Independent School Parent - Prep Summer 2018

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Summer 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

NURSERY & PREP EDITION

Schools

showcase

GRAND COUNTRY HOUSES, GLORIOUS GROUNDS & CLASSICAL ARCHITECTURE

LUDGROVE ON BRILLIANT TEACHING

Expert advice on learning languages

GETTING A SLICE OF PI

DEVELOPING THE NEXT GENERATION OF CODEBREAKERS

WHAT TO DO AT HALF TERM • KINGSLEY SCHOOL IN PICTURES • BEHIND THE SCENES AT BEAUDESERT • HOW TO MANAGE SCREEN TIME • WIN A WEEK AT TENNIS CAMP

An all-through education for your whole family Boys and Girls 2-18 years old Now open - Eaton Square, Kensington A co-educational prep school for ages 4 - 11 Located in the heart of South Kensington To book a tour of any of our Nursery, Preparatory or Upper Schools visit:

www.eatonsquareschool.com

Belgravia

Kensington

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INDEPENDENT SCHOOL

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

Welcome Did you know that there are over 5,000 listed school buildings in England? And what’s more, many of them can be found in the independent sector. In Beautiful Schools, page 12, Thalia Thompson looks at the most enchanting: from Stowe School in Buckinghamshire to Stonyhurst College in Lancashire, it’s easy to see why they are such inspiring places to learn.

Heidi Hughes, Head of The Royal High Junior School in Bath writes about the current myth that studying STEM subjects is of more value to pupils than studying the arts, in Is Creativity a Dirty Word? on page 22.

Do you struggle with helping your child with their maths homework? In Making Maths Fun, page 46, Jill Walker, Head of St Nicholas Prep School in Knightsbridge, advises how to make it an enjoyable experience for both of you.

Summer is around the corner, which means that the tennis season is well under way! If your child has caught the tennis bug but needs some serious tuition, why not enter our competition on page 74, where you can be in with a chance of winning a week at a tennis camp during the summer holidays? You can enter online at independentschoolparent.com/win.

Have a great summer!

COVER: Holmewood House School, Kent.

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

Claudia Dudman, Editor

Independent School Parent, independentschoolparent.com

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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

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

Places for 2018 entry are understandably strictly limited.

Apply today at southbank.org/applynow

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WHAT’S INSIDE? Issue 35 Summer 2018

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News Beautiful Schools

generation of programming prodigies

43

The benefits of the EU Erasmus

Those Who Can, Teach

programme from Craigclowan School

46

Why you don’t have to be a numbers

Is Creativity a Dirty Word?

genius to help your child with maths

48

logical brain outweighs a creative one

Spotting Star Talent How to nurture the “gifted and talented”

28

For the Love of Languages

50 54

Word for Word

32

Get Down to Business How to encourage entrepreneurial spirit

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

The Right Fit

62

56

Scholarships and Bursaries How to apply for financial help

58

Talking Heads

pupils of all sporting abilities

A School in 10 Pictures The Kingsley School, Warwickshire

64

Ones to Watch The up-and-coming stars of the sector

66

An Island Getaway Claudia Dudman explores the serene landscape of Antigua in the Caribbean

73

Green Thailand The Kingdom’s lush countryside has

How to choose a Senior School

The Whole Package

School Hero

The Head of girls’ games who’s inspiring

plenty to offer families

74

How do diamond schools work?

The app that’s helping to improve reading and writing skills

61

Behind the Scenes Beaudesert Park School, Gloucestershire

Is learning a language still important?

30

Making Maths Fun

talented teachers is worth every penny Heidi Hughes tackles the myth that a

25

Bright Sparks

buildings in the independent sector Why investing time and money in

22

Getting a Slice of the Pi How schools are developing a whole new

We look at the most enchanting school

20

34

Our round-up of hot topics

amos, , amaat am

Competition Win a week at an Ace Tennis camp

77

Calendar

82

School Memories

Dates for your diary

How to to ensure your child gets

Broadcaster Ben Fogle fondly recalls his

the right amount of screen time

days at Bryanston School, Dorset

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

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

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SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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“An extraordinary range of extra-curricular activities on offer - we’ve not met anything quite like it.”

The Good Schools Guide

UCS Junior Branch in the heart of Hampstead for boys aged 7-11 Open Evenings for 7+ entry on Thursday 7th June 2018, Thursday 13th September 2018 and Thursday 4th October 2018 Reserve your place by calling 020 7435 3068 Find out more at www.ucs.org.uk UCS Junior Branch, 11 Holly Hill, NW3 6QN @UCSHampstead

NEWS

Our pick of the top parenting and education news

What does it take to be an astronaut?

[Wimbledon High Junior School, London] Year Five’s Big Bang Space Day had pupils tackling five important missions, focusing on space health, Mars rovers, waste in space, crew training and heat shields. With help from Wimbledon High’s Scientists in Residence, the children tested different materials to find out how heatproof they were, and coded Microbit robot cars while facing various obstacles.

“In space health, we learnt about recycling body waste in space, and how you can survive in the harsh environment,” said Year Five pupil, Holly. “It was a really fantastic and enjoyable day!”

Papplewick pupils were delighted to greet an array of animals at the festival ALL CREATURES GREAT AND SMALL [Papplewick School, Berkshire]

AN AWESOME AUTHOR VISIT [King’s Hall School, Taunton] Award-winning children’s author Katherine Rundell joined pupils at King’s Hall Taunton via Skype back in March, as part of the school’s rescheduled World Book Day celebrations.

The snowy weather meant that Katherine couldn’t visit the school in person, but the pupils still had a wonderful time asking her questions and finding out about her trip to the Amazon rainforest. Year Six pupil Maya said: “It was an inspirational visit and I got some great tips on how to write stories!”

Katherine is best known for her children’s books Rooftoppers and The Wolf Wilder.

This year’s Arts Festival at Papplewick featured the theme “All Creatures Great and Small”.

Pupils were delighted to welcome a selection of creatures to the school’s playground, and got stuck into an array of workshops, such as dog handling, “All about Bees”, a reptile park, animal detectives and a quiz. There was also an Arts Festival music competition, which featured both singing and instrument-playing, with individual winners from different year groups and a house competition that culminated in a whole-school “sing-off ”!

STEP INTO THE WILD [Cranleigh Prep School, Surrey] Children in Form Three put their artistic talents to great use by creating a mini exhibition for the annual DSWF Global Canvas Art Competition. In a response to their lessons about endangered species, they focused on the Grevy’s zebra, using clay, drawing, painting and lino printing to build their masterpieces. The children were thrilled to reach the finals, which were held at the Natural History Museum in London.

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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Sch ol tweet

“Reception Class admiring the Mosaic Creations Story on the roof of St Paul’s Cathedral, London” (SInclair House School, @SinclairHouseSc)

Lessons fit for the future [Talbot Heath School, Bournemouth]

Talbot Heath is launching a new curriculum model this September, which will provide pupils with an education in design thinking, digital proficiency, material science, problem solving and ethics. The school’s 10-year “Think Big” vision will prepare students for the exciting future ahead – one of nanotechnology, artificial intelligence and global solutions. Find out more at talbotheath.org

Share your school news and tweet us @ISParent arent

A TASTE OF INDIAN CULTURE [The Manor Preparatory School, Abingdon]

ARE YOU MY MUMMY? [Burgess Hill Girls, West Sussex] What better way to learn about the art of mummification, than by trying out the process on a willing classmate? Pupils worked together to learn about how to embalm “mummies” – washing and drying the bodies with salt, and “removing” the brain and organs. Then, using toilet paper, the mummification commenced! Rest assured, however, all the girls returned home with brains and organs intact.

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independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

Year Two children took part in an “India Day”, dressing up in traditional costumes and engaging in a range of activities. A selection of Indian food was available to try (of which mango chutney was the favourite), and the pupils also learned Bollywood dancing and designed Indian art, using mendhi patterns and paints, to celebrate the festival of Holi.

BREAKING NEWS! The BBC has launched a new online interactive game to help young people identify fake news stories. BBC iReporter, designed by stop-motion animation studio Aardman, gives the player a first-hand experience of what it’s like to work in a newsroom, where speed, impact and accuracy are of the utmost importance. The “choose-your-own-adventure” format takes the user through the various pitfalls thrown up by fake news, and rigorous judgement is needed to ensure the right stories are published with credible facts to back them up. The game is available to play now at bbc.co.uk/ireporter

x + y2 = 4

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Find out how your child could flourish.

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HEADS on the move Jeremy Banks succeeds Simon Doggart as Head of all-boys’ Caldicott School in Buckinghamshire.

Crufts success for Hallfield School [Hallfield School, Birmingham]

Eight-year-old Sophia was thrilled to take Stan, a Bernese Mountain dog, to Crufts this year, where she assisted dog breeder June Miles. Stan came an impressive third in his category, and Sophia placed fourth after going into the activity ring with seven-month-old puppy Jimmy, to demonstrate how to “show” a dog. Her mother said: “I’m very proud of Sophia and Stan for their hard work at Crufts!”

PARALYMPIAN PAYS PUPILS A VISIT [The Hawthorns School, Surrey] The school’s swim team were ecstatic to have Paralympic swimmer Liz Johnson as their coach during one of their training sessions back in March. Liz also shared her story in a school assembly, revealing that her cerebral palsy has never stopped her determination to succeed, having achieved multiple world records and 14 major international medals. Liz said, “Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life. Tip-toe if you must, but take the step.”

Nigel Reed has taken up the reins at Hatherop Castle Prep School in Cirencester.

Sophia Ashworth Jones will join Belmont Grosvenor School, Harrogate in September.

Suzanna Lopez will join Manor House Prep in Leatherhead, Surrey as their new Head.

Sara Williams-Ryan is the new Head of Falcons School for Girls in London from September.

OUT OF THIS WORLD [Solihull School] British Science Week at Solihull School incorporated a mix of out-of-this-world activities alongside a Dragon’s Den-style challenge, in which pupils had to invent their own space shuttles.

The three best inventors from each year group were then invited to explain how their creations worked to the “dragons” (three members of staff ). “The pupils showed off their inquisitive and creative thinking for the challenges we set them,” said Senior Deputy Head Sean Morgan.

“We were delighted with the results!”

A NEW NAMING CONVENTION [Eaton Square Schools Group ] The Eaton Square Schools group has welcomed Eaton Square School, Kensington, formerly known as Hyde Park School, after rebranding to align the collection of central London schools under one name. Based at Elvaston Place, the school was first launched in 1962.

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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Lancing College in West Sussex

The aviary at Cobham Hall, Kent

Stowe School in Buckinghamshire

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Sherborne School in Dorset

PLACES OF LEARNING

Stonyhurst College, Lancashire

Beautiful

SCHOOLS

“Our pupils are fortunate enough to live and work in the most beautiful environment in Britain – it is truly inspiring.” – Anthony Wallersteiner, Stowe School

W

hether they were designed as schools or were once grand country mansions, many places of learning offer a first-class education in some truly awe-inspiring surroundings.

When there are nationally important buildings or landscapes to maintain, schools cannot work alone. In fact, most of the ones featured here work with other heritage organisations to preserve their historic surroundings. In some cases, it is the National Trust or Landmark Trust, while in others a specific charity has been set up. At Stowe School, for example, the Capability Brown designed gardens are the responsibility of the National Trust, whereas the Stowe House Preservation Trust was created to undertake an ambitious restoration programme.

These partnerships also allow for

carefully managed public access. This never impinges on school life; open days are usually during school holidays and where it is more frequent – for example Lancing Chapel (part of Lancing College in Sussex) is open almost every day and attracts 45,000 visitors a year – the demarcation between public access and the school itself is very clear.

Stowe School, Buckinghamshire

J.F. Roxburgh, the school’s founding Headmaster, wanted the school to ensure every pupil would “know beauty when he sees it all his life”, and this former country seat of the Dukes of Buckingham and Chandos is a supremely beautiful place.

The south façade is one of the finest examples of neoclassical architecture in Britain and the elliptical Marble Saloon, surmounted with a richly decorated dome, is a staggering setting for school events – from career fairs to Saturday night ▶ discos. Some of the boarding houses

PHOTOGRAPHY: ALAMY/JASON LEUNG

Cobham Hall, Kent

There are over 5,000 listed school buildings in England, and many of the most spectacular are to be found in the independent sector. Thalia Thompson looks at five of the most enchanting…

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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Stowe School was designed by renowned architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis

Fact File

LANCING COLLEGE

FOUNDED: In 1848 by priest and pioneering educationalist, Nathaniel Woodward.

ARCHITECT: Renowned architect, Richard Carpenter designed the buildings and chapel. The spectacular rose window is by Stephen Dykes Bower, who also worked on Westminster Abbey.

ON THE AIRWAVES: Radio 4’s Any Questions and the Sunday Service have all come from Lancing Chapel.

Fact File

STOWE SCHOOL

PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES/ALAMY

FOUNDED: In 1923, thanks in large part to Sir Clough Williams-Ellis.

The architect, best known as creator of the Italianate village of Portmeirion in North Wales, was instrumental in saving Stowe House and reimagining it as a school.

ARCHITECTS & DESIGNERS: Great names who have worked at Stowe over the decades include Sir John Vanbrugh, William Kent, Lancelot “Capability” Brown, Robert Adam and Sir John Soane.

ROYAL CONNECTIONS: In the house’s heyday, there were frequent visits from British and European royalty. Guests included King Louis XVIII of France, Tsar Alexander I of Russia and Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.

ALUMNI: Sir Richard Branson (top), Chelsy Davy, Howard Goodall and George Monbiot.

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Above, Stowe School features idyllic gardens and spectacular buildings

also have accommodation in former state rooms. For those in Year Ten, this might mean a dormitory in a room that was once slept in by Queen Victoria.

Outside, the idyllic gardens contain over 40 temples and monuments, including the Gothic Temple, the Palladian Bridge and the Temple of Friendship.

“Stowe is a unique school in a sublime setting,” says Headmaster Anthony Wallersteiner. “Our pupils are fortunate enough to live and work in the most beautiful environment in Britain – it is truly inspiring.”

ALUMNI: Evelyn Waugh, Sir Tim Rice (right) and Sir David Hare.

Lancing College, West Sussex

Set high on the South Downs, overlooking the sea, Lancing College and its remarkable chapel dominate the local landscape. The largest school chapel in the world is an architectural masterpiece of gothic revival, with soaring columns, a 90-ft high vaulted ▶ ceiling and one of the biggest rose

“The mellow Sussex sandstone school buildings at Lancing College are nestled alongside the chapel and arranged around an elegant quad.”

‘Excellent’ in all areas ISI Inspection Report, 2016

Whole School Open Morning Wednesday 13th June 9.30am – 12 noon Saturday 22nd September 9.30am – 12.30pm Please contact Admissions on 01923 843230 to book a place

2 mins walk from Northwood Tube

Located adjacent to Northwood Underground Station (Metropolitan Line), 30 mins from Baker Street.

School coaches are available from many locations.

St Helen’s School

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PLACES OF LEARNING

rose windows in the country.

The chapel is a place where the whole school can gather together for weekly services and the Headmaster’s assembly.

“The chapel is very much the heart of our community,” says Diana Cree, Director of External Relations, “and the values that come with it are very strong for everybody here.”

The mellow Sussex sandstone school buildings are nestled alongside the chapel and arranged around an elegant quad. The sheer size of the estate means there’s room for everything, including an open-air amphitheatre, opened by Agatha Christie (above) where the Founder’s Day Play is performed each summer.

There’s innovation, too – a stunning contemporary art block perched on the edge of the campus gives inspiring views over the valley and out to sea.

Fact File

SHERBORNE SCHOOL FOUNDED: After the dissolution of the monasteries, the school was re-founded in 1550 by Edward VI as a free grammar school. It became a boys’ boarding school in 1850.

PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES/ALAMY

ROYAL CONNECTIONS: Parliamentarians requisitioned the school buildings during the English Civil War. The royal arms on the walls were taken down and hidden away until the restoration of the monarchy in 1660.

Traces of Sherborne’s ancient origins are evident throughout the school

Sherborne School, Dorset

Medieval stone walls encompass a rich tradition of education, which goes right back to the eighth century, when Sherborne Abbey was founded in this attractive market town in Dorset. Legend has it that King Alfred was educated here.

Traces of its ancient origins are evident throughout the school, and many of the buildings date as far back as the 12th century. The school library, for instance,

Above, Sherborne School, Dorset.

Below, the library at Cobham Hall, Kent

was formerly the monastery guest house, while the current Headmaster’s offices were once used as the abbot’s house.

The school archivist, Rachel Hassall, maintains the school’s archive and historic collections, which ranges from Anglo Saxon masonry to a 17th-century library.

She explains that historical information can sometimes be found in some unsual and unexpected places.

“Alan Turing was a pupil, and we ▶ discovered that he developed his

SEEN ON SCREEN: Filming for The Imitation Game and the BBC’s Goodbye Mr Chips and Wolf Hall all took place here.

ALUMNI: Alan Turing, Hugh Bonneville (above right), Jeremy Irons and Chris Martin.

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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“There’s something quite moving about walking the same halls as so many others who have gone before us.” – John Browne, Stonyhurst College

interest in codebreaking here,” she says.

“We’ve got the library loans register, which show him borrowing books on cryptography from the school library.”

Fact File COBHAM HALL

FOUNDED: Established as a girls’ boarding school in 1962.

PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES

ARCHITECTS: James Wyatt, the principal architect of the late 1700s and John Webb, Inigo Jones’ most celebrated pupil, both made their mark on Cobham Hall.

ROYAL CONNECTIONS: Queen Elizabeth I visited Cobham Hall in 1559, and Charles I spent part of his honeymoon here. The Duke and Duchess of Kent stayed in 1819, just before their daughter, the future Queen Victoria, was born.

ALUMNAE: Broadcast journalists Mishal Husain and Alex Crawford, and Olympic athlete Kate French.

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Cobham Hall, Kent

Like many stately homes, Cobham Hall has a mix of Tudor, Jacobean, Restoration and 18th-century architecture. Perhaps the jewel in this exquisite house is the Gilt Hall, with its lavish double-height ceiling, elaborate chandelier and marble fireplaces.

This was the music room in the 1770s, and it’s still used for performances today – most recently it provided a suitably fairytale setting for the school production of Beauty and the Beast.

There’s also a picture gallery, neoclassical vestibule and gothic dairy in the grounds, built around 1790 for Elizabeth, Countess of Darnley, as a model dairy in the style of Marie Antoinette, and now being restored by the Landmark Trust.

Stonyhurst College, Lancashire

The magnificent Grade-One-listed manor house at Stonyhurst is one of the largest buildings under a single roof in Europe.

The most unusual building on the site is the domed Victorian Observatory, where the school astronomy society still holds its weekly meetings. But equally impressive is the school’s collection of manuscripts and historic artefacts, with treasures entrusted to the college since the Renaissance. Pupils studying English also have access to a Shakespeare First Folio and manuscript poetry by Gerard Manley Hopkins,

Fact File

STONYHURST COLLEGE

Above, Stonyhurst College in Clitheroe, Lancashire

FOUNDED: The school was established in 1593, to educate the sons of English Catholic nobility at a time when Catholic schools were prohibited in England. The College then moved to the Stonyhurst estate in Lancashire in 1794, and for a time also became a seminary for Jesuit priests.

LITERARY INSPIRATION: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was a pupil here, and Baskerville Hall is said to be based on Stonyhurst. JRR Tolkien (above) wrote Lord of the Rings while staying at the school with his son during World War Two, and it is claimed that the countryside of Middle Earth was inspired by the school’s parkland and the surrounding Ribble Valley.

ALUMNI: Sir Arthur Conan-Doyle (below), former director general of the BBC Mark Thompson and comedian Chris Morris.

while art students can work with original pieces by Durer, Rembrandt and Turner.

“We utilise our wealth of artefacts and years of history to bring learning to life for our pupils,” explains Headmaster John Browne. “There’s something quite moving about walking the same halls as so many others who have gone before us.”

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Headteacher, Ludgrove School, Berkshire

ou always remember a good teacher is a phrase that’s been commonplace since the advent of education.

There are many reasons why teachers are remembered but fundamentally it is in the classroom where a teacher earns their respect, and the challenge facing headteachers is to recruit, nurture and invest in talented members of staff.

There is much debate about how we can promote pupils’ happiness and wellbeing, good teaching lies at the heart of this. It’s the staff who will help children realise their potential, as well as enjoy their time at school. Education in the 21st century is as much about building character and confidence as it is about knowledge and skills. All are intertwined, and when given the right support, every child should be able to prosper.

In my first year as a Headmaster, I was asked in a staff appraisal which I considered to be the most important to a school – the pupils, the parents, or the teachers? Perhaps rather naively, my response was that all are equally important for a happy school. But, of course, happy children and parents are the objective of every school, however this aim is completely unachievable without happy, ambitious and inspirational staff.

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At Ludgrove, pastoral care lies at the heart of everything we do, and our fortnightly exeats allow us to establish a wonderful balance between school and home life. We are unashamedly ambitious for every pupil and proud of our strong academic record, with over 70% of our boys going on to Eton, Harrow, Radley and Winchester.

Underpinning everything is our staff.

They are the role models, and the ones who allow the boys’ confidence to develop in a caring, supportive environment, enabling

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THOSE WHO CAN, TEACH

Simon Barber explains why investing time and money in talented, passionate teachers is worth every penny friendships and good manners to flourish in an atmosphere of happiness and kindness.

In essence, they are the lifeblood of the school.

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the e tr mi e

Going above and beyond for your pupils is what transforms a good teacher into an exceptional one, and investing properly in talented staff is at the core of a successful school. This investment comes in many shapes and forms, the most obvious being remuneration. However, a teacher must also feel that the school is somewhere they enjoy working, with opportunities to explore and improve their skills.

Every member of staff must feel appreciated, happy in their workplace and proud to be part of the team. In fact, when the “Beast from the East” arrived back in February, three of our incredible cleaning

Above, both schools and pupils rely on talented teachers in order to thrive

team walked an hour through the snow just to get into work!

It is currently a very exciting time to be a teacher, as the way in which a curriculum can be delivered has been metamorphised by the digital age. While there continues to be much debate about the best way to teach and assess children, one thing is irrefutable – children enjoy success, and an inspirational teacher will instil in their pupils a love of learning.

By encouraging peer-to-peer mentoring, lesson observations, CPD training and sharing best practice, a school can truly maximise its teaching potential and at the same time develop its teachers. All staff in a school should be aspirational for the children as well as themselves, and Headteachers should leave no stone unturned to promote these aspirations.

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HEIDI HUGHES Headteacher, The Royal High Junior School, Bath

Heidi Hughes addresses the old-age myth that a creative brain is worth less than a logical one

IS CREATIVITY A DIRTY WORD?

I

am lucky enough to be Head of a school in one of the most beautiful cities in the world: the World Heritage City of Bath.

Home to the engineering miracle of the Roman Baths and famed for its iconic Georgian architecture, Bath has played host to many creative minds.

Many legendary minds have had their thinking shaped in this city, including Jane Austen who made it her sometime home, and was inspired by the Georgian shenanigans of its social scene to write some of her greatest novels.

Fizzing with ideas

It’s little wonder then that those who seek to make Bath their home often work in the creative industries themselves. And yet when it comes to educating their children, parents often have mixed feelings about creativity and the part it should play.

I think we can all agree that young children, as Tham Khai Meng, worldwide Chief Creative Officer of Ogilvy & Mather,

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I believe that creativity isn’t something you can learn, but something that is alive in all of us as children, hi h e ee to h r ess he to o rish puts it so succinctly “fizz with ideas”. But many have expressed concern that children in our education system have this fizz extinguished once they start school.

The great educationalist Sir Ken Robinson claimed that creativity was as important as literacy. In fact, as Sir Ken and many others including Lord Robert Winston, have pointed out, the greatest

Above, creativity sets children free to explore their learning

inventors and scientists were almost always musicians, artists, writers or poets, too.

Many people might not know, for instance, that Galileo was also a poet and literary critic, Einstein was a passionate student of the violin and Leonardo da Vinci was fascinated with engineering.

At my school, we changed the way we approached the curriculum six years ago to

CREATIVE LEARNING

put creativity at the beating heart of what we do. It was a bold decision, but one we believed in and still do. And we must be doing something right, because we have been nominated twice in a row for the TES Education Awards Creativity Award!

So, why have we chosen to do this? We have reason to believe that creativity in some quarters has almost become a dirty word, which in turn has sullied the waters of what it stands

Above, pupils enjoy painting in the classroom

for. Mention creativity, and many will think that you are talking exclusively about the arts and music. Some parents might even assume that a creative school is a school which specialises in the arts alone.

What’s creative about science and tech?

Most parents will have heard of STEM, but STEAM is a buzzword that’s become increasingly popular in schools, incorporating the arts into science, technology, engineering and maths.

And while it has its merits, I believe this concept actually defeats the point of what

we’re trying to achieve. Of course, the greatest minds in STEM still need to be creative, just as the greats minds in the arts do. Adding the “a” for “arts” into STEM does very little to increase the understanding of why creativity should be at the heart of every field of study.

The TES Independent Schools Awards describe their Creativity Award as one for schools “that put creativity at the heart of their work”. They explain: “This isn’t about individual projects in art, drama, music or design – although it could take in one or all of these subjects – this is about making children think differently, beyond the strictures of the conventional curriculum.”

I believe that creativity isn’t something you can learn, but something that is alive in all of us as children, which we need to harness and help to flourish. On a practical level, we need to look at how our young children are learning in a world where we cannot possibly even predict which kind of careers lie ahead for them in the future.

And let’s not forget that the UK’s own Creative Industries, which include advertising, film and TV, architecture, publishing, music, design, games, museums and galleries, fashion crafts and the creative use of technology, are among the most successful in the world, netting £92 billion a year for the UK economy.

Creative jobs do earn money after all – another myth expounded!

Next time someone tells you your child is creative, remember that does not hamper their learning – it simply sets them free to explore it. I agree wholeheatedly with Rufus Norris, Director of the National Theatre, currently campaigning against the downgrading of creativity, who says: “Creative confidence brings initiative and freedom of thought, an understanding of teamwork and communication that sits at the heart of a dynamic and successful working life.”

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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COMMENT

BEN EVANS

T

he definition of “star talent” or “gifted” means different things to different people.

For me, a child with undisputable star talent is someone who excels far beyond the ordinary or the expected. Equally, children who display advanced competency in a certain subject or demonstrate a much deeper understanding than their peers, or indeed display an ability to listen and improve rapidly, can all be defined as having a “gift”.

So, how do you spot gifted children?

What should you be looking for? Academic ability is usually recognised first, perhaps somewhat superficially, but via numerical standardised scores. With this gift, however, must come an ability to reason, think coherently, question intelligently and reveal a spark, which is something that can’t be measured scientifically.

Is there any difference between gifted and talented? I believe so. Children may have a talent for art, music, drama or sport, and that’s something their teachers will probably notice during normal lessons, observations and discussions.

The signs are that they may progress rapidly during each lesson, show a keen and sustained interest, go beyond the age-related expectations and again, have that “something special” that indicates they have unusual ability.

However, the difficulty in spotting gifted children is that there is usually no set pattern or rule. The obvious would point to those more able academically, who can grasp concepts and skills more easily.

But we must also be careful not to overlook those children who are naturally shy or lack confidence, as they may be overshadowed by those more articulate and self-assured. Nurture these children carefully, and after a boost in their self-esteem, their own unique gifts and talents should have chance to develop.

Headmaster, Edge Grove School, Hertfordshire

Right, children’s talents should always be nurtured

SPOTTING STAR TALENT How do we identify and nurture those children who are “gifted and talented”? Ben Evans investigates To make an informed judgement on your child’s “gifted” ability, you need to ensure the best possible levels of interest, progress and attainment. How can they be challenged to work beyond their comfort zones and make the optimum progress?

They may fear failure, so parents and teachers need to ensure that support is in place to help when they don’t succeed, but also to build the resilience and selfconfidence to keep on trying. Likewise, children need some reality, too –

progression will not always be easy, and it’s important that parents can offer the right encouragement.

Spotting the gifted can be identified quickly if children are encouraged to follow their talents, and if they have adquate room to develop those skills. This might mean creating opportunities that allow this to happen, but if we are serious in our commitment to nurture talent, we need to adapt to individual needs. After all, children are the future!

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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ADVERTORIAL

I

n our rapidly changing society, the importance we place on pastoral care is more vital than ever. At Pangbourne College, this focus provides the foundation upon which our community is built.

The school’s ethos centres around seven core “Flag Values”: kindness, selflessness, moral courage, industry, initiative, resilience and integrity, which run through everything we do. This foundation is also supported by well-thought-out systems and structures that staff and students can commit to and engage with.

A recent example for this has been an AIM Apprenticeships campaign called Understanding Mental Health within Children and Young People. This is a fully-funded short course that leads to a nationally recognised Level Two qualification, and we’ve had over 50 voluntary enrolments from staff.

AHEAD OF THE CURVE Caroline Bond, Deputy Head Pastoral, shares how Pangbourne College is leading the way in pastoral care

Finding a resolution

Practical workshops like this complement the work our staff put in each day, from monitoring behaviour to assessing personal development. Alongside this, we are now able to reinforce the practical element with the use of concrete data.

We are also trialling AS Tracking here at Pangbourne, which provides an innovative means of monitoring pupil behaviours that may highlight pastoral concerns. This is done by measuring pupils’ cognitive biases and detecting wellbeing risks.

In what can be a pressurised environment, the demands from wanting at school to fit in can further enhance any instabilities. As teachers, we want to take every opportunity to recognise potential problems as early as possible, and this data-driven approach could provide a consistently reliable method to reinforce the pastoral systems already in place.

On top of the trends

Share your thoughts on Twitter @ISParent

The digital development of society can also have an effect on our children throughout their pathway to adulthood.

Trends online can be hugely influential, but not always in a positive way.

So, to help us keep ahead of the “digital curve” in terms of any negative trends, we have built on the success of our Peer Mentoring scheme to give students the option to train as “Digital Champions”.

This provides us with an extra layer of pastoral support and advice for younger students, as well as giving a means of keeping teachers and parents abreast of the latest digital trends and innovations.

Utilising external expertise can also provide a refreshing approach to pastoral aspects. As part of our PSHCE programme, we compile a comprehensive schedule of speakers to address our students on matters most relevant to them, including sensitive topics such as bullying, substance abuse and pornography.

Providing programmes for staff and students that broadly address pastoral issues is essential, but we must also remember that it is the individual which matters. The more we can educate all members of our community on the subject, the greater the positive impact on each individual student will be.

Part of our peer mentoring scheme is to provide an extra layer of support, as well as giving a means of keeping teachers and parents abreast of digital trends

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

27

LANGUAGES

DAVID WALKER

Head of Curriculum, Farlington School, Horsham, West Sussex

FOR THE LOVE OF LANGUAGES

T

David Walker contemplates the importance of learning modern foreign languages as the UK approaches Brexit

he day after the EU referendum result, many language teachers found themselves having to rebuff the idea that it now meant there was no need for language lessons!

This theory was, of course, wrong, and the British Council’s “Languages for the Future” study usefully identifies that Spanish, French and German remain among the top five languages that the UK will need following Brexit.

The nation’s schools are facing an ongoing challenge by providing these, following the predictable effect of the removal of Modern Foreign Languages as a compulsory subject in 2002. This has led to fewer students studying languages at school and then at university, and,

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independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

therefore, a smaller pool from which to recruit new language teachers. In fact, some universities are now struggling to fill places on MFL teacher training courses.

There is no doubt that it is time for MFL to regain its previous status and be valued in the same way as STEM subjects. At Farlington School, we regard languages as part of a good, rounded education, guiding our future Year 10 pupils to a curriculum that includes at least one modern foreign language. Learning a language isn’t always easy, but language qualifications are highly respected by both society and commerce, can be great fun and are an invaluable personal and business skill.

At Farlington, each classroom includes a small stage on which

Above, pupils at Farlington benefit from a flexible timetable for their language classes

girls enjoy performing foreign language sketches that they create together. Seating is either round-table or theatre-style, allowing pupils to interact easily with each other.

Prep pupils are taught French from Reception and Spanish from Year Three, with extra-curricular clubs in German and Mandarin. In Years Seven and Eight, girls are taught Spanish and French, with German added to the mix in Year Nine and Italian in Year 10. Multilingual staff and a flexible timetable also ensure that pupils study their preferred combination of languages, which makes a huge difference to their motivation.

We need schools, parents, language organisations and the Government to collectively address the language deficit, and ensure that our young people are equipped for the international world – Brexit or no Brexit – that they will soon be entering.

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WeAreWellington SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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LEARNING TO READ

WORD FOR WORD Lucy Siani of My Word Buddy™, explains how the app is helping to improve children’s reading and writing abilities

W

e all know how important it is to find the time to sit down and read with our children. However, sometimes there just aren’t enough hours in the day to give them the amount of attention they need.

This is why we developed My Word Buddy™, a reading app that helps children learn to read independently without adult supervision. If you’re a parent with a hectic lifestyle, this app is a great way to ensure that your child’s reading development is never interrupted. It’s even useful for those

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independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

who speak other languages and are learning English for the first time.

Simply type a word into the app, and watch it display and sound the word out phonetically. Children are given the freedom to read and learn to spell new words at their own pace, and they’re even taught how to use a keyboard – a fundamental skill for their early years.

The app carries a range of words divided into academic year groups, so it’s easy to find a level that’s suitable for your child. Through using My Word Buddy™, they’ll also develop their independent learning

Above, children can learn at their own pace when using the app

skills – both of which are essential in today’s educational system.

What’s great about the app is that it encourages your child to use their device for something other than playing games or watching TV. And as the app is available for both mobile or tablet devices, it means children can take it anywhere.

As your child’s spelling improves, so will their creative writing and comprehension skills. And at a time when exams are the only form of assessment at GCSE level, fast and accurate reading and writing skills are more crucial than ever.

Try My Word Buddy™, and you might be surprised by how much easier life gets!

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SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

31

COMMENT

A

t Knightsbridge School, Naomi, a 10-year-old pupil, asked if she could show me some dresses that she had drawn in her spare time. I thought they were outstanding, and proposed that we transform her sketches into real-life garments. With some help, her designs were brought to life.

This is when we decided to launch the very first KS Entrepreneur collection, inviting other Senior students at the school to show off their creative wares in a biannual competition. The contest, which was established in 2013, encourages pupils to design their own products in their own time over a course of five months. All entries are then displayed on stands in front of our judges and over 300 customers. Every child who participates must invest in and market their own product, and can choose what happens to any profits they make –whether they’d rather reinvest or donate to charity.

The competition is based on the 4Ps: Product – what I will make and what service I can offer; Price – how much I will sell it for; Place – how I will set up my market stall at the event; and Promotion – how I will get all my family and friends to come along and buy the product. Previous winners have had the privilege of taking over the perfumier Jo Malone’s shop “Jo Loves’’ for the day.

In our latest KS Entrepreneur collection, there were over 70 pitches and 21 finalists, including Sleep Masks, Genoese Pesto & Pasta, KS Ear Muffs and Prickly Pets. The winner was Gravity Apples (pictured right), created by S5 pupil Kristina. These were supermarket-spurned organic “ugly” fruit, which she dehydrated and packaged beautifully. For every sale made, a tree was planted from the proceeds. A genius idea, brilliantly executed and unbelievably tasty!

“Why do we go to school?” is a frequent question asked of me, but my responses are

32

independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

MAGOO GILES

Principal, Knightsbridge School, London

GET DOWN TO BUSINESS Embracing an entrepreneurial spirit is part of what going to school is all about, writes Magoo Giles Above, Genoese Pesto Pasta was one of this year’s entries

plentiful. School helps us develop and enjoy learning new things, meet friends, stay fit and healthy, and equips us with the skills needed for tomorrow, so we feel useful to society. If we are lucky enough to go to a school where we fit in, and feel safe and nurtured, it allows our creative juices to flow and allows us to develop our individual strengths, often

building up our resilience.

One of the key elements for anyone interested in creativity is the ability to have a go at something and do our best without fear of failure, or in the case of creating something, being left with product that has not sold and learning from your mistakes.

Congratulations to all the Knightsbridge School Entrepreneurs on embracing a real “this century” education. To those who didn’t get through this time, keep going!

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SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

33

A-LEVELS & GCSES

CHARLOTTE PHILLIPS

National newspaper journalist

GETTING A SLICE OF THE PI Technology may not have the wow factor of a shiny new performing arts centre on open days, but schools that know their Python from their Raspberry Pi are developing a whole new generation of programming prodigies, says Charlotte Phillips

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independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

A-LEVELS & GCSES

Left, pupils at Pocklington School, East Riding of Yorkshire

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SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

RGS THE GRANGE, WORCESTER If some of RGS The Grange’s Year Five pupils end up becoming tomorrow’s leaders in the field of technology, Head of Computing and IT Matt Warne won’t be a bit surprised. He’s charged current Year Five pupils, aged just nine and 10, with helping younger pupils in Year Three to boost their iPad skills.

They’ve embraced the challenge with impressive enthusiasm. Once a week they race through their lunch, so that they can devote the rest of their break to helping these younger pupils. Mr Warne is there to oversee the 30-minute lessons, but planning, content and delivery are completely up to them.

All Year Five and Year Six pupils are digital leaders for internet safety, and deliver assemblies on the subject to other pupils. “Give them a chance and they will prove to you that they’re very capable.”

F

orget lions, witches and wardrobes. At RGS The Grange in Worcester, it’s the staircase leading up to the IT department that has a particularly magical dimension. Each step plays a note, courtesy of the school’s tech-savvy pupils.

Work your way up or down and you can perform an entire scale. The particularly fleet of foot can presumably conjure up a series of rippling arpeggios.

And all it takes, says Matt Warne, Head of Computing and IT at the school, is a bit of know-how, courtesy of a nifty piece of software that can turn anything that conducts electricity – including bananas and Plasticine (who knew?) – into a keyboard.

At Bury Catholic Prep School, Greater Manchester, augmented reality is adding movement and excitement to lessons like history. Why limit yourself to a static

36

independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

Right, pupils at Dulwich College, London embrace the delight of tech

“As we’re frequently reminded by reports from august bodies such as the universities of Oxford and Cambridge, the robots are coming and they’re after our jobs.”

Above, Kingswood School, Herts

picture of the Roman army, when you can point an iPad at it and trigger a video of pupils in Years One and Two marching in formation? “It really brings lessons to life,” says the school’s ICT Coordinator Helen Lent.

Robotics and AI

At Latymer Prep in west London, Year Six pupils programme a

small, smiley robot that can not only move around by itself but – with help from Head of Computing, Nic Hughes – is able to develop a sense of self-preservation, stopping before it falls off the edge of a table.

Robotics, artificial intelligence and programming have been around in schools for ages, but could feel a bit niche. Then came the Government’s 2013 review of the primary curriculum, prompted by the realisation that while technology in the wider world was fizzing with creativity and innovation, this wasn’t reflected in the way it was being taught in schools. Instead of finding out how to programme, pupils were confined to the basics, like learning to use existing software programmes competently.

It was all worthy stuff, but – well – just a bit dull. Pointless, too, said computing experts, ▶

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Left and right, Pocklington School, East Riding of Yorkshire

“Prodigies aside, there isn’t yet a teacher alive who grew up with the technology that today’s pupils take completely for granted.” because it failed to teach the skills that high-tech firms needed to plug their ever-widening recruitment gap.

Fast forward five years and technology is getting the attention it deserves. While it may not have the open day wow-factor of a shiny new performing arts centre, schools that know their Python from their Raspberry Pi are helping develop a whole new generation of code breakers and programming prodigies.

It doesn’t mean that the computing basics are being neglected. As Andrew Storey, Director of ICT at Dulwich College points out, children still need to know the nuts and bolts of how to use their computers efficiently. After all, there’s no point being able to design an app if you don’t know how to save a document. As a result, the college runs an informatics course from Year Seven. Its four modules include e-safety and cybersecurity and coding, as well as a comprehensive run down on avoiding common problems with software and devices.

“Pupils don’t always have skills even in using

Word effectively,” says Andrew Storey. “If you’ve got a new computer at home, you need to know the basic things you should do, like setting the back-up correctly, virus checking and security.”

The best show in town

While the need to cover the basics is a given, that’s just the start. Technology lessons these days are fast becoming the whizziest show in town, thanks to a new emphasis on learning coding skills and using them to make things happen. Even the very youngest pupils – three, four and five-year-olds – are getting in on the act.

If their curriculum sounds radically different, that’s because it is, emphasising building and creating rather than static, screen and keyboard-dominated learning.

“It’s like being able to drive a car and then to suddenly be asked to design an engine and build it from scratch,” says Storey.

At Pocklington School, Nursery pupils use remotecontrolled cars to create sequences and solve challenges, like carrying a pencil from one end of

BURY CATHOLIC PREP SCHOOL, MANCHESTER Year Three pupils recently won joint first prize in the Discovery Education ISA Junior Coding Competition. The space-themed competition inspired Bury pupils to design an unusual adventure for The Queen, who ends up being blasted into space with her corgis, landing on Mars. The young designers, aged just eight, impressed judges with their humour and imagination. Another competition win was for a Year Six pupil who created an online advertisement in a competition run by Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) to mark Clean Air Day in 2017 and raise awareness of poor air quality. The video – which even got a cinema big screen premiere together with the other shortlisted entries – encouraged people to think how their travel choices influence the environment. The animation attracted over 4,000 views online as well as wowing the judges.

the classroom to the other. “They’re initiating their own challenges, having a discussion about left and right as well as position and direction,” says Mrs Cath Sweeting, Assistant Head (Curriculum).

“By the time they start formal computing lessons in Year Two, they already have ▶

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

39

A-LEVELS & GCSES

It has been suggested that girls perform better in steady coursework and continuous assessment

Above, Pocklington School, Yorkshire.

Right, Latymer School, London

Left, Latymer School, west London

POCKLINGTON PREP SCHOOL, YORKSHIRE Pupil Zac Stewart won the Samsung Innovation Challenge in 2015 when he was only in Year Five. Zac’s brainwave was a program for a kitchen bin incorporating a barcode reader. By recording everything that was thrown away and adding it to an online shopping list, items could be automatically re-ordered and delivered – a hassle-free and time-saving solution for busy households. Zac, who was one of three UK competition winners, won an Arduino Uno Board for his idea.

His interest in coding also extends to school life. A notable achievement was to add extra excitement to the end of term assemblies with a program that gives final totals for merits and distinctions their own big reveal on screen.

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that idea of making something work.”

Admittedly, it’s not just pupils who have been in need of inspiration but teachers as well. Unlike every other area on the curriculum, robotics and coding are new subjects to them. Prodigies aside, there isn’t yet a teacher alive who grew up with the tech that today’s pupils take for granted.

High-tech gizmos

Then there are the parents to be won round. Some are converts to the idea.

Others might question whether all those high-tech gizmos have the same educational value as maths and English.

Hampshire Collegiate School’s Deputy Head, José Picardo, is in no doubt. The author of Using Technology in the Classroom, he’s also been named in the UK Edtech 50.

Mr Picardo says that the key isn’t teaching technology for the sake of it, but using it to make learning and teaching as effective as they can be. “It’s all about how children learn best, how teachers learn best and how tech layers on to those processes to make them learn even better.”

“I can’t think of another subject that actually engages in such a way that the children have to make mistakes and where they have to be patient,” says Matt Warne at RGS The Grange, who has also qualified as a master teacher with Computing at School, an organisation that brings together around 20,000 computing enthusiasts

DULWICH COLLEGE, SOUTH LONDON David Coxon, a Year Seven lower school pupil has been singled out as one of the top achievers in computational thinking for his age.

Over 40,000 children in his age range (10-12) entered the UK BEBRAS Computational Thinking Challenge.

David was one of just 60 to be invited to the final round and was presented with his certificate by Peter Millican, Prof of Philosophy at Hertford College, Oxford.

The competition is highly demanding, with entrants asked to tackle a range of questions inspired by topics in computer science.

to share ideas.

It’s this sort of focus that is helping to equip children with the vital skills that should help boost their future employability. As we’re often being reminded by reports from august bodies such as the University of Oxford, the robots are coming, and they’re after our jobs.

“We live in a volatile world,” confirms Duncan Murphy at Kingswood House School in Surrey. “It’s believed that 80% of the jobs our children will do haven’t been invented yet, while 50% of jobs that exist today will go over the next 25 years. So we have to prepare our children today for the world of tomorrow, and if we use a system, like basic reading or writing, that was designed for the Victorian age, then we’re doing them a disservice.”

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Part of the Reigate Grammar School Family

STEM

E

ver been inspired to create your own invention? Eureka!

Past, Present and Future! is a project that aims to foster entrepreneurship, and promote the message that anyone has the capability of becoming an inventor.

Funded through the EU Erasmus programme (a student exchange scheme), the project has been designed to inspire young people to build on their initiative, and demonstrate that through hard work, teamwork, cooperation and leadership, they can become the great creative minds.

BRIGHT SPARKS

It starts with an idea...

Eureka! – which began in September 2016 and will end this November – is managed here at Craigclowan Prep School, Scotland, but four other schools are also involved: Scoala Ginmnaziala in Romania; Aristotelia College in Greece; Instituto Comprehensivo in Italy; and Ecole Saint Victor in France.

During the first year, pupils were tasked with examining existing inventions from their own countries, and then met in Thessaloniki and Paris to share their research. This year, however, pupils have had the thrilling opportunity to create and develop inventions of their own.

At Craigclowan School, pupils from Forms Six and Seven (aged 11-12) have been working arduously to create an invention that will “help to make life better”. During the summer holidays, they carried out their research, talking to family and friends to identify everyday problems that an invention might solve.

All 16 teams had wonderful ideas, including “The Dog Wash”, which helps to keep your dog in the bath while they’re being washed, and the “Midge

Carol Dibnah shares how a creative project funded by the EU Erasmus programme is inspiring a brand-new generation of young inventors Above, pupils take part in the Invention Ideas fair at Craigclowan School

Buster”, as anyone living in Scotland knows what an annoyance midges are! Other designs included the “Attracto-Key”, which is a magnetic key designed to help anyone who struggles to get their key into the lock, and the “Desk Clipper”, which keeps your paper secure while you are working.

Pitch perfect

In February, we held an Invention Ideas Fair, where each team had a chance to pitch their ideas to the judges, staff, pupils and parents. The winning team was the “Electro-Magnet” – a magnet that you can place under a cup to stop it being knocked

over. What the judges loved about it was the simplicity of the idea, the team spirit, the professionalism of the pupils and the potential of this unique invention.

The runner-up team were the inventors of “The Finder”, a device that can be sown into name-tags and linked to an app, which then allows you to find lost possessions.

These two teams will now be travelling to Romania, where they will present their ideas and learn about the invention ideas of pupils from other schools.

Running the Eureka! project at our school has provided such a fantastic opportunity for collaborative and cross- ▶

There has been a real buzz of anticipation around the school, not least from the lucky hi re st ho i e isiti om i

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

43

STEM

curricular learning.

Pupils have been working on the designs and prototypes for their inventions in design and technology lessons, and in drama they also prepared commercials for their inventions.

Science lessons gave them the chance to explore the different materials they could use, and in ICT they prepared websites, presentations and promotional materials.

The project has also coincided with all pupils at Craigclowan School being given Chromebooks, which has hugely impacted the way in which they work together, both remotely from home and in school.

Learning in this way comes with its own challenges, but the life experience of working as part of a team on such a meaningful project has proven as valuable as the final outcome.

Our pupils rose to this challenge with such enthusiasm and diligence, and it’s wonderful to see that new friendships have been fostered among those who might otherwise not have chosen to work together.

A bright future ahead

We have also had huge support from a nearby Senior School, Strathallan School, who offered us the use of their advanced CDT facilities to make our prototypes.

Craigclowan pupils met with the staff and Sixth Formers studying design technology for a Saturday workshop, and seeing the Sixth Formers guide and teach the younger pupils was wonderful.

Everyone benefited from this event, and the younger children were so inspired by the experience and knowledge shared.

The added dimension of knowing that there are pupils from four other schools in four different European countries also working on this project has added tremendous excitement. There has been a real buzz of anticipation around school, not least from the lucky children and staff who will be visiting Romania.

The next phase will be to explore the possibility of taking these ideas into a commercial marketplace, thus realising the initial dream of the project – to foster the idea that anyone can be an inventor!

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independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

The pupils were tasked with pitching their ideas to judges

The winning team’s idea was called “The Electro Magnet”

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JILL WALKER

Headmistress, St Nicholas Preparatory School, London

MAKING MATHS FUN Jill Walker explains why you don’t have to be a genius with numbers to help your child enjoy maths

I

t’s said that if children can discover things for themselves rather than being told, they find them a lot more exciting and satisfying. I believe this is just as true of maths as it is of any other subject, and if parents get into the habit of using simple maths in an everyday context, their children will be able to understand it, too, as well as learn valuable life skills. So, what exactly are the easiest ways of introducing your child to the world of maths?

Share your thoughts on Twitter @ISParent

Use everyday tasks

Finding the maths in everyday tasks, such as going shopping or cooking dinner, is an easy way not only to practise maths, but also to show why it’s important to know how to divide, multiply, subtract and so on.

In a world that increasingly relies on plastic rather than cash, opportunities to use actual money are less common than they used to be. But when the opportunity arises, use it to engage children. Give them a handful of change and ask them to work out whether they have enough money to

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buy this book or that bar of chocolate.

Have them hand over the money and count the change when it comes back. Ask them to add the cost of two items together, and see what would be left if they used the money in their hand.

Even if you aren’t heading out to the shops, you can play “shopping” at home.

Try lining up your children’s toys, price them, buy and sell them. For your child, it’s a game rather than a maths lesson, but

once they get to their next maths lesson, it should come to them with ease because they will recall your game together. A head-start is often all it takes for them to feel confident and happy at school.

Sing the numbers

Children love to sing, so use the many counting songs out there to embed number familiarity. “Ten green bottles…”, “The animals went in two by two…”, “Five little

LEARNING AT HOME

Five Maths Questions to Ask your Child 1. You’re sorting out the laundry.

How many pairs of socks do you have? So, how many socks are there altogether?

2. We need to share the chocolate equally. How many pieces should each person receive?

3. Your pocket money is £3 a week.

How long will it take for you to save up for…?

4. We need to leave the house in 20 minutes. Can they tell you what time that will be?

ILLUSTRATOR: ANDY WARD

5. If the jeans cost £20 and there is 25% discount in the sale, how much do they cost now?

ducks…” and all the other favourites can boost a child’s numerical abilities from a very young age. And because they are easy to remember, this is a lesson that should stay with them for some time to come.

Count as you do

Maths does not need to be complicated, especially if you have very young children.

Something as simple as counting the steps up to bed, or looking at the shapes in

Above, playing “shopping” is a great way to get your child to practise maths

paving slabs and counting the sides, or even laying the table and counting out how many pieces of cutlery are needed for each person, is just as useful as complicated equations and percentages (although if you can add these in for older children, then all the better).

Get the board games out

A simple board game in which a child has to roll a dice and move forward a set

number of spaces can be a wonderful technique for teaching maths. Snakes and Ladders is particularly good – not least because a player can go backwards as well as forwards. Ask the child how many squares the snake took them back, or have them find the difference between where they were and where they are now that they have scurried up a ladder. Just learning what a number looks like on a dice is an incredible start. Older children can benefit a lot from learning how to play Monopoly, which involves calculating costs in an enjoyable and competitive way.

Gradually introduce them to complexity

As your children grow, they will need more sophisticated maths to keep their interest and to teach them new things. This is the perfect time to teach them money management on top of their everyday maths skills – opening a savings account and working out how much money to put into it each month, for example. Saving up for something specific over a certain length of time is a great way to engage them.

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

47

BEHIND THE SCENES

Beaudesert Park School, Stroud, Gloucestershire Allow children to learn through play and you’ll see them flourish, says Kirsty Henderson, Head of Pre-Prep

THE JOY OF LEARNING

P

eek inside the Pre-Prep “goings-on” here at Beaudesert and, to the untrained eye, it might be difficult to grasp that the children are doing more than just having fun.

They might well be swathed in a mix of dressing-up box treasures, eye-catching artwork will festoon the rooms, and activities could encompass anything from singing in rounds to making tree-branch dens. But spend a couple more minutes taking things in, and even the untrained eye might begin to see structure where they initially only spotted free play.

To my mind, this is just as it should be, and as a Pre-Prep, it’s important that we teach children what they need to know and bring out their individual abilities. The best way to do this is to adopt techniques that are fun,

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because the more the children enjoy their time at school, the more they learn and the more solid their understanding.

Bringing learning to life

When schools get this right, they achieve two crucial goals. The first is that children are enthused by their experiences, and can build a more solid foundation in the key learning areas of maths and language (even if they think they’re just playing). The second is that, by sowing the right seeds, children discover the joy of learning and become more open to new experiences.

While maths, handwriting and spelling are taught in standalone style, the bulk of the other subjects are taught using topic work. Each topic needs to lend itself to teaching children about science, history, geography and more. It should also be something that the teachers enjoy and can feasibly bring to life, without blowing the budget or

BEHIND THE SCENES

Left, when pupils discover the joy of learning, they become far more open to new experiences

soaking up valuable teaching time. Most important of all, it must be a subject that can capture any child’s imagination.

A cross-curricular approach

Our Fire of London topic, for instance, was a big hit. The children could link their work to a significant event in British history, comparing life in the 17th century with that of modern times. We explored the food people ate and the jobs they had, as well as why the fire started and spread – all of which helped embed science, history and geography learning.

Next, we honed design and technology to create mini versions of where the fire took hold. Then for the finale – setting fire to our cardboard version of Pudding Lane, and the children were enthralled!

Another favourite was “Shiver Me Timbers”. Under the guise of learning about pirate ships and swashbuckling battles, the pupils were also inspired to learn other skills and facts along the way.

Sea creatures were scrutinised, while geography and art tools were used to create and navigate pirate maps.

If all this sounds demanding of teaching staff, it is! There’s often a misconception that teachers of young children have it easy, but that couldn’t be further from the truth – we are lucky to be blessed with a superb team of multi-talented individuals.

However, perhaps the most important take-away is that having fun at school isn’t just enjoyable, but essential if children are to learn in ways that appeal to them and succeed in embedding knowledge. The real trick is in making it look easy! ISP

Left, the children learned about why The Great Fire of London started on Pudding Lane in 1666

Having fun at school isn’t just enjoyable, but essential if children are to learn in ways that appeal to them and succed in embedding knowledge

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

49

CHOOSING A SCHOOL

W

hen choosing a school for your child, you should look for one that focuses on all-round development. Parents tend to pay a lot of attention to academic outcomes, which are certainly important in terms of future educational aspirations and careers. But what is also of great significance is the development of the individual.

o fi e t

ts

Here at Queen Ethelburga’s, we place great emphasis on our children growing into resilient, caring, compassionate and confident adults, who develop independence and initiative, and who can take responsibility for their own learning and futures. We provide opportunities for pupils to take part in a range of wider enrichment and extra-curricular activities to help them to gain skills in leadership, teamwork and collaboration, and decision making. These are so crucial for the future, as our society becomes culturally diverse, requiring mutual respect, understanding and tolerance.

Schools continue to be judged on their

STEVEN JANDRELL

Principal, Queen Ethelburga’s College, York

THE RIGHT FIT How can you ensure your child hits the ground running at their new Senior School? Steven Jandrell explains examination results, and league tables are produced to show how well they fare on this measure. What is important is how well they are doing with each individual in their care. Are they adding value to a

Left, ask if the school will add value to your child’s education

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independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

Above, Queen Ethelburga’s College, York

pupil’s education, helping them to improve and make progress, regardless of their starting point? We enjoy excellent results each year for our students, but are proud of ▶ the degree to which we stretch and

Whitgift.

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51

CHOOSING A SCHOOL

The right school for your child should bring out the very best in them

challenge each one of them. We instil in our pupils the Hill Standard – “to be the best that I can with the gifts that I have”.

Each child is important, special and gifted in their own way and the best schools will discover and nurture this in your child.

find that our middle school system, with its many opportunities for leadership roles, enables pupils to gain a higher level of maturity, independence and confidence than they might otherwise have had.

What about pastoral care?

The learning pathway

It is also important that the school caters for your child’s preferred learning pathway.

Every child learns differently, and more schools now offer a variety of learning approaches to ensure each student reaches their potential. In our Faculty, we offer students the opportunity to do GCSEs and A-Levels, but they can also undertake a wide range of creative and vocational BTEC qualifications. Across both the College and the Faculty, we invest heavily, both in time and staffing, to make sure that individualised programmes of study benefit each student and their chosen academic pathway.

The school should bring out the very best in your child. There are a number of ways in which schools are structured. We have a middle school, which covers Year

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independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

Six to Nine, and this enables us to develop a transition year from primary to secondary education, making the process much smoother.

Our Year Six core curriculum is designed in collaboration with secondary school teachers, but delivered by primary specialists. We also benefit from specialist teaching in areas such as drama, design technology, art, music and computing. We

Above, there are a host of sports on offer at most Senior Schools

You also need to feel confident that your child will be looked after, happy and safe.

Each school has its own unique way of doing this, so it’s about finding the right fit for you and your child. At Queen Ethelburga’s, we have an excellent pastoral team who run our THRIVE@QE programme, ensuring that our pupils’ mental health and resilience is a priority.

The team are available for students at any time of day or night.

There is also a dedicated area in the school where THRIVE activities take place and pupils can go to for support whenever it is needed. We also run an active “buddy” system between pupils, and have identified and trained peer mentors, who are very happy to chat to our younger pupils and offer their support while they are finding their way around school.

HELEN BARTLETT PHOTOGRAPHY

www.helenbartlett.co.uk | info@helenbartlett.co.uk | 0345 603 1373

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

53

CHOOSING A SCHOOL

I

magine a school that you could send your child to irrespective of age. A single school that fitted the ideal for both single-gender academic and mixed cocurricular provision, operating from a co-ed Nursery and Junior School, before splitting to Senior Schools for boys and girls, and coming back together in a joint Sixth Form?

This model of schooling is called “diamond” because of its shape and the structure. Although there are relatively few schools who truly operate as a diamond school, they are becoming increasingly popular and it is easy to see why.

The co-educational Nursery and Junior school years are when the foundations of education and social skills are laid, and when girls and boys first become exposed to learning to work and play together. It is a fundamental stage of a child’s emotional and academic development and wellbeing that will start to shape who they are and how they learn. Being part of a large group of schools allows the Junior pupils to benefit from the extensive facilities and teaching resources of the Senior Schools, along with regular exposure to the older pupils and great familiarity with the Senior School environment.

A major benefit of the diamond structure school is the seamless transition through the schools. Being part of one “family” generally means that children will move on to the Senior Schools in a much smoother, and anxiety-free way.

In many Junior Schools, Year Six can be disrupted with the need to prepare for entrance examinations. However, this is automatically removed in a diamond structure environment, leaving Year Six to be curriculum-rich, stress-free and happy.

In order to fully engage with girls and boys between the ages of 11-16 years, it is important to recognise that they both learn differently. Optimum learning and development can only be achieved by those teaching professionals who know what makes girls tick and what makes boys tick.

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WILL PHELAN

Principal, Stamford Endowed Schools, Lincolnshire

THE WHOLE PACKAGE What is a diamond school, and why should you send your child to one? Will Phelan, Principal of the Stamford Endowed Schools, outlines the plus-points Supporting this has an effect on pupils’ self-esteem and their academic results, but it’s difficult to strike this balance unless the school’s teachers are experts in supporting the needs of girls and boys independently.

Equally, girls and boys have different emotional needs in these delicate teenage years, and support structures that place importance on this are vital. These tend to be best addressed in an environment that specialises in one gender in particular, and this is the beauty of a diamond structure. It is only when children feel totally secure in their learning environments that they can

Above, a diamond school educates children from Nursery to Sixth Form

they flourish, whether it be on the sports field, in a drama production, as a musician or academically.

The Sixth Form is the final piece of the diamond structure where girls and boys come together for the final two years of study. Pupils share lessons, facilities, study time and lunches across the schools, which encourages a collegiate environment helping pupils to prepare for the next stage of their lives. Having this level of trust in the pupils nurtures responsibility and mutual respect for one another, which are valuable and important life-skills.

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SCHOLARSHIPS AND BURSARIES Emma Rutterford of Framlingham College, Suffolk explains how applying for financial help from schools can ease the burden of paying the fees

I

f you are looking to apply for a scholarship or bursary, the options can seem endless and overwhelming, and no two schools seem to be the same.

However, at the most basic level, it goes like this.

Scholarships are solely about the ability of the candidate and are awarded for exceptional talent or excellence in a given area (for example, academic, sport, music, art, drama). Bursaries are about financial need and will depend entirely on an individual and their family’s specific financial circumstances.

Value and meaning

Find out how much awards are worth (they can range from 10% to 100%) and whether you might be eligible for further financial assistance (if needed, it can be heartbreaking for your child to be awarded a scholarship, for you then to find that you cannot take up the place). Look into what happens with successful candidates when they are in school, i.e. is there a scholars’ programme and specific expectations of scholars? Think about what is most

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important to you and your child: is it the honour of being a scholar, the chance to develop in that particular area, or is it purely financial?

Speak to your current school. They will know what makes a successful scholar and whether your child has a chance to succeed; they have been through the process countless times and will give honest advice. It may be difficult to hear if they are not, but if this is the case, it will stop any unnecessary heartache.

Deadlines and shortlists Check with the Senior School about deadlines. Most schools will have application dates, forms and details of the assessment on their websites, but talk to them if at all unsure. Find out what needs to be submitted; is it just the application form, or do you need to collate other information? Putting together an application shouldn’t be an onerous task but make sure you have enough time to complete it. Schools will have many applications for relatively few awards and simply do not have the time to chase missing information.

Right, many schools offer music scholarships to talented children

FEES AND FINANCE

Make sure that your child writes their own application, and that is not to say that you cannot help with spelling and presentation!

Exams and interviews

Most schools will invite every applicant in for assessment, but do be aware that some will only invite a shortlist. Assessments vary greatly in format and length and will be in formal sessions, but be aware that down time is observed, too (seeing how your child interacts with others is important). Above all else, schools want candidates to enjoy the experience. It is a chance for children to show what they are about, how much they enjoy participating and for schools to get to know them better.

Bursaries

The good news is that there is financial assistance available – £398m was provided in means-tested fee assistance for pupils at ISC schools (Independent Schools Council Census 2018). However, there is huge demand for bursaries and criteria will vary.

Speak with the admissions department at the Senior School about what is involved.

You will be required to complete a Financial Circumstances (“means test”) Form and submit evidence, but be aware that some schools will also include a home visit. Transparency is key: if you know you can afford to pay x% of the fees, let the school know from the outset.

Applying for a scholarship or bursary should be straightforward. The key is to seek advice and make sure you and your child are aware of what is involved. Only apply if you think your child (and you!) can handle the disappointment.

The truth is there are more unsuccessful candidates than successful ones, so stress to your child the need to enjoy the experience and avoid placing too much emphasis on the outcome.

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EXPERT ADVICE

TALKING HEADS What can parents and teachers do to ensure children’s screen time is spent wisely?

Nick Tiley-Nunn

Shelley Lance

Norwich High School for Girls

Feltonfleet Preparatory

(Prep), Norfolk

School, Surrey

To develop effective digital citizenship in young people, technology must be embraced fully. Central to this is ensuring that they have the chance to engage with different examples of it and to explore them fully. Don’t just dip your toe into the pool; there is nothing worse than a child who has an iPad only to watch YouTube on it. Technology should be viewed as a toolkit, with children urged to develop skills in using these tools and identifying when they need to use them. Sometimes technology is not the most effective way of achieving a result and the sooner children can make these decisions for themselves the better.

Screen time varies depending on how and what it is being used for. From virtual learning platforms such as Firefly to working collaboratively online, there are endless ways that screen time is becoming integrated into our children’s and parents’ lives. However, the constant challenge is whether what their children are engaging with online is safe and of value. We always encourage pupils through the Digital Learning curriculum and their use of digital tools, to recognise what they are learning and why they might be choosing to communicate, connect and create using a form of digital media.

Left, pupils work collaboratively online in class at Feltonfleet School

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Below, children experiment with different types of tech at Norwich High Prep School

Simon Lockyer Royal Hospital School, Ipswich

We encourage pupils to use technology as consumers, as creators and as participators. The worst thing we can do is to deny children access to it. We try to establish a balance between control and offering alternative distractions to screen time. Ensuring that pupils have something that they enjoy at school, away from digital devices, a passion for whatever interests them, provides a very important counter that encourages children to engage with one another and develop friendships.

This helps them to learn how and when to use their devices, but also endorses the importance of social interaction so pupils know when to put them down.

Southbank International pupils can learn basic coding at school

Siobhan McGrath

Richard Merriman

Southbank International

Foremarke Hall, Repton Prep

School, London

School, Derbyshire

I wish parents who are trying to get their children to spend time online productively the best of luck! How about encouraging the use of Google Earth and Street View? Teachers know that there are a wealth of sites that support maths and reading and very few teachers I’ve met are averse to Minecraft. There are also many sites that cover basic coding for all ages. I have seen children busy for hours using Lego-based robotic kits where you use block based programming via an app. They could also learn how to build their own website. YouTube, too, is a great resource for kids to post their own tutorials.

Perversely with artificial intelligence and exponential digitalisation shaping the world, our children’s future will be determined by their human skills.

The ability to articulate opinions, think critically, be creative and work collaboratively within a team will be key.

Ensuring the curriculum and timetable give pupils the ability to develop ICT skills is paramount, but timetabling must also give equal importance to music, art, drama, PE and extra-curricular activities, which develop the human condition within our youngsters in preparation for the new world lying ahead of them.

Right and below, pupils at Foremarke Hall, Derbyshire, embrace their tech lessons

Left, pupils at Royal Hospital School, Suffolk enjoy using iPads in lessons

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

59

ADVERTORIAL

D

espite recently starting a family, renovating their Knightsbridge home and running their own businesses, Michael and Jonna are a fairly relaxed couple. They do, however, like to be organised in everything they do, and this includes deciding the future of their unborn child.

For Michael, he felt it was important to avoid the distraction of desperate school searches that he had seen his friends go through. For Jonna, it was more about avoiding the pressure and possible disappointment of trying to secure a place at a good school. So, the couple both decided they needed support in navigating through the maze of education.

“I’m half Austrian and half Singaporean, born in Taiwan and grew up in the US and Germany,” says Michael. “And Jonna is from Finland. So, with little understanding of the British private schooling system and busy lives, we wanted to find a company with the best experience, reputation and quality service who we could really trust.

A number of our friends had used Gabbitas Education before and recommended them, so they were always going to be on our shortlist.”

Forward planning

They interviewed three education consultants when Jonna was seven months pregnant, and chose Gabbitas Education after meeting Director of Elite Clients, Catherine Kelsey.

Jonna says, “It was obvious Catherine had so much experience and completely understood our requirements. I have a creative background, while Michael is more business focused, so it was a challenge to find the right solutions to match all our values. But Catherine did it – she was absolutely fantastic to work with; very proactive and really drove the process forward by taking the initiative, so we were always on the front foot.”

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ONE STEP AHEAD Many parents worry about finding the right school for their child, but with the help of Gabbitas Educational Consultants, you can be one step ahead of the rest Above, plan your child’s educational future with help from Gabbitas Educational Consultants

A wealth of experience

Catherine joined Gabbitas Education in 2002, has three children who attended prestigious independent schools and more than 20 years of experience working in the independent schools sector – making her highly respected within the industry.

She says, “Getting a place at the best school for your child is often stressful for parents. My advice is to start as early as possible, and Gabbitas Education can help make the journey easier. We have strong relationships with the best schools in the country and can support you in finding the right ones for your child.

Helping families whose child has not yet been born is becoming more popular, as there is increasing competition, especially

from abroad, to secure limited places in the most prestigious British schools.”

Who are Gabbitas Education?

Established in 1873, Gabbitas Education has many years of experience in providing guidance to families worldwide, including: advice on finding the best school for your child; exam preparation; further education and careers advice; private tutoring; and guardianship arrangements.

If you’re looking for help with finding the right school or support arrangements for your child, Gabbitas Education can help you every step of the way. Simply call 020 7734 0161, email info@gabbitas.com, or visit gabbitas.com

STAR STAFF

SCHOOL

HERO

I

have been the Head of Girls’ Games at Downsend School, a co-educational Prep School in Surrey for 10 years.

Here, my focus is to inspire girls to find a sport they enjoy and, most importantly, to take part and have fun.

While I was growing up, my passion was always swimming, and while I was never of the standard to compete at a county or national level, this never stopped me enjoying myself. In fact, I loved competing at the level that felt just right for me, and this is something I constantly try to instil into my pupils.

I always knew I wanted to be a PE teacher from a young age, and after completing my BEd at De Montfort University, I went straight into teaching. At Downsend, we offer a range of sporting opportunities for our female pupils, including netball, hockey, swimming and athletics. This summer, we will also be introducing cricket for girls, and I’m always looking for new opportunities to try different sports.

We regularly take the girls to see professionals such as Surrey Storm Netball team,

MARIE SEIVEWRIGHT This Head of girls’ games is so passionate about exercise that she is inspiring pupils of all sporting abilities

Tweet us @ISParent

and it’s through trips like this that I hope inspire the girls and show them what they, too, can achieve when they find a sport they enjoy – not just for their school days, but for their life beyond education.

We’ve had many sporting successes during my decade at Downsend; our current Head Girl has won the National IAPS Swimming

It’s important for me to show my pupils that I enjoy taking part in sporting events, e e tho h o t hie e first e

Championships for two successive years in the 50m freestyle. We have also come a close second several times in the National ESSA Primary Relays in Ponds Forge, and have reached the National Hockey and Netball Championship finals on numerous occasions.

In 2004, I was accepted as a volunteer for the Athens Olympics, after one of my pupils suggested I apply. With school holidays free from teaching, I then went on to volunteer at the London Olympics in 2012, the Glasgow Commonwealth Games in 2014 and the World Athletics Championships in London in summer 2017. I thoroughly

enjoyed each opportunity, particularly working in the Athlete Village and the Aquatics Centre in London 2012, where I got to meet Michael Phelps, which was a dream come true!

Last summer in the World Athletics Championships, I worked trackside at the warm-up track, which was a great chance to mentally note down how these elite athletes performed drills, some of which I have since used in my teaching at Downsend.

For the last three years, I have also raised money for Downsend’s nominated charity of the year, which is chosen by the pupils. Last year I ran my first (and last!) London marathon raising over £2,000 for Epilepsy Research UK. And this year, I participated in the Ride 100 cycle event and the Big Half Marathon in March, all for Downsend’s current charity of the year, which is The Royal Marsden.

I feel it’s important for me to show my pupils that I enjoy taking part in sporting events, even though I don’t achieve first place. One pupil asked me before I ran the London Marathon last year, “What if you win Miss Seivewright?”, and I replied that I wouldn’t, but that’s not why I’m running it. She seemed surprised and said, “But you’re always telling us to be positive and believe in ourselves.” And indeed, I am!

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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As well as an established core curriculum, the Prep School has developed an exciting creative curriculum and pupils enjoy specialist teaching in French, Spanish and Mandarin.

The Kingsley School is an all-through school with a close-knit community between Prep, Senior and Sixth Form students.

The school has a tra di tuition and opportuni tion of excellence in performing arts, da tin ties with the RSC co mplement the varied g back to the 1800 s. LAMDA programme of live performance,s.

A HISTORY OF THE KINGSLEY SCHOOL, WARWICKSHIREin10 pictures

Kingsley is always evolving. The Innovation Station, built in 2017, allows pupils to explore and have the opportunity to work with robotics, coding and Lego promoting STEAM opportunities from an early age.

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Rated“Excellent� in its most recent inspection, The Kingsley Prep School values the traditions of the past and embraces the best of modern education.

Kingsley School has enjoyed remarkable sporting success from Prep to Senior to Sixth Form, with team and individual sports celebrated and all pupils participating.

The school owes its existence to the determination and initiative of Rose Kingsley. Thanks to her vision, it was founded as an all-girls’ school, providing education for young women in Royal Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, since 1884.

Based in Royal Leamington Spa, Kingsley has connections with local charities and businesses, including Guide Dogs, Myton Hospice and intergenerational care home partnerships.

Kingsley recognises the importance of outdoor learning in a world where children’s experiences are limited. It promotes Forest School sessions, which take place within 15 acres of playing fields.

For 134 years, Kingsley has inspired pupils to be the best versions of themselves, resulting in confident and well-rounded young people who consistently reach their full potential, academically and otherwise.

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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1 Ottilie Robinson-Shaw, 16 Kayaker Ipswich High School, Norfolk

Ottilie has been a member of the GB Freestyle Kayaking Team for three years, and in 2017, she became British Champion, European Open and Welsh Open Champion and International Canoe Federation World Champion (U19) in San Juan, Argentina.

She is now training hard at the Lee Valley Olympic white water centre and Nottingham’s Holme Pierrepont, in preparation for the 2018 European Championship in Slovakia.

Away from the water, Ottilie was delighted to be awarded Tendring’s Junior Sports Personality of the Year in 2016, and was runner up in Essex’s Sports Personality of the Year in 2017. She has also been featured in the sports section of The Daily Telegraph, following her triumphant return from Argentina.

The young sports star credits her fantastic teachers and “awesome friends” at Ipswich High School for their amazing support throughout her sporting journey.

2 Izzy Petter, 17 Hockey player Cranleigh School, Surrey

Izzy was selected to represent the Team GB hockey squad for the fourth time in a game against the Dutch national team over Easter. The team faced the Netherlands U18 Girls in a series of fixtures, in which they placed second overall.

The young sports star has been playing at the Steve Bachelor Academy since the age of six, later joining Surbiton HC at 13, where she won numerous national titles.

The following year, Izzy was picked for U16 England hockey, and to date she has over 50 England junior caps.

She is now in her fourth season of England hockey, playing alongside GB internationals Georgie Twigg and Holly Webb as part of Surbiton’s first team. She enjoyed playing in another National Schools Final, lifting the silver trophy for Cranleigh in what was her last season representing the school.

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1 ONES TO

WATCH

We catch up with the stars of the independent school sector

2

STAR PUPILS

3 Annabelle Simmonds, 17

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

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

3

4 Freddie Wiltshire, 17

Degree apprentice with Rolls Royce Brighton College, East Sussex

5

4

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

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

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

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

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

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

An Island

GETAWAY With its serene tropical landscape and sheltered pristine beach, Antigua’s Carlisle Bay is worth the flight fare alone, writes Claudia Dudman

Carlisle Bay, Antigua backs on to lush green rainforest and a lagoon

I

t was with some trepidation that I left for a trip to Antigua in early November, since hurricanes Irma and Maria had recently inflicted their worst on much of the Caribbean. I’d been told that the island, although battered for two days, had escaped relatively lightly, but I still couldn’t get away from the images on the news that had beamed from my television, laying bare the devastation for all the world to see.

Barbuda, Antigua’s sister island, was completely flattened and its population had been rehoused there, initially in the Sir Vivian Richards cricket stadium, and then in temporary housing.

Hustle and bustle

But as soon as I touched down and made my way through the arrivals hall, my mood

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Share your thoughts on Twitter @ISParent

lifted and my conscience eased. The area was a hive of activity: hotel employees were jovially meeting guests; taxis and buses were loading up tourists and their suitcases, fresh off the carousel, and ferrying them off to their destinations.

The hustle and bustle of the place, I realised, meant that for the Antiguans, life, even with all that a fierce hurricane can throw at them, carries on. I had also forgotten how the West Indians are a people with such a convivial and relaxed disposition that you can’t help but be carried by it. It’s infectious.

Our hotel Carlisle Bay was situated on the south side of the island, roughly a half-hour drive from the airport. Eighty two contemporary suites housed in elegant pale grey sea-front villas, built in a wooden plantation-style, sit just a few feet away from the sparkling sea. These face the

etched outline of the mountainous island of Montserrat.

Simple is good enough

I loved the Caribbean simplicity of my room, with its white and turquoise colour scheme and locally-sourced carved wooden furniture. I had a Beach Terrace Suite with a sea-facing balcony, which consisted of a spacious and airy room with a king-size bed, small sofa and coffee table with a wall-mounted TV. There was also an accompanying bedroom, which could fit three single beds and an interlocking bathroom with a generous-sized shower, bath and his-andhers sinks.

For me, the real luxury of the suite was opening the doors on to the balcony first thing in the morning when no one else was awake, and padding over the white sand ▶

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SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

to the shoreline a mere 30 feet away.

Carlisle Bay first opened in 2003 and was adults only in its original incarnation.

Since 2015, John Rogers has been general manager in a career that has taken him and his charming wife, Isabel around the world, including opening Olga Polizzi’s Tresanton Hotel in Cornwall. The hotel has since developed into a luxury five-star family friendly destination.

John and Isabel kindly hosted our first evening in the hotel’s Asian restaurant East, which is one of the island’s best and only open in the evenings. Entering through two impressive Indonesian doors just off the reception area, we sat down to a menu peppered with Japanese, Indonesian and Thai cuisine. We started with a sushi menu, including tuna, salmon and fresh fish of the day. I followed with a main course, niftily named Salmon Chan Chan Yak, in effect pan-grilled salmon with arugula leaves,

Right, Carlisle Bay is situated on the south side of the island

“The luxury of the Beach Terrace Suite was opening the doors on to the balcony first thing in the morning and padding over the white sand to the shoreline.” grapes, shitake and teriyaki sauce. Just what was required after a long-haul flight.

Food, glorious food The bar at Indigo on the Beach

There are two other family-friendly eateries at the hotel: Indigo on the Beach, which is set in a large plantation-style open-sided building. I had breakfast here every morning and dined in the evening twice, enjoying grilled mahi mahi with sautéed potatoes, green pea puree, squash and black garlic, with an apricot ice cream for dessert. There was a comprehensive but varied menu for children, and it has a

Hobie cats and palm trees hug the shoreline

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relaxed vibe, where you can dine in shorts and t-shirt, barefoot, if you wish.

At Ottimo!, an Italian eaterie poolside, you can tuck into fresh oven-baked pizzas using the best Italian ingredients.

Unsurprisingly, it’s a hit with young children and teens alike.

Activities galore

You can have a complimentary trial of most of the sports and activities at Carlisle Bay, which is a great opportunity to try out things you might otherwise not. ▶ Catch a bird’s eye view of Antigua’s

Stunning sea views from Cornwall’s most comfortable hotel

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SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

Left, the pool at Carlisle Bay. Bottom, Nelson’s Dockyard

Antigua Fact File Antigua is one of the Leeward Islands in the Caribbean region in the West Indies.

Over 32,000 people live in the capital city, St John’s.

It is a former British colony, and its natives are big cricket fans.

Antigua’s sister island Barbuda sits 60kms to the north.

southern coastline on a tropical rainforest hike. This is a one-and-a-half-hour climb up through rainforest where our guide, Junior explained the local flora, fauna and towering trees to us (spider trees and stranglers among them). The recent hurricanes have made the environment and eco-system even more of a hot topic, and we all listened intently as we learned about the effect this had on the island.

The hotel has four tennis courts with professionals on-hand to help you master your game. We had an energetic tennis lesson with on-site pro Clifton, who enthusiastically insisted that we needed to play at least five times a week when we returned home – wishful

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thinking! If you love your yoga and pilates, you can practise early in the morning or at dusk on the jetty, which is at one end of the beach.

One of the highlights was the boat tour, which we took to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nelson’s Dockyard.

Located in Saint Paul parish, it’s named after Admiral Horatio Nelson who lived there from 1784 to 1787. A stroll through the Dockyard Museum gives you a good idea of the port’s vibrant and lively history.

We then gently sailed round more of the island, stopping for a picnic of delicious Jamaican meat pattis and salads, before a snorkel pitstop at Cades Reef. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.

Above, a sea view from a Carlisle Suite which has three bedrooms

For families in the Beach Terrace Suites prices start from $800 (approx. £610) per night, including breakfast and afternoon tea. To find out more, visit carlisle-bay.com

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Holiday fun for 2018 at Uppingham

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Music Courses for beginners and advanced musicians, classical, jazz and rock music Sport Tennis, hockey, netball, rugby and football camps Creative Arts Creative writing and art Performing Arts Drama, musical theatre and circus skills Technology and Science Sensational science, computer coding and Rasperry Pi

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Try white water rafting in Austria, mountain biking in Tuscany or snorkelling in Borneo. We have a range of holidays to suit all ages and abilities during Easter, half-term and summer!

Visit www.activitiesabroad.com or call 01670 785 072 to find out more

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ADVERTORIAL

GREEN THAILAND The Kingdom’s lush countryside and mountainous landscapes have just as much to offer a family holiday as its golden sandy beaches

T

he palm-fringed beaches and yearround sunshine of Thailand have long been visited by holidaymakers all over the world, but apart from the joys of squishing your toes into the warm sand, what else can families expect from a holiday to this popular Asian destination? Why not focus on its greener side on a conservation-based itinerary?

Youngsters, as we all know, like to be entertained, and taking them on a small group-guided tour where they are likely to meet friends of similar ages solves half the battle, easing the pressure on weary parents to come up with creative solutions.

Tradition vs modernity

Having welcomed holidaymakers for decades, Thailand is a great place for a family adventure, and one that readily combines tradition with modernity. Rather than flying directly to Bangkok, start off in the north, in the ancient city of Chiang

Above, you can visit local hill tribes in Chiang Mai

Mai. This cultural capital is a buzzing mix of market hubbub and spiritual serenity.

Visit the temple compound of Wat Prah Singh, the exquisite Wat Phan Tao and the elegant Wat Prasat, before ending up at the crumbling older Buddist temple of Chedi Luang. Children will love the decorative buildings – so architecturally different from those in the West.

Mountains and hill tribes Travelling out into the countryside and mountains surrounding Chiang Mai, you can engage with local hill tribes, even help out farmers with the harvest or perhaps try your hand at rice or vegetable planting.

You will be rewarded by helping to cook a delicious lunch using all the local fresh ingredients. Relax overnight in the verdant surroundings of a comfortable eco-lodge with a swimming pool and views to die for.

All Bangkok’s city sights and sounds can be addressed with a two-day visit taking in Chinatown on a walking tour, rides on the Skytrain and a tuk-tuk ride to Wat Saket, plus a boat trip to Wat Pho. Spend some

time taking a cycle tour, a treasure hunt or just splashing about in the hotel pool.

Head away again from the busy city to visit Tha Ka and a vibrant weekend floating market. Paddle out to watch vendors selling their wares before learning the local art of weaving coconut leaves to make toys.

Jungles and parks

Fear not, animal lovers – Kuibuiri National Park is a vast jungle on the Burmese border and is the largest habitat in Thailand for wild elephants. Witness these majestic animals in their own habitat, driving with a park ranger in search of elephants, gaurs, barking deer and the local birdlife.

This itinerary is suitable for children aged four and over, and is a superb option if you are after a Christmas sunshine break.

From £1,799 per adult and £1,699 per child for a 16-day holiday.

Accommodation, transfers, some meals, most activities and expert guides are included. To find out more, visit familiesworldwide.co.uk

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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Right, the expertise on hand at Ace Tennis Camps inspires junior players to improve their game

+ WIN A BREAK FAST SET-

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ur purpose is to give young people a fantastic summer to remember – to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for junior players to improve their tennis and language skills, have great fun and make friends from around the world.

Enthusiastic coaches

Ace Tennis specialises in junior tennis camps for young players, and our expertise and enthusiasm really inspires students to improve their game. Our head coaches all have lots of experience developing tennis players, helping them to gain skills to use on and off court.

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WIN!

A WEEK AT AN ACE TENNIS CAMP

Choice of superb venues

Our camp bases boast some of the best tennis facilities in the UK and Europe, and those high standards carry over to the food and accommodation. Our two prestigious London venues at the Royal Holloway Univerisity campus in Surrey and at Queenswood School in Hertfordshire are ideal settings to enjoy a great summer.

Fun and education

Our campers have a memorable, fun-filled week. In the encouraging and multicultural environment, there’s a great camaraderie and students mix and form friendships with people from around the world – it’s a great opportunity to practise those language skills and communicate with other children.

Above, technical skills and tactical knowledge are taught through a four-point programme

A trusted reputation

Ace was founded nine years ago and has established itself as one of the leading tennis camp providers for young tennis players in Europe. Our reviews show how both parents and students are delighted with the experience we offer.

Top quality tennis coaching and expertise

Whether students aspire to play professionally, earn a sports scholarship or simply want to improve their game at any level, Ace Tennis Camps’ coaching programme will help them progress on their tennis journey.

This programme is based around four essential areas that we aim to encourage and develop:

COMPETITION

Below, your child will make lots of friends from different backgrounds Right, your child will learn to participate in teamwork and hone their concentration

1. TECHNICAL SKILLS Playing the key shots of the game - both attack and defense – in a variety of situations.

2. MENTAL STRENGTH Tennis is an individual sport with challenging match situations that require mental skills such as problem solving, staying positive and remaining focused.

3. TACTICAL KNOWLEDGE How to select the right approach to each individual situation on court.

Recognising various playing styles of the opponents, the court and conditions.

4. PHYSICAL CONDITIONING Making sure the physical ability of the player is appropriate to their level.

Match play

We practise “Game based coaching”,

Above, Royal Holloway, Surrey, is one of the venues for Ace Tennis Camps

where everything is linked back to match situations. Students of all abilities learn much through match play so there’s a dedicated time for playing matches every day, including tournament conditions.

Learning wider skills

Tennis is a good sport for teaching endurance and focus as well as how to have fun! It teaches young people how to: Set effective goals Prepare well mentally Participate successfully in teamwork

it

o

hi

HOW TO ENTER To be in with a chance of winning a week at an Ace Tennis Camp, answer the question below by 17th June 2018 and enter it on the following link: independentschoolparent.com/win Q: How many years ago was Ace Tennis Camps established?

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The coaching team is handpicked to provide the best tennis camp experience and expert coaches provide the required attention to each individual’s needs.

Terms and Conditions: one week residential or non-residential at a 2018 Ace Tennis Camp venue. No monetary value equivalent will be provided. The prize is non-exchangable and does not include additional excursions or add-ons. For more information about Ace Tennis Camps, visit acetennis.co.uk

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

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Queen Ethelburga’s College

Thorpe Underwood Hall, Ouseburn, York YO26 9SS T: 01423 333330 E: admissions@qe.org W: qe.org Head Teacher: Steven Jandrell Admissions: Susan McKee

Key facts

Worcester, WR6 6DD T: 01299 896275 Worcester, WR6 6DD abberleyhall.co.uk T: 01299 896275 abberleyhall.co.uk Worcester, WR6 6DD T: 01299 896275 abberleyhall.co.uk

Where learning Where learning goes hand in hand Where learning goes hand in hand with discovery goes hand in hand with discovery with discovery Co-education Boarding & Day Prep School for 2-13 year olds, based in 90 acres of Worcestershire Co-education Boarding & Dayfrom PrepLondon, School for countryside.

Two hours 2-13 year olds, in 90 and acres of Worcestershire an hour from thebased Cotswolds Birmingham Airport. countryside.

Two hours Co-education Boarding & Dayfrom PrepLondon, School for an hour from the Cotswolds and Birmingham Airport.

2-13 year olds, based in 90 acres of Worcestershire countryside. Two hours from London, an hour from the Cotswolds and Birmingham Airport.

Gender / Ages: boys and girls, 3 months-19 years Total pupils: 1604, boys 816, girls 788 Type: Day, Full Boarding Fees: Nursery – Day from £1,895. Prep – Day from £2,795, Full Boarding from £9,972. Senior – Day from £5,125, Full Boarding from £11,88 per term

School Philosophy: To be the best that I can with the gifts that I have.

Open Days: 9th June 2018

Hawkesdown House School

For Boys & Girls aged 3 to 11 years OP EN M ORNI NGS Sat 22 Sept 9.30 -11.30 Visit our beautiful 25-acre day and flexi-boarding school, where boys and girls aged 3-13 thrive on personalised learning.

27 Edge Street, Kensington, London W8 7PN Telephone: 0207 727 9090 Email: admin@hawkesdown.co.uk www.hawkesdown.co.uk

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independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

Fri 8 March 9-11.00 Fri 3 May

9-11.00

Contact Jackie Williams on 01932 862 264, at admissions@feltonfleet.co.uk or visit www.feltonfleet.co.uk Means-tested bursaries are available.

COBHAM SURREY KT11 1DR

W H E R E I N D I V I D U A L S R E A L LY M AT T E R

CALENDAR

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

UNTIL 28 Oct

26-9

May-Sept

Dippy goes on tour

A SPLASH OF COLOUR

[Birmingham]

[London] If you’re curious about how colours are made, you’re sure to find this awardwinning exhibit quite dazzling. Colour: The Rainbow Revealed at the Horniman Museum and Gardens reveals how animals use colour to attract and camouflage, and what different colours mean to different people. There’s also an art machine to check out, too, where you can create your own masterpiece. Child £4, adult £7. horniman.ac.uk

If you’re missing Dippy the Diplodocus in London’s Natural History Museum, you’ll be delighted to hear that this 292-piece skeleton is now going on tour. Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery has the honour of hosting Dippy until September, and he'll take centre stage alongside a velociraptor cast, a cast of a dinosaur nest and a real great auk. There’s also opportunities to try your hand at palaeontology with a thrilling Dino Dig, plus crafts activities and trails. Free to enter. birminghammuseums.org.uk ONE FOR FOSSIL FANS

UNTIL

PHOTOGRAPHY: GARETH JONES/BENJAMIN EALOVEGA

Mar 2019

30-3

May-June

CREATE SOME MUSICAL MAGIC

OUTDOOR ESCAPADES

[London] You’ve heard of the London Philharmonic Orchestra – now say hello to London’s FUNharmonics Family Concert, a spectacular musical performance speciallydesigned for children. See the glittering world of Igor Stravinsky’s Pretrushka magically brought to life with quarrelling puppets and stunning projected animations, plus a beautiful ballerina and an enigmatic magician. Tickets from £12. southbankcentre.co.uk

[Brighton] The summer is always best spent outside, so get a dose of drama while soaking up some rays in this thrilling open-air production of The Adventures of Robin Hood. Expect thigh-slapping tunes, daring escapades and high-spirited action as you watch this famous hero rise up and battle against the wicked tax-collecting Sheriff of Nottingham. Child £10, adult £12. brightonopenairtheatre.co.uk

[Charmouth, Devon] A unique fossil that inspired recent BBC documentary Attenborough and the Sea Dragon will now be on display for a whole year at the Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre. The four-metre-long ichthyosaur was initially discovered by local collector Chris Morris, and had been so well preserved underneath a bed of limestone that even its skin was visible! Free to enter. charmouth.org

UNTIL Jan 2019

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

77

s

Did you know?

Most polar bear cubs don't venture outside the den until they are four months old

[Kingussie, Scotland] Intrigued to see the first polar bear cub to be born in the UK for 25 years? Head over to the RZSS Highland Wildlife Park, where the enclosure of female polar bear Victoria and her baby cub has reopened for the first time since Christmas. Visitors can also catch sightings of beautiful native wildlife, such as the Scottish wildcat, alongside all kinds of endangered animals from the world’s mountains and tundra, including tigers, camels, pandas and reindeer.

Child from £9.95, adult from £15.90. highlandwildlifepark.org.uk

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May-Dec

FLORAL FUN [Merseyside] The theme of this year's Southport Flower Show is “Once Upon a Time”, and designers and landscapers have been working their socks off to produce the most imaginative gardens to impress members of the public.

There’ll also be talks from gardening experts Charlie Dimmock and Carol Klein. Tickets from £18.50. southportflowershow.co.uk

5-6 Aug

GET ON YOUR BIKE!

MARVEL AT SOME MATHS MAGIC

IN THE LOOP

[Yorkshire] Pedal down to The Swale Trail, a brand-new cycle track designed for families and aspiring mountain bikers. Based within the Yorkshire Dales National Park, the 12-mile-long trail is divided into three easy-to-navigate sections.

Don’t have a bike? The new track is designed to be used by all, from horse riders to keen walkers! yorkshiredales.org.uk

[London] Maths has shaped our world in more ways than we could ever imagine, and this new exhibit demonstrates that it isn’t just scientists and mathematicians who need to be sharp with numbers. Mathematics: The Winton Gallery reveals just how maths connects to every aspect of our lives, whether you’re a sailor, engineer, banker, gambler, salesperson or designer.

Free to enter. sciencemuseum.org.uk

[Brighton] The Loop at Sea Life Brighton is encouraging every visitor who purchases a bottled drink from the aquarium to recycle. Visitors simply need to post their bottle into the machine, watch it zip away into a secret inner bottle bank, then collect a pop-badge made from earlier recycled bottles. Tickets from £16.50. visitsealife.com

independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

PHOTOGRAPHY: RSZZ/ JODY KINGZETT

Catch sight of a polar bear cub

26-2

Inspiring intellectually brave, morally sound and confident young people

Visit www.altonschool.co.uk to register

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

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

Tel. 01420 82070

Independent Day School for girls 4-16 years

DEVONSHIRE HOUSE SCHOOL 2 Arkwright Road, Hampstead, NW3 6AE

A co-educational IAPS Prep and Pre-Prep School for children from 3 to 13 with its own Oak Tree Nursery for children from 2½ to 3½ OPEN MORNINGS Wednesday 10th October 2018 Thursday 11th October 2018 For more information contact Admissions: 020 7435 1916 enquiries@devonshirehouseprepschool.co.uk www.devonshirehouseschool.co.uk

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

Day Nursery & Pre-School for girls & boys from 6 months

Every step of the way...

Nursery

Prep

Senior

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

Abbot’s Hill is a happy and thriving community in which pupils are encouraged to aim high, to grasp opportunities, enjoy learning and make lasting friendships.

Bunkers Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP3 8RP 01442 240333 | registrar@abbotshill.herts.sch.uk | www.abbotshill.herts.sch.uk

For a prospectus or to arrange a visit, please contact the Registrar, Miss Isabel Carey: registrar@queensgate.org.uk · 020 7594 4982 queensgate.org.uk/admissions/juniorschool Queen’s Gate Junior School, 125–126 Queen’s Gate, London SW7 5LJ

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

79

“I like Polam because it is like a second home where I can be who I really am”

UK Residential Summer Camps adventure, Sport, Creative 8-15 year olds

– Year 4 pupil

INDOOR SWIMMING POOL OUTSTANDING NURSERY

CREATIVE CURRICULUM SPECIALIST MUSIC, LANGUAGES AND PE

Call 01234 261864 to book a Private Tour or see www.polamschool.co.uk for Open Days.

£595 per week

North Camp Aysgarth School:

8th July - 4th August

South Camp FSM School:

29th July - 11th August Telephone: 01234 261864 admissions@polamschool.co.uk 43-45 Lansdowne Road, Bedford MK40 2BU

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independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

www.learnexperience.co.uk - info@learnexperience.co.uk - 01756 521000

Did you know?

Your £200 in sponsorship could pay for 50 children to get the help and support they need

Let’s get messy [Surrey & West Midlands]

Engage in some messy fun this summer at the NSPCC’s Messathon, based in Frimley Lodge Park, Surrey (9th-10th June) and Sandwell Valley Park (21st22nd July). Get a team together, collect sponsorship and prepare to make some muddy memories as you scramble over hay bales, crawl through ball pits and swoosh along water slides – all while raising money for a good cause. Each child who takes part will receive a medal, and everyone (including adults) will get a free t-shirt, not to mention a great day out! The NSPCC asks that each team (max. six people) aims for a sponsorship target of £200.

Child £9.50, adults £15.50. nspcc.org.uk

26-2 May-Dec

RISE OF THE ROBOTS

9-22 Jun-Jul

[Newcastle] Robots – then and now at Newcastle’s Life Science Centre champions the wonderful world of automated machines – from the mechanical automatons of the 16th century, to the latest humanoids of the present day.

With the chance to interact with “live” machines and explore a static collection of famous robots, the exhibition is designed to make you ask: are humanoids an incredible achievement in robotics, or just plain creepy?

Child £7.50, adult £13. life.org.uk

UNTIL 7 July

23-31

2-2 July-Sept THAT’S CRACKING, GROMIT!

COMICS ARE COOL

CAN YOU CRACK THE CASE?

[Bristol] Everyone’s favourite Claymation canine will be returning to Bristol this summer to star in a new arts trail, and this time he’s bringing a few friends with him! Families simply need to purchase a trail map to hunt down the 60 sculptures, the proceeds of which will be donated to Bristol’s Children’s Hospital. gromitunleashed.org.uk

[Newcastle] Can’t get enough of comic books? This brand-new Comics exhibition at Seven Stories, the national centre for children’s books, gathers together an eclectic mix of original comic art to inspire all comic book fans. Several British comic creators have also prepared sketches, storyboards and 3D models, revealing the creative processes of creating a comic. Child £6.60, adult £7.70. sevenstories.org.uk

[London] It's the summer of 1836, and the Bank of England have received a letter claiming that there's a drain in London that leads straight to the bank's precious gold vaults. But is it true? Follow the clues, uncover the mystery and claim your reward at the Bank of England Museum's Gold Rush! Free to enter. bankofengland.co.uk/museum

SUMMER 2018 | independentschoolparent.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: TOM HULL

Jul-Aug

81

MEMORY LANE

SCH

MEMOOOL RIES

How did you get on with the

go to boarding

other pupils?

school?

The school was fully co-educational and I also loved being in the company of girls – I would have hated all that macho nonsense if I’d been sent to an all-boys’ boarding school.

I have never been academically gifted and I struggled through my Common Entrance exams, only to find that I had failed to get into any London day schools. Eventually, my family and I decided that Bryanston School in Dorset would be best for me.

Why Bryanston?

No one in my family had ever gone away to boarding school before, but my parents liked the laid-back and liberal atmosphere that they saw when they visited the school on an open day.

What did you want to do as a profession?

I left school with aspirations of becoming an actor.

BEN

Were you shy or outgoing?

In marked contrast to my outgoing “explorer” broadcasting career today, I was a very shy child. I used to hide behind my parents’ legs at social functions, and at my Prep School, the Hall in Hampstead, north London, I lacked confidence and was a bit of a goody two-shoes.

What was it like to leave home for the first time?

I became terribly homesick, and my shyness and insecurity were overwhelming. I can still remember the car journey as my mother drove me to school and the feeling of impending doom. We weren’t allowed to call home for the first few weeks and when I finally did, I remember standing in a little telephone booth, having queued up for what felt like hours, and when I eventually spoke to Mum, I burst into floods of tears!

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independentschoolparent.com | SUMMER 2018

What was it about being at Bryanston that you loved?

FOGLE

The broadcaster and writer overcame his homesickness to enjoy blissful summer terms at Bryanston School in Dorset How did you get over your homesickness?

As the school year went by, I slowly began to settle into my new life away from home.

I started to make friends and, more importantly, began to discover the real me. My shyness began to fade, as did my homesickness. Until then, I had lacked any real confidence in myself, but Bryanston began to heal all that. Slowly but surely, the real me began to emerge.

What was the academic side of life like?

I still struggled. However, I was able to find outlets for my creativity. Bryanston worked quite hard to find out

what I was good at, which turned out to be art and drama. We were allowed to create our own timetable and amazingly, we actually did some work! I also set up a “Riding for the Disabled” group while I was there.

Share your school memories @ISParent

The remoteness of it. We were in the middle of rural Dorset surrounded by fields and rivers. If I close my eyes and think of a perfect summer’s day, I think of my summer terms, of walking along the banks of the River Stour and jumping in the clear waters to cool off.

Any fun moments?

There were plenty! I remember when new signs were put up along the drive with peel-off letters and some pranksters changed them to make very rude words before a new parents’ day.

What happened after you left school?

So, you thrived in more creative subjects...?

Yes – I loved drama and spent a great deal of time rehearsing forthcoming plays and then performing them in the school theatre. I also spent many hours in the craft, design and technology building, making stuff. I made friends from all over the world at school and many of them remain great friends to this day.

I very nearly didn’t pass my A-Levels and failed to get into my first-choice universities and drama school. It was a bit like groundhog day. But then, that wasn’t the point, because I’d finally come out of my shell.

I don’t think I would be doing what I do now had I not gone to boarding school. It gives you the confidence to be who you want to be, and I am very grateful for the experience.

PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES

W

hy did you

What makes us stand out?

The location

The deep-rooted sense of family

•

•

85 acres of stunning grounds in the Suffolk

Diverse mix of pupils with everyone

countryside with a breathtaking view of the iconic ‘Castle on the Hill’.

•

contributing to the Framlingham community.

•

Strong emphasis on personal development

Inspiring environment that allows pupils to

honing skills such as resilience and

grow up at their own pace.

determination.

•

Vast array of opportunities for everyone to find their passion.

•

A range of Scholarships available including Academic, Performing / Creative Arts and Sport with bespoke pathways to excellence.

Flexible boarding •

Wrap-around care for busy parents with flexible boarding from age 7.

FRAMLINGHAM COLLEGE ∙ FRAMLINGHAM ∙ SUFFOLK ∙ UK ∙ IP13 9EY +44 ( 0) 1728 723789 ∙ admissions@framcollege.co.uk

FRAMCOLLEGE.CO.UK