In this episode Mark Lascelles, the head of Epsom College discusses his experiences and insights gained over his first year at the school. He highlights the importance of school culture, the admissions process, and the need for a holistic education that prepares students for the future. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced by the school, the significance of pupil voice, and the evolving role of technology in education. “Heads Talks” is not affiliated with the “Heads Talk®” podcast.

Credits: Produced, edited and mixed by Yusuf Johnson

In this conversation with Simon, Alexandra Haydon discusses her experiences and insights as the head of Frances Holland, an all-girls school. She reflects on her own educational journey, the distinctive features of her school, and the importance of relational teaching and psychological safety in fostering a supportive learning environment. Alexandra emphasises the significance of creativity, service, and volunteering in education, as well as the need for a curriculum that connects knowledge to real-world applications. She also addresses the challenges of preparing students for the future and the role of all-girls education in personal development. “Heads Talks” is not affiliated with the “Heads Talk®” podcast.

Credits: Produced, edited and mixed by Yusuf Johnson

In this episode of Heads Talks, Simon Gould sits down with Ravi Kothakota, the newly appointed headmaster of Emmanuel School, to explore the transformative journey of leadership and the evolving landscape of schooling. With a focus on academic ambition, wellbeing, and community connection, Khothakota shares his vision for nurturing well-rounded students in a rapidly changing world. The conversation explores innovative group experiences in the admissions process, emphasising the importance of teamwork, empathy, and the learning process over the final outcome. It highlights how these group activities allow students to connect, collaborate, and develop essential skills for their educational journey. “Heads Talks” is not affiliated with the “Heads Talk®” podcast.

Credits: Produced, edited and mixed by Yusuf Johnson

In this conversation, Amy Cavilla discusses her experiences and insights as the head of Radnor House, touching on the school's ethos, the transition from an all-girls to a co-educational environment, and the importance of community values. She elaborates on the upcoming developments at Kneller Hall, the admissions process, and the innovative curriculum designed to prepare students for the future. The conversation also highlights the significance of pupil voice and wellbeing, as well as the hope for a politically engaged and curious generation. “Heads Talks” is not affiliated with the “Heads Talk®” podcast.

Credits: Produced, edited and mixed by Yusuf Johnson

In this conversation, James Hook, headmaster of Harrodian School, discusses the distinctive ethos of the school, emphasizing its beautiful setting, strong community, and commitment to both academic excellence and a broad curriculum. He shares insights on how the school supports students during their transition to senior school, fosters a sense of agency and self-efficacy, and prepares them for A-levels and beyond. The conversation also touches on the importance of student wellbeing, mentorship, and the need to rethink traditional processes like the 11 plus exam in light of modern educational challenges. “Heads Talks” is not affiliated with the “Heads Talk®” podcast.

Credits: Produced, edited and mixed by Yusuf Johnson

In this conversation, Simon Gould speaks with Matthew Shoults, the principal of Surbiton High School, about the evolving role of schools in society, the importance of creating a supportive and psychologically safe environment for students, and the benefits of all-girls education. They discuss the challenges posed by technology, the need for creativity and mindfulness in education, and the significance of student wellbeing. Matthew shares insights on preparing students for future transitions, balancing academic rigor with holistic development, and the impact of assessment systems on student experiences. The conversation concludes with advice for parents on making informed educational choices for their children and a hopeful outlook on the future of education. “Heads Talks” is not affiliated with the “Heads Talk®” podcast.

Credits: Produced, edited and mixed by Yusuf Johnson

Toby Seth is the newly appointed Headmaster of Whitgift School, one of the UK’s leading independent day and boarding schools for boys aged 10 to 18, based in South Croydon. He joins Whitgift with a track record of thoughtful, values-driven leadership, most recently as Head of Pocklington School in Yorkshire, and previously as Deputy Head at King’s Macclesfield

Educated at Cambridge University, Toby brings both academic rigour and a modern, forward-facing mindset to his leadership. He began his teaching career in London, before holding leadership roles in a range of day and boarding environments including Goldolphin and Latymer, Wellington and Dulwich College, giving him a broad perspective on the independent sector.

Toby is committed to combining intellectual stretch with strong pastoral care, and is passionate about preparing young people for the realities of a changing world.

In this conversation, Toby Seth shares his insights on the school's community, educational approach, and future direction. He emphasises the importance of individual relationships between staff and students, the breadth of opportunities available for all boys, and the school's commitment to maintaining its heritage while embracing innovation and diversity. Seth discusses the support systems in place for students and outlines the school's strategies for preparing boys for future challenges, including the evolving landscape of education and societal expectations. “Heads Talks” is not affiliated with the “Heads Talk®” podcast.

Credits: Produced, edited and mixed by Yusuf Johnson

Today we welcome Will le Fleming who is the Founding Master of Thomas’s College in Richmond, an 11–18 day and boarding school rethinking the secondary journey with a three-year Sixth Form that begins in Year 11 and a hybrid pathway that blends GCSEs with Thomas’s Qualifications; Years 12 and 13 are reshaped to deepen scholarship, independence and readiness for life beyond school.

Educated at Eton and Clare College, Cambridge, Will worked as a journalist and author before moving into teaching. He began at St Paul’s School, becoming Undermaster, then served as Deputy Head at St Paul’s Girls’ School. He went on to lead Fulham School as Headmaster and later became Head of The Abbey School in Reading, before his appointment to Thomas’s College. Alongside teaching, he is a published novelist.

Will’s leadership blends rigorous scholarship with wellbeing, pupil agency and creative endeavour, fostering confident, curious and principled young people who achieve outstanding outcomes.

In this conversation, Simon and Will discuss the innovative educational approaches at Thomas's College, emphasising the importance of a diverse school culture, student agency, and personal development. They explore the challenges of navigating academic choices and assessments, the need for reform in the current education system, and the role of technology in preparing students for an uncertain future. The conversation highlights the significance of kindness, confidence, and hope in education, advocating for a more holistic approach to learning. “Heads Talks” is not affiliated with the “Heads Talk®” podcast.

Credits: Produced, edited and mixed by Yusuf Johnson

“Heads Talks” is not affiliated with the “Heads Talk®” podcast.

Credits: Produced, edited and mixed by Yusuf Johnson

Our guest today is Emma Turner, a highly respected voice in primary education, known for her deep expertise in curriculum design, teaching and learning, and school leadership. With almost 30 years’ experience in education, she has served as a class teacher, assistant head, deputy head, and co-head. She is a leading advocate for using cognitive science to inform curriculum and pedagogy, and is the author of several influential books including Simplicitus and Be More Toddler. Emma is a Fellow of the Chartered College of Teaching, co-hosts the Mind the Gap podcast and is a contributor to the Excellence Hub, a research-based initiative focused on helping schools create high-quality, interconnected curricula that support long-term learning and pupil wellbeing.

In this episode, Emma and Simon discuss the powerful role of early education in shaping how children learn, think, and grow. The conversation draws on cognitive science to highlight how self-efficacy, agency, and independence are best fostered in early childhood. They also reflect on the role of cultural capital, the risks of premature formalisation in primary education, and the vital role of parents in nurturing creativity, language, and confidence at home.

“Heads Talks” is not affiliated with the “Heads Talk®” podcast.

Credits: Produced, edited and mixed by Yusuf Johnson