Heads Unscripted

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.

Credits: Produced, edited and mixed by Yusuf Johnson

Our guest this episode is Claire Boyd, Head of Glendower Preparatory School, a leading independent girls’ school in Kensington, London. Claire is now in her third headship within the independent sector, and with a background in educational leadership and curriculum development, she brings a wealth of insight into what truly matters in primary education. Claire is a passionate advocate for the transformative power of the Early Years and Key Stage 1, and is keen to champion the role these formative stages play in shaping a child’s lifelong learning journey. She is also a strong proponent of play as a cornerstone of early childhood development—believing it to be essential for lifelong learning and success.

During the episode Claire and Simon explore how these formative stages shape children’s emotional and intellectual growth, their learning behaviours, and their emerging sense of agency. They discuss the importance of nurturing environments, the strength of teacher-parent relationships, and how neuroscience can inform thoughtful curriculum design. They also reflect on the balance between academic rigour and the development of human skills, the transformative power of play, and why we must look beyond exam results when defining success in education. Claire offers insightful advice for parents as they navigate their child’s early learning journey. Credits: Produced, edited and mixed by Yusuf Johnson

Dr Kathy Weston is the founder of Tooled Up Education, a renowned speaker, author, and academic whose work bridges the worlds of psychology, education, and parenting. With a background in social science research and a doctorate in education, Kathy has spent her career equipping families and schools with the tools they need to help children thrive. Through her consultancy and digital platform, Tooled Up, she curates and translates the latest research into practical resources that support mental health, resilience, and emotional development. Kathy is a passionate advocate for early intervention and empowering parents and teachers alike to create environments where children can flourish—not just academically, but emotionally and socially.

In this episode, Simon and Kathy talk about the essential role of early education in shaping children’s emotional, social, and cognitive development. They discuss the importance of high-quality early years provision, the influence of school culture, and the role of play in fostering emotional literacy and self-efficacy. The conversation also touches on post-pandemic challenges, parental anxiety, and the need to prepare children for a digital world without compromising their wellbeing. Together, they advocate for a balanced, holistic approach—one that nurtures curiosity, confidence, and strong partnerships between schools and families.

Credits: Produced, edited and mixed by Yusuf Johnson

Our first guest on Series 2 is Dominic Norrish, the Chief Executive of IAPS (The Independent Association of Preparatory Schools), a leading voice in the UK independent education sector. With a career that spans teaching, school leadership, and digital innovation, Dominic brings a unique blend of pedagogical insight and strategic vision to his role. Today, Dominic champions the value of prep schools within a changing educational and societal landscape, supporting hundreds of member schools to adapt, lead and thrive.

Simon speaks with Dominic about the critical role of early education in shaping a child's future. They explore the evolving landscape of education—from the rise of AI to the growing importance of emotional regulation and holistic human development. They discuss the challenges parents face in choosing the right school, and the need for strong teaching and leadership. The conversation also touches on changing approaches to assessment, the financial pressures on schools, and why adapting to new realities must not come at the cost of children’s emotional wellbeing or their love of learning. Credits: Produced, edited and mixed by Yusuf Johnson

In this episode, Simon talks to Su Wijeratna, Head of Latymer Upper, about her impressive educational journey, the value of Co-Ed settings, Latymer's brave new assessment offer, and key challenges facing the sector at this time. Credits: Produced, edited and mixed by Yusuf Johnson

Simon talks to Rob Milne about Emanuel, his educational philosophy and key challenges facing the sector at this time. Simon also talks to Rob about his move to Dulwich College in the next academic year and the smooth transition to his successor at Emanuel. Credits: Produced, edited and mixed by Yusuf Johnson

Simon talks to Rowena Cole about Lady Eleanor Holles, her educational philosophy, single sex schools, and key challenges facing the sector at this time. Credits: Produced, edited and mixed by Yusuf Johnson

Simon talks to Fionnuala Kennedy about Wimbledon High, a girls first education and key challenges facing the sector at this time. Credits: Produced, edited and mixed by Yusuf Johnson

Simon talks to Jo Sharrock about Putney High, their educational philosophy and key challenges facing the sector at this time. Credits: Produced, edited and mixed by Yusuf Johnson

Simon talks to Mark Hoskins about Reed's, his educational philosophy and other key challenges facing the sector at this time. Credits: Produced, edited and mixed by Yusuf Johnson