Heads & Tales

In this episode, Peter Hyman shares his unique journey from political strategist to educator, discussing the evolution of education in the UK, the importance of oracy and the challenges faced by teachers and politicians alike. He reflects on his experiences in the classroom, the significance of mentorship, and his vision for the future of education, emphasising the need for authenticity in political communication and the importance of listening to young people.

Our next guest on Heads & Tales needs little introduction. As Head Master of Eton College for the last decade, Simon Henderson is at the helm of one of the world's most recognisable, and scrutinised, schools. In a Heads & Tales first, Simon joined us in person in the studio, speaking to Walter Kerr about the reality of running a near 600-year-old institution whilst preparing teenage boys for a world changing faster than any generation before them.

In this episode of Heads & Tales, Walter Kerr speaks with Jade Bowler, creator of the Unjaded Jade platform and author of The Only Study Guide You’ll Ever Need. Jade traces her journey from high-achieving student to global educator, reflecting on Minerva University, active learning and the emotional realities of modern adolescence. She also makes the case for why authenticity, wellbeing and real-world skills should sit at the heart of any meaningful education reform.

In this episode of Heads & Tales, Henry Faber speaks with Robert Tomalin, Principal of Oeiras International School in Lisbon. From his own journey through the UWC movement to leading a truly international IB school, Robert reflects on diversity, service learning, leadership and why community remains the defining strength of any school. He also makes a compelling case for why publishing exam results may do more harm than good.

In this episode of Heads & Tales, Henry Faber is joined by Matt Horvat, Head of the American School in London. Matt reflects on leading one of the capital’s most distinctive international schools, the difference between American and British approaches to education and what schools can do to balance academic rigour with human connection in an AI-obsessed world.

Up next on Heads & Tales is journalist and author Jenny Anderson, whose book The Disengaged Teen has reshaped how educators and parents understand adolescent learning. Tapping into the minds of 68,000 students, Jenny explains why so many teens switch off from school, the four modes they cycle through and what parents and teachers can do to help them rediscover their drive and purpose.

Sir Anthony Seldon is a man of many guises – historian, author and without doubt one of the most influential educators in the UK. From the impact of AI to a crisis of unhappiness in schools, Seldon argues that the future of education hinges on rediscovering what makes us truly human. His episode is one of meaning, humility and hope, told with the unquestionable authority of a man who has dedicated his life to both politics and the classroom.

In this episode of Heads & Tales, Henry Faber hosts Jane Lunnon, Head of Alleyn’s School. From expanding Alleyn’s network of schools to launching pioneering AI and wellbeing programmes, Jane shares her philosophy on leadership, creativity and courage, and why she believes schools should be places of joy, curiosity and connection.

In this episode of Heads & Tales, Henry Faber is joined by Steve Marshall-Taylor, Headmaster of Brighton College. Steve reflects on what it means to lead a community built on both tradition and innovation, from the unifying power of whole-school moments to the quiet resilience that defines great teaching and leadership. He talks about Brighton’s growing boarding culture, the global reach of its partner schools and how international expansion funds life-changing bursaries at home. Above all, he makes the case for celebrating quiet confidence: the kind of self-assurance that doesn’t need to shout to make an impact.

In this episode of Heads & Tales, Henry Faber speaks with Naheed Bardai, Principle of UWC Atlantic College. From rescuing an Afghan student during the Taliban takeover to launching an innovative new curriculum, Naheed shares how this radical Welsh boarding school is preparing teenagers for the complex, interconnected world of 2060.