SWPS Spotlight

In this episode, Simon speaks with Dr Nasser and a group of students taking part in the SEEd Young Changemakers programme at SWPS. The conversation explores how the initiative helps students develop practical sustainability projects while building confidence, communication, and leadership skills.

Episode highlights

• What the SEEd Young Changemakers programme is and how it works
• Why the students chose two sustainability focus areas: solar energy and biodiversity
• How the solar energy group researched feasibility, costs, and return on investment
• How the biodiversity group planned an eco garden to support learning and school culture
• The role of student-led advocacy, presentations, and discussions with school leadership
• How the programme helps students become “world ready”

To mark British Science Week, Year 12 students Liuba, Ellie and Genevieve turn the tables on their teachers - Dr Nasser, Mr Lawson, Ms Struebing and Miss Bahd - in a lively reverse quiz. Their thoughtful questions open fascinating discussions on consciousness, toxicity, the possibility of alien life and future STEM pathways. A brilliant showcase of student curiosity and scientific thinking.

Key topics:

1. The elusive nature of consciousness in animals, robots, and humans
2. What makes substances poisonous and how doses affect toxicity
3. Possibility of life elsewhere in the universe and recognising alien life
4. Pathways into STEM careers and the role of GCSEs, A Levels, and work experience
5. Redesigning the science curriculum to focus on skills and curiosity-driven learning

Welcome to the SWPS Podcast – where we celebrate the experiences that make our students world-ready. Today, we’re shining a spotlight on the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at Sir William Perkins’s School. This incredible programme gives students opportunities beyond the classroom, builds confidence, and teaches skills for life that truly set them apart. We’ll be hearing from students who are taking part, and from Trevor Kirby, the DofE Award Scheme Manager at SWPS, about the impact of the award and how the school has achieved one of the highest participation and completion rates in the region. Let’s find out more, come with me now.

1. DofE provides a framework for personal growth and skill development.
2. The programme includes bronze, silver, and gold levels, each with increasing challenges.
3. Students gain confidence and leadership skills through participation.
4. Wild camping is a key component, teaching self-sufficiency and resilience.
5. The support system includes school staff and parent volunteers.
6. DofE helps students stand out in university and job applications.
7. Teamwork is essential for success in DofE expeditions.
8. The programme encourages students to disconnect from technology and engage with nature.
9. DofE is accessible to all students, regardless of prior outdoor experience.
10. Parents play a crucial role in supporting the DofE programme.

Summary

In this episode of SWPS Spotlight, we celebrate two exceptional Year 12 student-athletes: Taylor, an England Talent Pathway hockey goalkeeper currently competing at National League Level, and Sophie, proudly selected to represent Ireland in the U17 Europe Netball Championships. Joined by our Director of Sport, Mr Brown, they share what it truly takes to balance academic excellence with sporting ambition, how the school has supported them on their sporting journey, and why mindset is the key to driving success.

Words of Wisdom from Sophie: "When you're in the place where you just don't think you're good enough, or you know you're further behind than others, just keep going because you can and will improve. Keep pushing forward and don't forget to enjoy it too."

Taylor’s Mental Game: "Once you are past the skills and ability, it's all a mental game."

An inspiring listen for all members of our community, packed with advice, resilience, and motivation from two elite athletes.

Links

www.swps.org.uk

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Sierra and Ashbury, share their academic journeys, personal growth, and experiences at SWPS. They discuss their impressive A-level results, memorable moments from school, and the leadership opportunities that shaped their confidence. As they transition to university life, they reflect on their aspirations in physics and the importance of balancing academics with social life.

Takeaways

• Sierra and Ashbury both achieved four A stars in their A-levels.
• The pantomime at SWPS was a highlight of their school experience.
• Sierra felt supported by teachers during her time at SWPS.
• Ashbury gained confidence in making friends and being open.
• SWPS encouraged students to try a variety of activities.
• Leadership roles helped develop their organisational skills.
• Time management was crucial for balancing academics and extracurriculars.
• Both sisters enjoyed a vibrant social life during school.
• Sierra is excited about her future in physics at Oxford.
• Ashbury looks forward to studying physics at Edinburgh.

Join us in this insightful episode as we explore the transformative journey of SWPS transitioning to a co-educational school. Dr Steven Berryman and Heather O'Connor discuss the motivations, challenges, and exciting opportunities that come with this significant change. Discover how the school is preparing its staff and students for a new era of inclusive education.

Key Highlights:

• The rationale behind SWPS's decision to become co-educational.
• Insights into the phased approach and its impact on current students.
• How the school is maintaining its strong academic and pastoral care reputation.
• The role of staff training in preparing for a co-ed environment.
• Exciting new opportunities in arts and sports with the inclusion of boys.

Summary

In this episode, Dr Rachel Fentem shares her journey from being a student at Sir William Perkins’s School to becoming a diplomat and soon-to-be ambassador. She reflects on her various roles within the UK government, the impact of her education in classics on her professional development, and the vital role of cultural understanding in diplomacy. Rachel underscores the importance of pursuing one’s passion and offers thoughtful advice to students about discovering purpose in unexpected places.

Takeaways

• Rachel’s career path was shaped by her early interest in diplomacy.
• Her education in classics provided critical thinking skills essential to her role.
• Cultural understanding is fundamental in international relations.
• Becoming an ambassador is both a great honour and a significant responsibility.
• Rachel highlights the importance of passion when making career choices.
• She encourages students to embrace non-linear and unexpected career paths.
• Inspirational teachers can leave a lasting impact on students’ lives.
• Language skills are crucial for success in diplomacy and global engagement.
• Her experiences in Japan and Germany underscore key cultural differences.
• It’s never too late to pursue personal passions, such as music and dance.

Links

www.swps.org.uk

Summary

This conversation explores the Peter Jones Foundation's Tycoon Challenge, an initiative aimed at fostering entrepreneurial skills among students. The discussion includes insights from teachers and students about the challenge, their business ideas, the lessons learned, and the importance of sustainability. The conversation also touches on the broader educational opportunities for developing entrepreneurial thinking and the debate on whether entrepreneurial skills can be taught or are innate.

Takeaways

• The Tycoon Challenge encourages entrepreneurial spirit among students.
• Students create business plans and receive loans to start trading.
• The challenge is open to students across the UK, free of charge.
• Participants develop transferable skills like teamwork and problem-solving.
• Sustainability was a core focus of the students' business ideas.
• Time management was crucial for balancing schoolwork and business.
• Financial literacy was a key lesson learned during the challenge.
• Networking with business owners provided valuable insights for students.
• Educational initiatives help students practice entrepreneurial skills.
• Entrepreneurial skills can be taught and are essential for future success

Links

www.swps.org.uk

Summary

This conversation explores the importance of oracy in education, with a particular focus on how it supports students’ communication skills, self-confidence, and overall academic achievement. The discussion features insights from both educators and students, highlighting the practical use of oracy in school settings, the value of extracurricular involvement, and the crucial role parents play in helping children build these abilities.

Takeaways

• Oracy is vital for developing clear communication and confidence.
• Students gain from structured opportunities to practise oracy.
• Strong oracy skills help prepare pupils for future job interviews.
• Activities such as Model United Nations effectively enhance oracy.
• Teachers are key in supporting and guiding oracy development.
• Confidence in public speaking improves with regular practice.
• Oracy skills are relevant across multiple subjects and learning areas.
• Parental encouragement plays an important part in oracy development.
• Effective time management contributes to academic success.
• Pupils should make full use of school resources to strengthen their skills.

Links

www.swps.org.uk

Summary

In this podcast episode, Dr Steven Berryman and Ms Picton discuss the future of education, focusing on the balance between innovation and pupil well-being, the need for assessment reform, the impact of artificial intelligence, and the value of interdisciplinary learning. They stress the importance of preparing pupils for an unpredictable future while ensuring they enjoy their educational experience. The conversation explores both the challenges and opportunities posed by technology in education and underscores the importance of community involvement.

Takeaways

• Preparing pupils for a future that cannot be fully predicted is vital.
• Balancing educational innovation with pupil well-being is essential.
• Assessment methods must evolve to better reflect real-world skills.
• AI brings both opportunities and challenges to the classroom.
• Interdisciplinary learning boosts pupil engagement and real-world relevance.
• Collaboration and critical thinking are key areas of focus for pupils.
• Technology should be used thoughtfully to enhance learning.
• Strong community engagement enriches pupils’ educational experiences.
• Pupils value a school environment without mobile phones during the day.
• Education should strike a balance between subject knowledge and skill development.

Links

www.swps.org.uk