 1940s! We shoved up some bean bags, christened it ‘Nirvana’ and it became our den where we hid out. Next
What did you want to be when you grew up?
Did you play any pranks?
SCHOOL MEMORIES
What was your most embarrassing moment?
term we found a padlock had been put on the entrance.
Let’s talk about the food… worthy of a Michelin star or…? Our kitchen had an industrial toaster which produced the
I tried hard (my headmaster called me a ‘fizzy tonic’), but my results were mediocre. I liked most of my teachers, but my A-level physics teacher was inept – we had to correct his mistakes.
Favourite teacher?
One chemistry lesson, our teacher tapped a piece of wood on his desk and it exploded in a puff of purple smoke. He wouldn’t tell us how he did it. My friend and I worked out (no internet then!) it was nitrogen triiodide. We managed to acquire the ingredients to make some
Where was your favourite place at school to hang out?
Don’t be afraid to be different to others.
Will Butler-Adams went on to be CEO of Brompton Bicycle, the renowned foldable bicycles company
No but many gave me sage advice.
The CEO of Brompton Bicycle recalls his seminal years at Rugby School in Warwickshire, and the life lessons garnered along the way
I won the Dewar-Pilkington travel award to help students go on adventures before they head off to university.
All-star sports captain or outside field lingerer?
Scholarships Available at 7+, 11+ and 13+ Please see website for details. Pre-Prep and Prep Admissions: admissions@northwoodschools.com Tel: 020 8682 8830 Senior Admissions: NWSSenior@northwoodschools.com Tel: 020 8682 8821 www.northwoodschools.com NORTHWOOD SCHOOLS A family of schools providing an outstanding education from 4-16 For virtual tours of our school sites, please visit our Open Day Hub: www.northwoodschools.com/virtual-open-day-hubBoys8-13Years 26 BOLINGBROKE GROVE, SW11 6EL Co-educational 11-16 Years 3 GARRAD’S ROAD, SW16 1JZ Girls 8-13 Years 68-74 NIGHTINGALE LANE, SW12 8NR Boys and Girls 4-8 Years 192 RAMSDEN ROAD, SW12 8RQ | 50 NIGHTINGALE LANE, SW12 8TE BROOMWOOD HALL LOWER SCHOOL NORTHCOTE LODGE NORTHWOOD SENIOR BROOMWOOD HALL UPPER SCHOOL
A leading independent school excellence
Day and placesboardingavailableforSeptember2021
in education for 3-13 year olds e SchoolsGoodGuide “Academic results areimpressive”undeniably www.perrotthill.com@perrotthill/perrotthillschool For further information about our award-winning school, please contact our Admissions Registrar on admissions@perrotthill.com or call 01460 72051. Perrott Hill North Perrott Somerset TA18 7SL INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS OF THE YEAR 2020 PREP SCHOOL OF THE YEAR FINALIST BSA AWARDS JUNIORSUPPORTING2020BOARDERSWINNER AMCISAWARDSIMPACT SBRANDING2020AWARDHORTLISTED INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS OF THE YEAR PRE-PREP2019OFTHE YEAR WINNER BSA AWARDS SINNOVATION2019BOARDINGAWARDHORTLISTED
in South Somerset, offering
prep