Summary

In this conversation, Simon Jones speaks with Gemma and Dr. T about the vibrant music programme at Wycliffe College. They discuss the balance between academic and extracurricular music, the significance of carol services, and the unique aspects of the music department that cater to individual student needs. The conversation also highlights the diverse musical backgrounds of students, the daily life in the music department, and upcoming events that showcase student talent.

Key Takeaways

• Wycliffe offers a comprehensive music program that includes both academic and extracurricular activities.
• Carol services are a cherished tradition that marks the start of the Christmas season for the school community.
• The small size of Wycliffe allows for personalised attention to each student’s musical journey.
• Students are encouraged to participate in music regardless of their prior experience or skill level.
• The music department fosters connections with local music hubs to enhance student opportunities.
• Diverse instruments and cultural backgrounds enrich the music program at Wycliffe.
• Daily activities in the music department are varied and cater to different musical interests.
• Students often continue their musical pursuits in university, joining choirs and orchestras.
• The house music competition fosters teamwork and a sense of community among students.
• Listening and appreciating music is emphasized alongside performance in the curriculum.

Links online:

School website: www.wycliffe.co.uk

This was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

Summary

In this podcast episode, Simon Jones engages with Scott Costello and Jenny Price to explore the intricacies of boarding life at Wycliffe College. They discuss the structure of boarding houses, the community feel among students, the diversity of the boarding population, and the adjustment process for new boarders. The conversation also delves into the daily routines, weekend activities, and the cultural exchange that enriches the boarding experience. Both Scott and Jenny share valuable insights and advice for prospective students, emphasizing the importance of involvement and openness in making the most of their time at boarding school.

Takeaways

• Boarding houses are structured to foster community.
• Diversity in boarding enriches the student experience.
• Adjustment to boarding life varies by individual.
• Engagement in activities helps students settle in.
• Evenings are structured with prep time and socializing.
• Weekends offer a variety of fun activities.
• Cultural exchange is a key aspect of boarding life.
• Students are encouraged to try new experiences.
• Photos from home help create a sense of belonging.
• Being open-minded enhances the boarding experience.

Links online:

School website: www.wycliffe.co.uk

This was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

004 - Wycliffe College is a co-educational, non-selective independent school with a total of 630 pupils. The college offers a wide range of subject choices and has a caring and supportive community. They have a diverse student body, with pupils from over 30 countries. The admissions process involves informal visits, taster days, and assessments. The college emphasises both academic success and pastoral care, ensuring that students are happy and supported. To get in touch, visit their website or attend one of their open events.

Keywords

Wycliffe College, co-educational, non-selective, independent school, prep school, senior school, boarding, international pupils, admissions process, academic success, pastoral care

Links online:

School website: www.wycliffe.co.uk

This was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

003 - Andrew Stone, Deputy Head Academic at Wycliffe Prep, discusses the school's curriculum and the role of a deputy head academic. He emphasises the importance of a powerful vision statement and a pioneering spirit in education. Stone also highlights the school's Saturday morning program, which offers unique learning experiences and opportunities for collaboration and leadership. He explains the benefits of being a non-selective school and the focus on personal excellence for all students. Stone shares his insights on what makes an outstanding teacher, including a growth mindset, reflection, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Takeaways

• A powerful vision statement and a pioneering spirit are essential in education.
• The Saturday morning program at Wycliffe Prep provides unique learning experiences and opportunities for collaboration and leadership.
• Being a non-selective school does not mean lower expectations; Wycliffe Prep focuses on personal excellence for all students.
• Outstanding teachers have a growth mindset, reflect on their practice, and continuously seek to improve.
• The home-school partnership is crucial, and Wycliffe Prep actively involves parents in their children's education.

Links online:

School website: www.wycliffe.co.uk

This was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

002 - Richard Lee, Deputy Head Pastoral at Wycliffe College, discusses the school's focus on well-being and academic excellence. He highlights the importance of creating a warm and welcoming learning environment, celebrating diversity, and fostering a pioneering spirit. Lee emphasizes the need for strong relationships between teachers and students, as well as between parents and children, to support well-being and behavior management. He also addresses the impact of social media on children and the role of parents in guiding their use. Lee recommends books that engage reluctant readers and emphasizes the importance of a reading culture within families.

Takeaways

• Creating a warm and welcoming learning environment is essential for supporting well-being and academic excellence.
• Strong relationships between teachers and students, as well as between parents and children, are crucial for supporting well-being and behavior management.
• Parents should be mindful of the impact of social media on children and take an active role in guiding their use.
• Engaging reluctant readers can be achieved through books that tap into their interests, such as sports, gaming, and graphic novels.
• Fostering a reading culture within families is key to developing a love of reading in children.

Links online:

School website: www.wycliffe.co.uk

001 - In this conversation, Helena Grant, Head of Prep School, discusses the school's vision, the importance of world readiness, the Kirby Challenge, extracurricular activities, and the difference between Wycliffe Prep School and local primary schools.

Takeaways

• The importance of world readiness and the school's vision
• The impact of the Kirby Challenge on personal development
• The role of extracurricular activities in academic life
• The difference between Wycliffe Prep School and local primary schools

Links online:

School website: www.wycliffe.co.uk

This was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

Welcome to our new podcast. This is an exciting new venture and we're really looking forward to bringing you engaging content for you to hear. If you have any questions about what's coming up, or if you'd like to be a guest on a future episode, then do please just get in touch. But in the meantime, please click the option to follow or subscribe and the first episode will be delivered straight to you.

Links online:

School website: www.wycliffe.co.uk

This was produced by The Bonjour Agency.