In the Berkhamsted spotlight

In this episode, Simon speaks with Alice Fletcher, Head of Heatherton School, about settling into a new leadership role, what makes a purposefully small all girls school distinctive, and how Heatherton supports girls to flourish academically and personally. Alice also explains how she is building on the school’s pastoral strengths while raising its academic profile, and how she works with staff and parents to make the right next step for every girl.

Key topics:

• Alice Fletcher’s first term at Heatherton was spent listening, watching, and learning the rhythm of the school before making changes.
• Heatherton sits within the Berkhamsted Schools group but keeps its own identity in Amersham, serving girls aged 3 to 11.
• The school’s size is a strength, allowing staff to know every girl and parent well and build a close community.
• Alice makes the case for single sex education, arguing that girls can feel freer, more confident, and less pressured in an all girls environment.
• She describes how Heatherton uses research about how girls learn, including practical choices such as investing in construction resources that better support the way girls naturally build.
• Alice shares her own educational path, from an all girls primary school in Hammersmith to Tudor Hall, and says that experience helped her thrive.
• Her route into teaching began with a business degree, followed by volunteering in an inner city Leeds school, which led her to complete a PGCE and become a teacher.
• She brings broad experience from the independent sector, the state sector, Dubai, Australia, and top prep schools in London.
• In her first months as head, she focused on staff listening and parent engagement, including coffee mornings and drinks evenings before formally starting the role.
• Preparation for senior school begins early through purposeful play, assessments informed by data, and conversations with families about the right next school for each girl.
• Alice stresses that academic outcomes and pastoral care are not competing priorities, but complementary ones.
• She sees healthy risk taking as essential, whether that means climbing trees, getting muddy, or speaking in front of classmates.
• Her long term aim is to strengthen Heatherton’s academic reputation while preserving the strong pastoral culture that already exists.

https://www.berkhamsted.com/heatherton/

Tel: 01442 358001

In this episode we explore the evolving landscape of career education in schools with Simon Long, Head of Careers at Berkhamsted. He shares insights on early career development, the importance of resilience, and how schools can prepare students for an unpredictable future shaped by AI and changing industries.

Key topics:

• The importance of starting career conversations early, from Year 7 onwards.
• Strategies for making students intentional about their career paths using tools.
• The role of real-world exposure through guest speakers, alumni networks, and industry visits.
• Emphasising transferable skills like resilience, creativity, collaboration, and adaptability.
• Preparing students for 'squiggly' careers and encouraging exploration rather than linear paths.
• The impact of AI on future job sectors and the need for skills beyond subject knowledge.
• The value of holistic development, including soft skills, emotional resilience, and self-awareness.
• The significance of one-to-one careers guidance and personalised support.
• Leveraging alumni networks to inspire current students and provide real-world perspectives.
• The importance of continuous career planning, self-assessment, and openness to pivot at any stage.

In this episode, Alan Gillman, Head of Estate Services, discusses various aspects of school management, including the importance of coach routes, innovations in tracking systems, safety measures, and sustainability initiatives. He shares insights into how the school engages with students and parents, ensuring a safe and environmentally responsible learning environment.

Takeaways

• The school operates 12 main coach routes for student transportation.
• Real-time tracking of coaches improves safety for students and parents.
• Safety measures include a lanyard system for students.
• CCTV is used primarily for lost property and child protection.
• The school achieved ISO 14001 for energy management.
• Sustainability initiatives include electric vehicles and eco-friendly practices.
• Students are encouraged to participate in eco committees.
• Community engagement is vital for the school's success.

In this episode we speak with Martin Walker, Vice Principal and Principal at Berkhamsted School, about his journey into leadership, the importance of community, and the evolving role of technology in education. Martin shares insights on school values, leadership challenges, and how to inspire students and staff alike.

In this episode:

• Martin's motivation for joining Berkhamsted and his journey from Head of Sixth Form to Principal
• The significance of community and the school’s culture of innovation
• Reflections on the demanding interview process for school leadership roles
• His perspectives on leadership, service, and empowering others
• The design philosophy behind Berkhamsted’s new Sixth Form building
• The importance of purpose and passion in post-school careers
• How technology is transforming revision and learning strategies
• Inspiring leadership models, including Gareth Southgate, Serena Vigman, and Nelson Mandela
• Balancing tradition and innovation in education

In this episode we hear from Debbie and Ryan at Berkhamsted who explore the significance of early years education. They discuss the structure of early years programmes, the importance of play in learning, and how risky play fosters resilience in children. The conversation highlights the critical role of parental involvement and the need for nurturing curiosity and imagination in young learners.

Takeaways

• Early years are crucial for brain development.
• Play-based learning is essential for engagement.
• Risky play encourages resilience and confidence.
• Parental involvement enhances children's learning.
• Reading to children significantly boosts vocabulary.
• Curiosity should be nurtured in educational settings.
• Children learn best through exploration and play.
• Communication skills are vital for future success.
• Imagination is key to developing future skills.
• Every child's achievement should be celebrated.

Links:

https://www.berkhamsted.com/pre-prep-and-prep-open-events

This podcast episode explores the sport of Eton Fives at Berkhamsted, featuring insights from pupils and staff. We have Oliver from Y6, Tom from Y13 and Mr Davey, Head of Rackets. We discuss the history, rules and unique aspects of the game, emphasising its benefits for students' physical and social development. The conversation highlights the importance of sportsmanship, strategy, and the personal growth that comes from playing Eton Fives.

Takeaways:

• Eton Fives is a formalised handball game played on a three-wall court.
• The game originated at Eton College and has historical significance.
• Eton Fives emphasises ambidexterity and strategic thinking.
• Students benefit from the physical and social aspects of playing Eton Fives.
• The game teaches sportsmanship and integrity through self-refereeing.
• Eton Fives is played in doubles, requiring teamwork and communication.
• The sport is accessible to students from year three onwards.
• Playing Eton Fives helps develop balance, agility, and quick reflexes.
• The game encourages critical thinking and decision-making skills.
• Eton Fives fosters a sense of community and lifelong engagement in sports.

Today we explore the theme of curriculum innovation in education, focusing on how schools are adapting to the changing needs of students in a rapidly evolving world. The discussion includes insights on global perspectives, skills development, innovative learning tools, and the importance of independent learning. The guests share their experiences and strategies for creating a curriculum that prepares students for future challenges and opportunities.

Takeaways

• Curriculum innovation is essential for adapting to a changing world.
• A connected curriculum integrates knowledge, skills, and character development.
• Global perspectives courses emphasise 21st century skills like empathy and problem-solving.
• Innovative tools like Empathy Studios enhance student learning experiences.
• The Learning Edge curriculum addresses skill deficits identified through data.
• Key Stage 4 innovations include the Higher Project Qualification for independent projects.
• Students are encouraged to explore their interests through independent learning.
• The Extended Project Qualification prepares students for university-level work.
• Teaching powerful knowledge can transform students' educational experiences.
• The concept of a '100-year life' encourages lifelong learning and adaptability.

In this conversation, Heads of Berkhamsted Boys and Berkhamsted Girls, Tom Hockedy and Jo Vila what makes Berkhamsted such a special place to learn and work, and reflect on the close collaboration between our Girls and Boys schools.

They also explore our “diamond” structure which enables pupils to benefit from the best of both worlds at Berkhamsted. They explain the strengths of a single-sex education alongside rich co-educational opportunities.

From the use of our outstanding facilities across all sites, to co-curricular clubs and trips, pupils come together across the group in so many meaningful ways.

Berkhamsted online

Website: www.berkhamsted.com

Facebook: BerkhamstedSchool

Instagram: berkhamstedschools

074 - In this podcast episode, the Head Boy and Head Girl, George and Verity, share their experiences and insights about their roles, the application process, and the responsibilities that come with leadership in their school. They discuss the importance of inspiration from role models, memorable moments in their school life, and offer valuable advice for younger students. Additionally, they reflect on their future aspirations and how their leadership experiences will shape their university life. 

Takeaways 

• The application process for head boy and girl is intense and involves multiple stages.
• Group activities during the application help assess leadership qualities.
• Being a role model for younger students is a key responsibility.
• Inspiration often comes from family members, especially mothers.
• Advice from previous head leaders can be invaluable during the application process.
• Memorable moments in school often revolve around sports and camaraderie.
• It's important for students to embrace failure as a learning opportunity.
• Students should explore their passions and take advantage of opportunities.
• Leadership experiences can enhance public speaking and organisational skills.
• Future aspirations often include continuing education and pursuing careers in politics.

Berkhamsted online
Website: www.berkhamsted.com
Facebook: BerkhamstedSchool
Instagram: berkhamstedschools

073 - This podcast episode explores the Learning Pathways programme at Berkhamsted School, focusing on the Higher Project Qualification (HPQ) for Year 10 students. 

Sophie Brand, the acting Head of Learning Pathways, discusses the structure and benefits of the HPQ, including how it allows students to explore their interests and develop essential research skills. 

Graduate Teaching Assistants Amber and Fran share their experiences and insights on guiding students through their projects, the importance of topic selection, and the broader educational benefits of the program. The conversation highlights the significance of fostering student independence and passion in learning.

Takeaways

• Learning Pathways allows students to explore diverse topics.
• The HPQ is a qualification worth half a GCSE.
• Students engage in independent research projects.
• Graduate Teaching Assistants play a crucial role in mentoring.
• Research skills are essential for academic success.
• Students can choose topics beyond the standard curriculum.
• The HPQ prepares students for future academic pursuits.
• Cross-curricular links enhance the learning experience.
• Students often change their research questions during the process.
• Exploring personal interests can reignite passion for learning.

Berkhamsted online
Website: www.berkhamsted.com
Facebook: BerkhamstedSchool
Instagram: berkhamstedschools