THE
HUB C O M M E M O R AT I V E B O O K 2 0 1 9
Walter Lippmann
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
VISION
“When all think alike, then no-one is thinking”
A VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION When tasked with devising an educational model that would prepare pupils for the exciting but daunting future that awaited them, I was determined to ‘think big.’ Little did the governors of Talbot Heath realise how much I would enjoy such a challenge. My career in education has revolved around innovation and inspiring young people through their learning. My task was to align curriculum, facilities and staffing in such a way as to revolutionise traditional thinking about lesson content and delivery. Having studied pedagogical practice around the globe and considered the words of business leaders and educationalists, I concluded that the pupils would need to be creative in every field, demonstrating the ability to problem solve, think on their feet, adapt, draw strands of knowledge together, work both independently and collaboratively and be able to consider both ‘ the bigger picture’ while having an eye for detail. Their competencies would need to encompass digital proficiency as well as fine motor skills. Their foundation of knowledge would need to have both breadth and depth. They would have to understand the nature of the future world they would inhabit, the challenges facing it and the technological developments that would shape it.
In order for pupils to learn differently and emerge ready to embrace a world changing at a startling pace, this change of approach would have to be embedded from the earliest age. Consequently, our ground-breaking curriculum and educational approach runs from the age of three to the age of eighteen. Our state of the art facilities have been designed to support inspirational teaching and learning from Key Stage One to Key Stage 5 and beyond. I was determined that the education provided at Talbot Heath would spark the imaginations of pupils, inspiring them to think innovatively and to embrace and foster change. I am delighted that, after three years of hard work, we have realised our vision through the commitment and expertise of a team of staff and governors who have not been afraid to ‘think big.’ Talbot Heath is proud, once again, to be blazing a trail for others to follow. The future is already here.
Angharad Holloway Head
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
It will not be sufficient for pupils to leave school with excellent examination results but few of the skills that the Confederation of British Industry has identified as being critical for future generations. The current educational model in the UK is no longer fit for purpose, Talbot Heath’s vision is for a curriculum that suits the needs of students and industry and encourages invention and creative thought. Our vision focuses on interdisciplinary learning which is powered by STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics). It gives young people the skills and confidence to explore and test their ideas, to think big, become problem solvers who are adaptable to any working environment and better prepared for the jobs of the future. Students have access to Virtual Reality, immersive projection, holographic studios, 3D printing, Computer Aided Design, robotics, animation tools and green screen facilities. They will have industry standard equipment and the highest technological resources, reflecting the tools that they will use in Higher Education and industry.
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
TEAM
It has never been more important for education to offer young people the knowldege and skills that will prepare them for the future - a future of artificial intelligence, nanotechnology and global solutions to global problems.
“Angharad is a visionary, what she is trying to do is absolutely amazing for industry, she is helping to build the next generation of talent in the local area.” Sophia Story, Chief Changemaker at award winning app development company 3 Sided Cube
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
The process of making the STEAM Hub a reality began back in 2016. The Talbot Heath team worked closely with architects from Western Design to turn Angharad Holloway’s vision for this innovative building into reality. The brief was to create an inspiring and flexible building that would meet the needs of interdisciplinary working. A double height auditorium was created, capable of seating the whole school, which could be sectioned into three disctinct spaces for teaching. Throughout the building, open plan break out spaces have been included to create study and social spaces Architect Jess Wells, a former Talbot Heath student, was part of the Western Design team who came up with these original drawings and created the plan. TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
“The role of the teacher is to create the conditions for invention rather than provide ready-made knowledge”
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
IMPACT
Since our foundation in 1886, our commitment has been to provide a first class education and to prepare our pupils to be contributing, valued members of society and the communities of their future. Whilst the principle is still as relevant today as it was in 1886, the content of the curriculum has adapted to meet the needs of our pupils. Never has this been more apparent than now. Our society is evolving at an ever increasing rate and the rise of technology and the future A.I. may bring, opens up so many possibilities and challenges for us as global citizens. Therefore, at TH, we have been thinking big and beyond, looking at what a curriculum fit for the future needs to encompass. We are thrilled and very excited to be launching, from the age of three, S.T.E.A.M. and design thinking lessons for all our pupils. Instead of teaching each subject in isolation, we are delivering a new curriculum that will encourage and assist pupils to draw on their knowledge from across all disciplines. The focus will be less on a uniform outcome, but to concentrate on the learning, discovery and skills involved in the process of solving problems or examining relevant issues. Our interdisciplinary lessons are stimulating, engaging, challenging and meaningful. Emphasis is not only on content, but also importantly on how the learning is taking place. Pupils will be taught the skills and awareness necessary to best facilitate their own learning. Pupils will appreciate that creativity, imagination, cooperation, communication, determination are crucial when finding solutions, and that these attributes are what make us different and unique from the capabilities of A.I. and robots.
An example of this is the project about Goldilocks, delivered to Reception. Pupils consider not only the story and ethics surrounding Goldilocks, but are then challenged to design and build an unbreakable chair. They will be able to lead their learning, work at their own pace, discuss scenarios and solutions with their peers and teachers and harness the power of new technologies. They can plan then draw their designs, plot them digitally using CAD, then create a 3d version in the virtual world in order to effectively examine, test and redesign as necessary. Expert teaching staff will draw out the scientific, technical engineering, mathematical and artistic elements of the task and then evaluate the skills and attributes that were needed to complete the challenge successfully. Other projects planned throughout the school from Y1-9 include, building Roman trebuchets, making gunpowder, redesigning steam engines and launching an invasion! These all encompass skills and knowledge from across the curriculum including subjects, as diverse as Latin, Music and Chemistry. Pupils from across all ages will have access to age appropriate teaching on Architecture, Scientific Literacy, Spatial Awareness, Earth Science, Material Science and Geo-politics. Talbot Heath is wholly committed and ready to continue delivering a first class education for the future.
Elizabeth Pugh Junior School Head
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
It gives them greater control of their learning - the ability to create their own virtual reality and holographic content and project their ideas around the building - all from their iPad. This facility will put Bournemouth on the map in terms of skills development and investment in the priority growth areas of Engineering, Manufacturing and the Creative Industries. The replacement of the outdoor pool with a top class covered pool facility has enabled the school to create a competitive Swimming Academy in association with Poole Swimming Club. The Talbot Heath Swimming Academy strives to be the Number 1 performing School Swimming Programme in England, measured by results at IAPS (Incorporated Association of Preparatory Schools) and ESSA (English School Swimming Association) competitions. The Academy will provide a successful pathway for pupils to reach the highest levels of domestic and international Junior competition, preparing for future success in leading Senior Elite swimming programmes. All Talbot Heath Pupils will be able to access the coaching expertise of Poole Swimming Club through our extensive extra-curricular programme. The access to full boarding facilities means the school is attracting elite swimmers from across the UK and beyond, to train and learn in Bournemouth.
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
MAGINE
The STEAM Hub gives our students the opportunity to imagine, build, test and display their most imaginative ideas and designs. It takes them out of the formal classroom and into flexible and inspiring learning spaces that allow them to move across disciplines with ease.
“What education needs is people that think more broadly and are able to innovate. What Angharad is proposing is a very good means to deliver that” Anthony Story Director, Silicon South
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
It is exciting that we are learning to think and learn in a way that will give us a real edge in our future careers
HE
L6 Pupil
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
ourney
Preparation of the site began in December 2017 with the demolition of the CAT block, a modular building constructed in 1978 that housed computing and technology subjects. The outdoor pool and changing rooms, built in the early 1970s, were removed to make way for a new covered pool facility and plant. The construction work then began in February 2018 with excavation and preparation for the framework of the new three storey building and covered pool. The framework consisted of 202 tonnes of steels, and was put together in just 12 days - an average of 24 steels being fixed per day.
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
In June 2018 Angharad fixed the final ‘golden’ bolt into the structure, marking the completion of the steel framework . Founding Sponsors Volvo Cars Poole and Just Shutters attended the Golden Bolt ceremony, along with representatives from Acheson Construction and Ridge. Following the securing of the Golden Bolt, Angharad Holloway was lifted 60 metres in a cherry picker to view the entire site.
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
The concrete floors and stairwells were then poured into the steel framework and the interior of the building began to take shape. The sheer expanse of the 600 seat auditorium could finally be experienced, and the new performance facilities - complete with dressing rooms and balcony and back stage area, were realised. As a result of the new facility and innovative curriculum approach, Talbot Heath was named as one of the most innovative and influential independent schools in the country.
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
The auditorium will allow the whole school to come together for events and performances with 600 seats across the main auditorium and the two balcony spaces. The stage and backstage areas will support full scale productions and will be available for community hire. The auditorium space can then be split into three distinct learning spaces, one of which will be set up for immersive projection space and holographic space. The retractable walls are soundproofed and fold into the walls when not in use. Seating is a combination of retractable and free-standing that can be stored when not required and set up in varying formations to meet all needs.
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
Solar panels were installed on the roof of the newly-covered pool to feed the supply of electricity for both the STEAM Hub and the sports hall. The fixtures and fittings are installed into the art, design, drama and textiles studios - including green screen facility and fixed machinery and tooling for design. In March 2019 staff, students and alumnae supported a fundraising campaign to purchase equipment for the Design suite. Over 300 students engraved their names on Surge, a sculpture inspired by fluid and aerodynamics and designed by sculptor Rebecca Newnham, to reflect the essence of the new curriculum.
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
“Seeing our house designs come to life through virtual reality was incredible” U3 class
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
The furniture has been chosen to compliment the flexibility of the building, to inspire students and to encourage collaborative working. West Country Design worked closely with Talbot Heath to design each area, from the cafĂŠ area with its high benches overlooking the covered pool, through to the break out pods on the first and second floor. Stackable seats were installed that can be joined and built up to suit different group numbers. The furnishings throughout the building reflect the intrinsic relationship between mathematics and design.
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
The installation of a covered pool and new plant will transform swimming at Talbot Heath. In collaboration with Poole Swimming Club, the school has opened an elite Swimming Academy, enabling swimmers from across the UK and beyond to continue their high level of training whilst continuing their education to a high standard. All students will have swimming lessons as part of their PE timetable. Poole Swimming Club will also train its own competitive teams in the new facility, and private lessons will be provided by external providers VK Swim and Individuality Swimming.
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
Practical completion of the building was achieved in August 2019. The design technology suite is fully kitted out with laser cutters, lathes, saws, drills, 3D printers and a CAD suite. The area has an air filtration and venting system and work benches are adjustable to suit all ages. Projection screens and film are fitted to the main windows to allow internal and external projection of artwork and branding. Immersive projection and hologram equipment are installed in the auditorium, along with full lighting rig and audio visual suite. The cafĂŠ facility, overlooking the pool, is equipped with an espresso machine offering a full barista service to Sixth Formers, staff and visitors.
"I think STEAM lessons are amazing. STEAM is fun because you make things, and interesting because you learn about the different parts you make.� Year 2 student
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
Three years ago, we, as Governors of the Talbot Heath School Trust, asked Mrs Holloway to present her strategic plan of how she envisaged the development of the education at the School in the next ten years. Little did we realise what a revolution in education would be proposed when her STEAM Vision was revealed. With some tired and failing buildings, the need for a new building to enable this vision to be fulfilled was more than apparent but visions are one thing, bringing them to fruition is quite another and it has been achieved by endless work by the Senior Leadership Team, Governors, and professional advisors to whom the Trust will be eternally grateful. We have been supported from the outset by many local companies and those delivering higher education who could immediately see the benefit this inter-disciplinary curriculum would bring. Furthermore, with their involvement in certain aspects of that curriculum, the girls will develop integrated skills that otherwise would not be possible from the traditional textbook-style learning process. To have girls as young as three learning design technology and applying that knowledge and reasoned thinking throughout their lives, can only be beneficial in the world in which they are growing up.
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
UTUR
A PLAN CONCEIVED AND DELIVERED.
These new facilities will allow us to create interactive workshops, lectures and lessons, similar to those delivered in higher educational and business, and this will work alongside the traditional classroom-based learning. We have already developed links with BU relating to Computer Animation and Film Editing, Design Thinking and Material Science at AUB, Robotics at Bristol University, International Design projects with MIT and Artificial Intelligence at Southampton University. Where Talbot Heath leads‌ others will follow.
Christine Norman Chair of Governors.
“Talbot Heath School would not be in such a strong position without the continued support and goodwill of our many friends” Miss Austin-Smith, former Head
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
A special thank you to our Founding Sponsors for their commitment to our vision for education Thank you to our school community Our heartfelt thanks to each and every member of our school community, including our alumnae, who have supported us to achieve this vision for our school. Your commitment to the education of your children, and your belief in us as a school, is overwhelming. Thank you to the professional team responsible for the design and construction of the STEAM Hub and to everyone whose advice and expertise has enabled us to make this vision a reality.
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
Thank you to our friends, partners and supporters
Talbot Heath
Parent Staff Society
The Edwards Family
The Melling Family
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
Thank you to our incredible patrons who are helping us raise awareness of our vision for education
Roma Agrawal is a structural engineer who builds big. From skyscrapers – including The Shard – to footbridges, and train stations to sculptures, she has made a lasting contribution to London’s landscape.
Natalie Clein is a Brtitish cellist with a distinguished career, regularly performing at major venues and with orchestras worldwide.
Louisa Clein, TH Alumna, who has gone on to have a very successful acting career, most recently she portrayed the role of Maya Stepney in the ITV soap opera Emmerdale
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
Dr Col. Heidi Doughty OBE, TH Alumna, is a Consultant in Transfusion Medicine for NHS Blood and Transplant with honorary appointments with the University of Birmingham and the University Hospitals.
Philippa Glanville OBE, TH Alumna, is an English art historian, an authority on silver and the history of dining and the former curator of the metal, silver and jewellery department of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Dame Professor Wendy Hall, DBE, FRS, FREng is Regius Professor of Computer Science at the University of Southampton, UK, and is an Executive Director of the Web Science Institute.
Emily Harris, TH Alumna, is the Director of Drama at Sydenham School for Girls who has a passion for increasing creativity in the curriculum.
Sheila Innes, TH Alumna, is a broadcaster and media educator, and a former BBC Controller of Educational Broadcasting.
Dr Anjana Khatwa is a radio tv presenter, as well as an academic, she oversees the Jurrasic Coast project.
Dr Fiona Marshall, TH Alumna, is VP Head of the UK Discovery Centre for MSD Reseach Laboratories. She has spent her career in the discovery of drugs for a range of different diseases.
Henrietta Morrison, TH Alumna, is the Founder and CEO of Lily’s Kitchen. She has won numerous awards, including a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Innovation.
Rebecca Newnham MA (RCA) FRBS is a sculptor and designer, her current work illustrates scientific ideas such as waves of energy and sound. She designed and created the sculpture 'Surge' which now stands alongside the STEAM Hub.
Dr Jan Peters MBE has a passion for engaging young people and the public in STEM and founded Katalytik in 2004, a consultancy to make change happen in education.
Rosalind Preston OBE, TH Alumna, is dedicated to the rights and status of women nationally and internationally - equal employment rights, the care of the elderly and inter faith relations.
Kate Royal, TH Alumna, is an internationally acclaimed soprano. She studied at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and the National Opera Studio.
Jessamy Wells, TH Alumna, is an Associate at Western Design Architects, she was part of the architectural team that created the design for the STEAM Hub.
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
Looking to the future The next step in realising our vision is to make a wider impact on education across the UK and beyond. We are working with Bournemouth University and UCL to develop models of our curriculum that can be implemented into state schools nationally and internationally.
“The glory of life is to love, not to be loved; to give, not to get; to serve, not to be served� Mary Broad Founder of Talbot Heath School
We want to give every child in the UK access to this transformative way of learning, starting through tailored outreach to our local community with partner schools and organisations, and working with national partners to extend the impact of this innovative approach. We have received attention nationally, and have been named as one of the most innovative and influential Indpenendent Schools in the UK. We now aim to take our project forward, and put our educational model firmly on the map. To get involved, support us, and be a part of this change contact friends@talbotheath.org You can still donate to the ongoing vision of the school through our fundraising page www.virginmoneygiving.com/fund/THVision. This will support the curriculum development, the delivery of it to local schools and also fund future equipment needs.
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
TALBOT HEATH | THE HUB | COMMEMORATIVE BOOK 2019
THe future starts here
Talbot Heath Independent School for Girls aged 3-18
Talbot Heath School | Talbot Woods | Bournemouth | 01202 761881 | talbotheath.org