IN BRIEF s

US and European universities. Headmistress Katharine Woodcock has developed a ‘schooling for life’ approach to the curriculum which champions creativity, collaboration and communication, enabling pupils to develop lateral thinking, leadership and problemsolving skills, as well as the ability to apply empathy and dexterity in all that they do, today and tomorrow.

Linhope House, which has undergone a £5m investment, has enhanced every aspect of an already exceptional sixth-form o ering. The building combines an elegant Georgian exterior and traditional features, such as the Reading Room, with cutting-edge interiors, including a Think Lab and collaborative learning and study spaces. Natural materials, cool colours and abundant natural light have resulted in a serene Scandi-chic decor. The Common Room features a biofarm plant wall, which is known to increase wellbeing, productivity and attention spans.

Best Of The Rest

• WELL VERSED

Sancton Wood School, Cambridgeshire

Finalists took to the stage to compete in the Poetry

Together 2022 poetry writing competition, facing an illustrious judging panel made up of Gyles Brandreth, Waterstones Children’s Laureate Joseph Coelho and award-winning author Lucy Cuthew. The senior school winners were Isabella Davison and Kherlen Ho.

• WORK-LIFE BALANCE

Manchester High School for Girls, Manchester

Come together

Exeter School, Devon

The school welcomed educators from across the region to connect with colleagues at its first education festival, EdFest23. This year’s theme was Educating for Character, and delegates had the opportunity to engage in vital conversations around the development of pupils’ character. The day featured a range of distinguished speakers, including former British Paralympian Claire Harvey MBE, anti-racism strategist Maia Thomas, and Director of Schools, Engagement and Partnership at The Association of Character Education, Andrew Pettit, while the keynote address was made by former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Buckingham, Sir Anthony Seldon.

On the ball

Ashville College, North Yorkshire

Former England and Tottenham Hotspur footballer, Michael Dawson, told sixth formers hard work and determination are key to a successful career. The Sky Sports pundit and Northallerton native was guest speaker at the school’s Future Ready programme, which has featured talks by journalists, digital marketing specialists and investment managers.

Treading the boards

Royal Hospital School, Su olk

Pupils put on a triumphant production of Me and My Girl, showcasing the dramatic and musical talent at the school. The performance had a fournight sell-out run, preceded by a fundraising dinner, with the proceeds going towards the Centennial Bursary campaign – a fundraising initiative to support 100 students with bursaries, by the time of the school’s centenary in 2033.

Medieval to metaverse

Winchester College, Hampshire

Founded in 2021, CATALYST is an educational programme which supplements the traditional school curriculum. Open to ambitious students aged 13 to 18 worldwide, it draws on STEM, history, natural and social sciences and philosophy, to present complex accounts of the world’s challenges. The first intake in 2022 welcomed students from 14 countries.

This term saw the return of Balance Week, a period which allowed pupils and sta to take advantage of opportunities and activities designed to enhance wellbeing, resilience and mental health. The itinerary included archery, circus skills, chocolatemaking and absolutely no homework.

• WRAPAROUND CARE

Fettes College, Edinburgh

Despite recently celebrating its 22nd annual Volunteering Week this year, the school makes a point of practising community outreach all-year round: a case in point being helping at the nearby Queens Manor Care Home, where pupils build friendships with residents, do gardening and assist with general maintenance.

• THE FIRST TAKE

Maida Vale School, London

Talented singers and musicians across all year groups performed in the school’s inaugural Live Lounge in front of their peers and parents. As well as showcasing their talent through an eclectic range of genres, pupils raised money for the Sparkle Foundation, a charity providing services to those in need in Malawi.