Hi Everyone,
This week saw us welcome the brilliant Darren Coxon to our Wednesday Wisdom Webinar series of free online CPD. Darren talked us through how we could use AI to write schemes of work, revision notes and quizzes. Plus, he also put together a handy "cheat sheet" with prompts on so that you can replicate this in your setting, no  matter what subject you teach. The prompts are available with the Youtube Video - definitely worth a watch. Thank you to Darren for joining us and making AI accessible by sharing the prompts. Watch the recording here.

We've also made a couple of other further additions to the YouTube channel with some excellent CPD being uploaded this week on  History Learning Using Multimedia (with Luke Whitehouse) and Co-commercial Strategies for Success(with Dorothy McLaren from the Schools' Enterprise Association).

Another potential date for your diary is the SchoolTV free Wellbeing event on Wednesday 19th March. The speaker line up is superlative and includes Dr Emma Woodward, Dr Joe Stammeijer, Andrew Hampton and Tom Batty.  There will be panel discussion on tackling key mental health challenges facing students in today's world together with evidence based approaches to support student resilience and wellbeing.  The session will be chaired by John Southworth and promises to be an excellent opportunity to learn from the experts and network with peers. Senior Leaders in State and Independent schools are welcome to join.Please register here.

I'm sure many of you will already be of aware of this, but I came across PHET Interactive Simulations last week; it's brilliant for both primary and secondary maths and science - and completely free! I'd also recommend taking a look at Anton App; this contains free education resources from reception to Ks3 and works across all devices - it's superb!

I'm also delighted that spelling, grammar and punctuation resource Rollama are offering readers of this newsletter a 4 week free trial along with 10% discount if you really like it - see further details below.

Finally, there are still online and in-person tickets available for the 5th ISP Marketing Conference on the 28th March, we have a FREE online Employment Law update on Wednesday evening with Alice Reeves of VWV Partners, and there is also a new session on The Science of Reading: Actionable Insights for Primaries on the 30th April; also online and free of charge.

As ever, I hope that you find all of this of use and that you have a good week.
David
---
David Winfield
Founder, Independent Schools Portal.

​Are your students struggling with spelling? Confused by clauses? Puzzled by punctuation?
Rollama is a llama-themed website of focused mini-games to boost English grammar, punctuation, vocabulary, and spelling skills for 7-13-year-olds.
Built on evidence-based principles and designed by teachers with 18 years of KS2 & KS3 classroom experience, Rollama is fully aligned with the English National Curriculum.
With quick-setup accounts, students can play at home or school, on laptop, desktop, or tablet – and actually enjoy SPaG practice (seriously!)
Our bank of over 10,000 questions helps students build independent fluency in essential English skills. Instant marking and child-centred design create a positive feedback loop, boosting confidence and motivation to keep practising.
Start your free 4-week trial (no credit card required) at www.rollama.com/register to unlock everything Rollama offers:

Avatars
Medals
Assignments
Competitions
Global leaderboards
SATS prep resources
400+ SPaG activities (and counting)

Exclusive Offer for ISP Newsletter readers: Sign up by March 28th and enjoy 10% off your first subscription!

The speaker lineup includes:
Two keynote addresses: Sarah Cunnane, Head of Media and Communications at the ISC and Mark Brealey, former BBC Journalist and advisor to some of the most high profile public sector individuals on how to handle press and crisis situations.
Two case studies: Hear from fellow professionals - Jo Phillips from Giggleswick School and Laura Booth from Hymers College will be sharing their experiences.
Two topical sessions: We will hear from Sophy Walker as to how AI can aid your admissions  and marketing. Sally Alexander will also look at what we can do to drive admissions in the current period of economic uncertainty. 
Two sessions of your choosing:  An opportunity to choose the topic causing your school most consternation, from SEO to Social Media to Research to websites. These sessions will enable you to tailor your day to suit YOUR school
This really is an excellent opportunity to ensure your marketing and admissions is at the forefront and available for just £45. Sign up now to benefit from an early bird ticket.

The Science of Reading
Join us for an enlightening webinar designed specifically for UK primary school head teachers and educational leaders, focusing on the Science of Reading. This session will delve into the comprehensive research and evidence-based methods that underpin effective reading instruction. Our expert speakers will guide you through the critical components of the Science of Reading, and demonstrate how these principles can be seamlessly integrated into your school's educational framework to enhance reading outcomes and foster a love of reading among students. Book your place.

​The ISP has a huge selection of videos to support school leaders on the ISP YouTube Channel. This week, Mark Langley gives an overview from his original academic research at the University of Hull into why Deputy Heads decide (or not) to proceed on the journey into Headship. Full of fascinating insights into this under-researched area of Education. Watch here.

​Can Ofsted listen it's way out of it's political bind?
Hundreds of Academy Heads paid over £150k as the number on the 'gravy train' doubles over 5 years
Sir Hamid Patel appointed interim Ofsted Chair
Teacher pension contributions to increase next month

Hi Everyone,

A reminder that we have lots of CPD coming up in March: There's still time to get either an in-person or online ticket for the 5th ISP Marketing Conference on the 28th. The speakers and programme is simply outstanding an with tickets priced at only £45, it really is an event too good to miss!

We also have 2 free webinars coming up on AI in Education (12th) and the Employment Law Update for Independent Schools (19th). All details and links to sign up are below.

There's also a co-commercial strategies for success webinar at lunchtime on Wednesday and we'll we popping up a recording of the History Learning through Multimedia session on our YouTube channel at the end of the week; make sure you're subscribed to the channel to be notified each time pre-recorded CPD is uploaded.

I hope that you find this of use and that you have a great week.
​
David
---
David Winfield
Founder, Independent Schools Portal.

ISP Marketing and Admissions Conference 2025: in-person and online

​The speaker lineup includes:

Two keynote addresses: Sarah Cunnane, Head of Media and Communications at the ISC and Mark Brealey, former BBC Journalist and advisor to some of the most high profile public sector individuals on how to handle press and crisis situations.

Two case studies: Hear from fellow professionals - Jo Phillips from Giggleswick School and Laura Booth from Hymers College will be sharing their experiences.

Two topical sessions: We will hear from Sophy Walker as to how AI can aid your admissions  and marketing. Sally Alexander will also look at what we can do to drive admissions in the current period of economic uncertainty. 

Two sessions of your choosing:  An opportunity to choose the topic causing your school most consternation, from SEO to Social Media to Research to websites. These sessions will enable you to tailor your day to suit YOUR school

This really is an excellent opportunity to ensure your marketing and admissions is at the forefront and available for just £45. Sign up now to benefit from an early bird ticket.

AI in Education - An Introduction. Free CPD webinar - Wednesday 12th March 2025. 1930-2030.
Using AI in your teaching and equipping pupils with the skills to know how and when to use it themselves is vital. We will look at how AI can transform your teaching and learning. This session will delivered by leading expert Darren Coxon. Darren speaks regularly around the world on the topic of AI in education and is a leading expert. Book your place.

Employment Law Update for Independent Schools
We are delighted to be joined by Alice Reeves from VWV who will give us a whistle stop tour of the latest changes in employment law, and crucially, how they impact on the Independent Education Sector. Wednesday 19 March 2025 7:30 PM - 8:15 PM. Book your place.

Dear Colleague,
This week, I want to share an exciting opportunity for teachers. The Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) is offering its free LTA Youth Schools Teacher Training Course, designed to help teachers deliver high-quality, inclusive PE lessons with confidence.
What’s in it for teachers?

• A 90-minute online training course designed by teachers, with practical strategies to introduce tennis to all abilities – including SEND students.
• Ongoing access to resources, including lesson plans, activity guides and videos.
• A £250 voucher for their school to spend on tennis equipment or 10 hours of team teaching with an LTA Accredited Coach.
• Primary schools receive a resource pack with pupil rewards, fun games and exclusive LTA Tennisables character cards.
• Secondary schools are entered into a prize draw to win a money-can’t-buy experience for students and 16 tickets to the HSBC Championship WTA 500 event at The Queen’s Club.

With more than half of Britain’s schools signed up, the LTA is keen to ensure even more schools benefit - and it is completely free.
I hope that you find this of use and that you have a great week.
As ever,
David.
--
David Winfield
Founder, Independent Schools Portal.

The speaker lineup includes:
Two keynote addresses: Sarah Cunnane, Head of Media and Communications at the ISC and Mark Brealey, former BBC Journalist and advisor to some of the most high profile public sector individuals on how to handle press and crisis situations.
Two case studies: Hear from fellow professionals - Jo Phillips from Giggleswick School and Laura Booth from Hymers College will be sharing their experiences.
Two topical sessions: We will hear from Sophy Walker as to how AI can aid your admissions  and marketing. Sally Alexander will also look at what we can do to drive admissions in the current period of economic uncertainty.
Two sessions of your choosing:  An opportunity to choose the topic causing your school most consternation, from SEO to Social Media to Research to websites. These sessions will enable you to tailor your day to suit YOUR school
This really is an excellent opportunity to ensure your marketing and admissions is at the forefront and available for just £45. Sign up now.

History Learning through Multimedia
This webinar will look at how you can build a multimedia experience to ignite children's love of learning in history. 3D learning enables children to understand historical topics and really bring it to life through immersive and interactive scenes.
Wednesday 5 March 2025 4:15 PM - 5:00 PM. Book your place.

AI in Education - An Introduction. Free CPD webinar - Wednesday 12th March 2025. 1930-2030.
Using AI in your teaching and equipping pupils with the skills to know how and when to use it themselves is vital. We will look at how AI can transform your teaching and learning. This session will delivered by leading expert Darren Coxon. Darren speaks regularly around the world on the topic of AI in education and is a leading expert. Book your place.

Employment Law Update for Independent Schools
We are delighted to be joined by Alice Reeves from VWV who will give us a whistlestop tour of the latest changes in employment law, and crucially, how they impact on the Independent Education Sector. Wednesday 19 March 2025 7:30 PM - 8:15 PM. Book your place.

Dear Colleague
I'd like to draw your attention to some brilliant (and free!) CPD that the Independent Schools Portal has that is coming up. On the 5th March, it's all about Virtual Explorations: History Learning through multimedia, on the 12th March we have Co-commercial strategies for success and AI in Education: An Introduction. Finally, on the 19th March we have the Employment Law Update for Schools.

I strongly recommend these to you and interested colleagues.

We've also had some great feedback for our paid Preparing for Headship Course,with several success stories from the last few months, and don't forget that there are still a few online and in-person tickets still available for the 5th ISP Marketing Conference; the programme for this is simply outstanding.

I hope that you find these of use and I wish you a great week.

As ever,
David.
--
David Winfield
Founder, Independent Schools Portal.

The speaker lineup includes:

Two keynote addresses: Sarah Cunnane, Head of Media and Communications at the ISC and Mark Brealey, former BBC Journalist and advisor to some of the most high profile public sector individuals on how to handle press and crisis situations.

Two case studies: Hear from fellow professionals - Jo Phillips from Giggleswick School and Laura Booth from Hymers College will be sharing their experiences.

Two topical sessions: We will hear from Sophy Walker as to how AI can aid your admissions  and marketing. Sally Alexander will also look at what we can do to drive admissions in the current period of economic uncertainty. 

Two sessions of your choosing:  An opportunity to choose the topic causing your school most consternation, from SEO to Social Media to Research to websites. These sessions will enable you to tailor your day to suit YOUR school

This really is an excellent opportunity to ensure your marketing and admissions is at the forefront and available for just £45. Sign up now to benefit from an early bird ticket.

Written and presented by Tom Packer
To be a successful school leader, at whatever level, the ability and willingness on all sides to engage in a difficult conversation is vital. Yet all too often such conversations are avoided, or conflicting demands met with appeasement, with sometimes disastrous results. This course prepares you and your stakeholders to actively engage in open and honest conversations. You will learn well tried and tested tips and techniques with direct relevance to everyday school experience. Find out more and book.

​AI in Education - An Introduction. Free CPD webinar - Wednesday 12th March 2025. 1930-2030.
Using AI in your teaching and equipping pupils with the skills to know how and when to use it themselves is vital. We will look at how AI can transform your teaching and learning. This session will delivered by leading expert Darren Coxon. Darren speaks regularly around the world on the topic of AI in education and is a leading expert. Book your place.

​Curriculum review should incentivise schools to teach 'employment skills'
Education Secretary says Birbalsingh's account of meeting 'not as it was'.
Four ways to stop accidentally distracting your students (TES - Subscription Required)
School breakfast clubs in England will be used to justify the two child benefit cap

​Please share this newsletter with colleagues so that they are able to subscribe
​

Dear Colleague

Reading the many negative headlines this week about the new Schools Bill and the proposed new Ofsted inspection regime made me think about the famous Tim Minchin address to graduates of the University of Western Australia - in which he 'bestows' nine life lessons. One of these about the importance of being 'pro stuff' rather than constantly defining ourselves in opposition to things. So, despite being vexed by much of what I have learned, especially on the Ofsted front, I've decided to completely tune this out and focus on positives this week!

In this spirit, I had a long-standing engagement to attend a Geography meeting on Friday afternoon at Alwoodley Primary school in Leeds, delivered by the outstanding Deputy Head, Jess Hill. It was a fantastic and thought provoking afternoon and I learned about two tremendous (and FREE) resources that will help you deliver Geography in your school.

The first is the 'flyover' feature of Apple Maps - a brilliant way of giving pupils a different perspective of a city a feature that can be used in multiple ways and contexts. The second is the 2041School project, a charity founded by Jenny Cooke and Robert Swann OBE, which contains the most incredible Antartica resources and is described by the Geographical Association as a 'must have resource for Prep and Primary schools'; do take a look if you are not familiar with it - it's fabulous.

In another piece of positivity, if you're reading this on Sunday 9th February, our sister organisation - BlueCow Education - is running a competition on that more-kindly social media platform, BlueSky. They're giving away a large Hotel Chocolat dipping adventure to be delivered in time for Valentine's day and here's the link if this is of interest!

Finally, I've included information about Ben Brown's Building Connections conference in Liverpool in late March, below. This conference isn't affiliated to the ISP in any way, but I love Ben and his work - and this community building conference is going to be superb. There's also a discount code that you can use too if you'd like to attend.

I hope all this is of use and wishing you a great week!
David.
--
David Winfield
Founder, Independent Schools Portal.

The speaker lineup includes:

Two keynote addresses: Sarah Cunnane, Head of Media and Communications at the ISC and Mark Brealey, former BBC Journalist and advisor to some of the most high profile public sector individuals on how to handle press and crisis situations.

Two case studies: Hear from fellow professionals - Jo Phillips from Giggleswick School and Laura Booth from Hymers College will be sharing their experiences.

Two topical sessions: We will hear from Sophy Walker as to how AI can aid your admissions  and marketing. Sally Alexander will also look at what we can do to drive admissions in the current period of economic uncertainty. 

Two sessions of your choosing:  An opportunity to choose the topic causing your school most consternation, from SEO to Social Media to Research to websites. These sessions will enable you to tailor your day to suit YOUR school

This really is an excellent opportunity to ensure your marketing and admissions is at the forefront and available for just £45. Sign up now to benefit from an early bird ticket.

There are lots of challenges in education today and no silver bullet that defeats them all, but fostering a sense of connection within your school community can help bring everyone together to face these challenges as a group. This event brings together expert speakers, thought-provoking workshops, and valuable networking opportunities to empower you in building stronger, more cohesive school environments.

Key Topics

• Leadership: practical strategies for developing a connected school culture.
• Warm data: using data insights to enhance community relationships and support your decision making.
• Curriculum: Building a curriculum to connect to - education is more than just passing on academic knowledge.
• Communication: Strengthening connections with staff, pupils and parents.

Why Attend?

• Gain actionable insights from expert speakers.
• Participate in workshops designed to make you think.
• Network with other school leaders and share best practices.
• Leave with tools and ideas to implement in your school.

Live Speakers

• Ben Brown, founder of Education Roundtables and author of "A school leader's guide to belonging."
• Chris Reddy, founder of Bright Leaders
• Naveed Idrees OBE, Headteacher at the awesome Feversham Primary Academy in Bradford
• Ann Palmer, founder of Figtree International and the RACE charter mark
• Andy Kent, CEO of Angel Solutions
• Ed Fairfield, Director at Elementary Technology

Guest Appearances
Nicole Ponsford of the Global Equality Collective and Hywel Roberts, author of Botheredness, will also be contributing during the event.

Use code BLUECOW10 to claim £10 off the ticket price.

​AI in Education - An Introduction. Free CPD webinar - Wednesday 12th March 2025. 1930-2030.
Using AI in your teaching and equipping pupils with the skills to know how and when to use it themselves is vital. We will look at how AI can transform your teaching and learning. This session will delivered by leading expert Darren Coxon. Darren speaks regularly around the world on the topic of AI in education and is a leading expert. Book your place.

Dear Colleague

It was BETT week last week, and as ever it was an unrivalled sensory overload filled with networking, discovery, trade and CPD! If you managed to make it, I hope that you had a good show - and if you didn't, we've discovered four fabulous products that are completely free and potentially of considerable use to you:

1. Vizipedia. This promises to completely gamify learning; as well as numerous free games that have already been created, you can request an educator account: this will allow you to use the in-built AI to create games based on the curriculum that you are delivering. This promises to be completely transformational as it evolves!
2. Boclips. Boclips Classroom is a curated video alternative to YouTube for schools. It's huge in the United States and in fact, it is also the world's largest library of educational videos - and it is completely free for UK educators!
3. Math Ready. An Australian maths product aimed at children between 6-14. It contains 250 activities aimed at improving mental maths - and costs absolutely nothing!
4. TechSheCan. Tech She Can is a charity to inspire girls to consider tech careers. It offers free educational resources, live and on-demand lessons, after-school resources and inspirational video to name a few - well worth checking out.

I hope that you find these of use and that you have a great week!

As ever,
David.
--
David Winfield
Founder, Independent Schools Portal.

The speaker lineup includes:

Two keynote addresses: Sarah Cunnane, Head of Media and Communications at the ISC and Mark Brealey, former BBC Journalist and advisor to some of the most high profile public sector individuals on how to handle press and crisis situations.

Two case studies: Hear from fellow professionals - Jo Phillips from Giggleswick School and Laura Booth from Hymers College will be sharing their experiences.

Two topical sessions: We will hear from Sophy Walker as to how AI can aid your admissions  and marketing. Sally Alexander will also look at what we can do to drive admissions in the current period of economic uncertainty. 

Two sessions of your choosing:  An opportunity to choose the topic causing your school most consternation, from SEO to Social Media to Research to websites. These sessions will enable you to tailor your day to suit YOUR school

This really is an excellent opportunity to ensure your marketing and admissions is at the forefront and available for just £45. Sign up now to benefit from an early bird ticket.

AI in Education - An Introduction. Free CPD webinar - Wednesday 12th March 2025. 1930-2030.
Simon Jones will share his tips and tricks on how to get the best out of your iphone photos. Join us for this 45 minute session to learn from his vast experience and expertise. A must attend for anyone who is tasked with providing photos for the school, whether it's for social media, newsletters or your website. Book your place.

​The ISP has a huge selection of videos to support school leaders on the ISP YouTube Channel. In this week's video vault webinar, Simon Jones shares his tips and tricks on how to get the best out of your iPhone photos. A must watch for anyone who is tasked with providing photos for the school, whether it's for social media, newsletters or your website. Watch Now.

Big academy trust given a £1.5m loan to stay afloat
Education secretary outlines plans to modernise the education sector
The schools bill isn't vandalism - it should go even further​
Why games beat tests for primary maths assessment - TES (Subscription required)
Please share this newsletter with colleagues so that they are able to subscribe

It's been a really busy week here at the ISP with the webinar on the power of role models in schools (see the recording below), a brilliant Q&A session for aspiring heads with the wonderful RSAcademics recruitment team (don't forget that you can advertise you school roles on the Independent Schools Portal Jobs website and through our networks) - and there have been lots of paid market research opportunities for senior leaders in schools taking place.

This week of course we have a webinar on using iPhone photos to enhance your school marketing and Alicia and I will be spending some time at BETT -  if you're going to be around on Wednesday and Thursday, do let us know... we're always up for a cup of tea and chat!

Finally, the places for the 5th ISP independent schools marketing conference are being rapidly snapped up. There are still online and in-person tickets available, and the speaker line up is just fabulous - again, see below for more details.

Have a great week.
David.
--
David Winfield
Founder, Independent Schools Portal.

The speaker lineup includes:

Two keynote addresses: Sarah Cunnane, Head of Media and Communications at the ISC and Mark Brealey, former BBC Journalist and advisor to some of the most high profile public sector individuals on how to handle press and crisis situations.

Two case studies: Hear from fellow professionals - Jo Phillips from Giggleswick School and Laura Booth from Hymers College will be sharing their experiences.

Two topical sessions: We will hear from Sophy Walker as to how AI can aid your admissions  and marketing. Sally Alexander will also look at what we can do to drive admissions in the current period of economic uncertainty.

Two sessions of your choosing:  An opportunity to choose the topic causing your school most consternation, from SEO to Social Media to Research to websites. These sessions will enable you to tailor your day to suit YOUR school
​
This really is an excellent opportunity to ensure your marketing and admissions is at the forefront and available for just £45. Sign up now to benefit from an early bird ticket

Master iphones for marketing. Free CPD webinar - Wednesday 22nd January, 1230-1330.
Simon Jones will share his tips and tricks on how to get the best out of your iphone photos. Join us for this 45 minute session to learn from his vast experience and expertise. A must attend for anyone who is tasked with providing photos for the school, whether it's for social media, newsletters or your website. Book your place.

The ISP has a huge selection of videos to support school leaders on the ISP YouTube Channel. In this week's video vault webinar, Selena Whitehead discusses the ways in which a ‘strengths-based approach’ to learning, combined with the stories of historic and contemporary Amazing People can influence multiple learning outcomes and enhance school culture. Watch Now.

Senior Deputy Head
Stamford School • Lincolnshire • Closing date  31.1.25
Deputy Head Academic
Upton House School • Windsor • Closing date 10.2.25
Deputy Head (Operations & Pupils)
Wetherby Prep School • London • Closing date 14.2.25
Founding Head (Pre-Prep)
Westminster Under School • London • Closing date 24.2.25
​
Advertise unlimited jobs on the ISP Jobs Board and reach our huge network for just £295 per year!

Dear Colleague
​
I hope that you have had a good first week back in school, although I know a number of you have faced quite a bit of disruption with the weather; thankfully the thaw seems to be spreading across the country and things can get back to normal.

In this week's newsletter, I want to let you know about three opportunities that you may not be aware of. First of all, if you're on the SLT of your school, I can strongly recommend the BlueCow Education online supplier showcases. These events are a bit like online speed-dating - simply watch 6 presentations over 90 minutes whilst filling in an online feedback form, and receive a £40 Amazon voucher sent to your inbox afterwards as thanks. I can't recommended these sessions highly enough as a way to see what products can support the sector - and they are also super CPD. Click here to find out more and reserve your place.

Free Pilot for Independent Schools
MyPerformanceLearning is a unique online assessment and learning tool devised by Dr Tej Samani used by some of the leading UK Independent schools such as Rugby, Eton and Strathallan. They are now looking to extend their reach in the sector having established proven results. They are running a pilot for 10 schools to participate in - and there are a few spaces left. This pilot includes:

• An initial assessment for each student in Year 10 or Year 11
• Detailed feedback reports on both individual students and the entire cohort
• Insights into critical areas for growth, like wellbeing, confidence, and academic readiness
• Access to tailored online lessons that target specific challenges

If you would like to learn more about this pilot please do join them for a ’short webinar on Wednesday 15th January at 12.30pm to learn how this pilot could benefit your school. Book your space here.

Free AI Powerpoint to support primary teachers
Many of you will know James Grocott, a Deputy Head at a primary school near Ipswich by his Twitter persona, DeputyGrocott, and his wildly heartwarming and smile inducing Eduadvent giveaways each December. James has recently put together a simple and extremely useful powerpoint that helps primary teachers save lots of planning time using ChatGPT - and he's happy to share it with readers of this newsletter - you can access it here. If this gets you interested in the topic of AI, you can also watch Darren Coxon's AI video from the vault below, or take a look at Darren's AI course.

I hope that you find all of this of use and I wish you another great week.

David.
--
David Winfield
Founder, Independent Schools Portal.

The speaker lineup includes:

Two keynote addresses: Sarah Cunnane, Head of Media and Communications at the ISC and Mark Brealey, former BBC Journalist and advisor to some of the most high profile public sector individuals on how to handle press and crisis situations.

Two case studies: Hear from fellow professionals - Jo Phillips from Giggleswick School and Laura Booth from Hymers College will be sharing their experiences.

Two topical sessions: We will hear from Sophy Walker as to how AI can aid your admissions  and marketing. Sally Alexander will also look at what we can do to drive admissions in the current period of economic uncertainty. 

Two sessions of your choosing:  An opportunity to choose the topic causing your school most consternation, from SEO to Social Media to Research to websites. These sessions will enable you to tailor your day to suit YOUR school

This really is an excellent opportunity to ensure your marketing and admissions is at the forefront and available for just £45. Sign up now to benefit from an early bird ticket.

The recruitment season is now in full swing and if you are an aspiring independent school head, then you could do a lot worse than take a look at this highly rated pre-recorded course. Covering key topics such as marketing, leadership style, finance and HR. A great way to learn with the opportunity to directly question our experts and meet with fellow aspiring heads online at the termly Headship Clinics with the RSAcademics recruitment team.

​Includes videos on:
​
1. Applying for Headship - finding the right fit
2. Enhancing your leradership style
3. The significance of marketing
4. Understanding schools finances
5. Employment law in practice
+ 7 further hours of bonus support content

Highly recommended for anyone looking for a Headship in an Independent School. Find out more.

Master iphones for marketing. Free CPD webinar - Wednesday 22nd January, 1230-1330.
Simon Jones will share his tips and tricks on how to get the best out of your iphone photos. Join us for this 45 minute session to learn from his vast experience and expertise. A must attend for anyone who is tasked with providing photos for the school, whether it's for social media, newsletters or your website. Book your place.

​"You can't be it if you can't see it" The power of role models for Primary Leaders, CPD Webinar, Weds 15th Jan, 1615 - 1700.
Knowing yourself and understanding your potential is the key to unlocking a world of possibility for children and students. And when young people can see and learn from the stories of role models – amazing people who succeed in the face of adversity – the impact is lasting and powerful. That impact can be felt in a range of areas for pupils and their schools, from the promotion of EDI, pupil mental health and wellbeing, to the development of key skills for a tech-driven workplace, behaviour and oracy. Brought to you by Selena Whitehead from Amazing People Schools this session will look at how you can take a ‘strengths-based approach’ to learning in your school. Sign up here to join us or access a free copy of the recording.

Senior Deputy Head
Stamford School • Lincolnshire • Closing date  31.1.25
Assistant Head - Academic
The Perse School • Cambridge • Closing date 14.1.25
Deputy Head (Teaching, Learning and Curriculum)
Caterham School • Surrey • Closing date 13.1.25

Advertise unlimited jobs on the ISP Jobs Board and reach our huge network for just £295 per year!

In an ever-changing world, education must evolve to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and critical thinking needed for the future. Independent schools, with their unique level of autonomy, are well-positioned to be at the forefront of educational innovation. Free from many of the bureaucratic constraints that often limit state schools, independent schools can experiment with new teaching methods, incorporate cutting-edge technology, and develop creative curricula. By embracing these opportunities, independent schools can set benchmarks for the wider education sector, fostering a wave of change that benefits students beyond their own walls.

Autonomy: The Key to Innovation
One of the greatest advantages that independent schools have is their freedom to innovate. Unlike state-funded schools, independent schools are not bound by the national curriculum or the same levels of government oversight. This allows them to design and implement their own curricula, tailor teaching methods to meet the needs of their students, and trial new technologies without needing to navigate extensive and bureaucratic approval processes.

For example, while state schools may need to adhere to strict testing and assessment guidelines, independent schools can adopt more holistic approaches to education. They can focus on nurturing critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills—competencies that are increasingly important in the modern world. This autonomy allows for the development of unique, forward-thinking educational models that prioritise student well-being and engagement, setting standards for what education could look like across the board.

Adopting Innovative Teaching Methods
One of the most important ways independent schools can lead educational innovation is by experimenting with and adopting new teaching methodologies. Progressive schools around the world are continue to shift from traditional, teacher-centred approaches to more student-centred learning models, such as inquiry-based learning, project-based learning, and flipped classrooms.

Inquiry-based learning encourages students to ask questions, explore topics deeply, and discover answers for themselves, fostering independent thinking and curiosity. Similarly, project-based learning allows students to engage in hands-on, real-world projects that develop problem-solving and collaboration skills. Independent schools, with smaller class sizes and more flexible structures, are ideally placed to implement these kinds of methodologies and refine them based on results.

The flipped classroom model, where students study instructional content (often via video or podcast content), engage in interactive activities or discussions in the classroom, is another teaching strategy that has been successfully implemented in some independent schools, with a notable example being Brampton College. By focusing classroom time on active learning rather than passive lecture, this model can lead to better student outcomes and more meaningful engagement.

Harnessing the Power of Technology
Technology is playing an increasingly central role in education, and independent schools have the freedom and resources to be early adopters of new tools. From virtual reality (VR) experiences to artificial intelligence (AI) tutoring systems, independent schools can use technology to create more engaging and personalised learning environments.

Virtual reality offers a particularly exciting opportunity for education. Independent schools can use VR to transport students to historical events, explore scientific phenomena up close, or even travel to different parts of the world—all without leaving the classroom. This kind of immersive learning is not only more engaging but can also lead to a deeper understanding of complex concepts.

AI-driven platforms that provide personalised learning experiences are increasingly gaining traction. These systems can adapt to individual students’ learning styles and paces, offering customised feedback and support. Independent schools, which often have more flexibility in their budgets and infrastructure, can more readily experiment with and implement such cutting-edge tools to enhance the learning experience.

Creating Dynamic and Future-Ready Curricula
Curriculum design is another area where independent schools can truly lead. Because they are not bound to a national curriculum, they have the freedom to develop courses that reflect the demands of the 21st century, focusing on the skills and knowledge students will need in the future workforce.

Many independent schools have already taken the lead by introducing subjects such as coding, robotics, and entrepreneurship from a young age. These subjects not only prepare students for future careers but also develop critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Additionally, independent schools can integrate interdisciplinary learning, where subjects like science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) are taught alongside the humanities to develop well-rounded learners.

Schools can also focus on sustainability education, teaching students how to address global challenges like climate change. By developing curricula that incorporate environmental awareness, independent schools can foster a generation of students who are not only academically capable but also socially and ethically conscious.

Sharing Innovation with the Wider Education Sector
Independent schools have the ability to pioneer new educational methods, but they also have a responsibility to share their learnings with the broader education community. By collaborating with state schools, participating in research projects, or hosting conferences, independent schools can ensure that successful innovations have a wider impact. Many independent schools are already engaged in partnerships with state schools, sharing resources and best practices, which helps to drive improvement across the sector.

Additionally, independent schools can contribute to educational research by conducting studies on new teaching methods or technologies and sharing the results. This not only elevates the standard of education within independent schools but also contributes to the advancement of education more broadly.

Conclusion
​Independent schools in the UK are uniquely placed to drive educational innovation. Their autonomy, access to resources, and ability to experiment allow them to adopt new teaching methods, integrate advanced technology, and create dynamic curricula that prepare students for the future. By leading in these areas, independent schools can set benchmarks for the wider education sector, ensuring that innovations in education ultimately benefit all students, regardless of the type of school they attend. As independent schools continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in education, they play a vital role in shaping a future where all students can thrive.
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In the UK, independent schools have long been recognized for their academic excellence, often topping league tables and sending students to prestigious universities. However, the true strength of these schools lies beyond their academic achievements. What sets independent schools apart is their holistic approach to education, one that balances academic rigour with a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities, pastoral care, and personal development. This comprehensive model shapes students into well-rounded individuals, preparing them not only for university but for life itself.

Academic Excellence with a Difference
Academic success remains a cornerstone of independent schools. Smaller class sizes, dedicated teachers, and tailored learning programs allow for a level of individual attention that many state schools cannot offer. This focus on personalized education enables students to thrive in subjects they excel in, while receiving additional support in areas where they may struggle. However, while academic excellence is a significant goal, independent schools do not view it as the sole measure of success.

A common philosophy among independent schools is that education is about more than just exams and grades. These institutions aim to cultivate critical thinking, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning. Students are encouraged to question, debate, and explore beyond the curriculum, fostering intellectual curiosity that lasts well beyond the school years.

The Importance of Extracurricular Activities
One of the most significant advantages of independent schools is the extensive range of extracurricular activities they offer. From competitive sports teams and music ensembles to drama clubs and robotics societies, there is something for everyone. These activities are not just optional add-ons to the school day; they are integral to the school’s ethos.

Participation in sports, for example, teaches students valuable life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and resilience. Whether it's rugby, netball, or tennis, sports foster discipline and a healthy sense of competition. Additionally, performing arts programs such as drama and music help develop confidence, creativity, and self-expression. Many independent schools offer opportunities to perform in professional-level productions, giving students experiences that enrich their personal growth.

Moreover, independent schools encourage students to pursue their interests outside of traditional academic subjects. Clubs like debating, Model United Nations, and Duke of Edinburgh award schemes help students broaden their horizons, enhance their communication skills, and develop a global perspective. This diversity of opportunities enables students to discover new passions, build friendships, and gain experiences that will stay with them throughout their lives.

Pastoral Care: Supporting the Whole Child
While academics and extracurricular activities are important, independent schools also place great emphasis on pastoral care. The well-being of students is central to the mission of these institutions. Independent schools understand that for students to succeed academically and socially, they must feel supported emotionally and mentally.

Pastoral care systems are designed to ensure that every student has a trusted adult they can turn to, whether it be a form tutor, housemaster, or school counselor. Many schools operate a house system, which creates smaller, close-knit communities within the school. This fosters a sense of belonging and allows for more personalized attention to the emotional well-being of each student.

Independent schools often go beyond reactive pastoral care by proactively promoting mental health and emotional intelligence. Regular wellbeing sessions, mindfulness programs, and open discussions about mental health are increasingly common, helping students build resilience and coping strategies. Schools also promote positive peer relationships, addressing issues like bullying and social anxiety before they escalate. By providing this supportive environment, independent schools ensure that students can focus on their studies and personal development without undue stress.

Personal Development: Preparing for Life Beyond School
At the heart of an independent school education is a commitment to developing the whole person. These schools understand that academic qualifications alone are not enough to succeed in an increasingly complex and competitive world. As such, independent schools focus on preparing students for life beyond the classroom by teaching them essential life skills.

Leadership programs, public speaking opportunities, and mentorship schemes are common features in independent schools, equipping students with the confidence and skills needed to navigate adult life. Schools also emphasize moral and ethical development, often through community service projects or charity work, encouraging students to think about their responsibilities to society.

In addition to practical skills, independent schools help students develop emotional intelligence. By fostering empathy, self-awareness, and interpersonal skills, these institutions prepare young people to succeed in diverse social settings, whether in university, the workplace, or personal relationships.

Conclusion: A Holistic Education for a Bright Future
​Independent schools in the UK offer much more than academic excellence. Their holistic approach to education—balancing rigorous academics with rich extracurricular programs, strong pastoral care, and a focus on personal development—ensures that students leave school as well-rounded, confident individuals. This comprehensive model not only helps students achieve top grades but also prepares them for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in life. In nurturing the whole child, independent schools create young adults who are not only academically capable but also emotionally intelligent, socially responsible, and ready to contribute to the world around them.