Aspiring Head

Moving On

2007-05-08T22:14:00.000Z

I have finally decided to move my blogging over to a Edublogs which is wordpress based. We use wordpress at my school, BCPS, and I enjoy the ease-of-use and flexibility that it has.

So I hope that you, if you are a subscriber (for which I am most greatful), will take a moment to modify your feed to http://neiljones.edublogs.org/feed/

Thank You & Happy Blogging

Are the media finally catching up?

2007-04-17T20:59:00.000Z

The rise of teachers' blogs News crumb EducationGuardian.co.uk

Its wonderful that the Guardian have published this piece about blogging by teachers. But there is far more to teacher blogging than the "welcome to my world" approach that is discussed here.

The links at the side of this blog testify to the use to which blogging is put in the sharing of information and the spread of ideas. There is too much of the diary-style blogging around, its the sharers like Andy and Doug that need the spotlight.

Heads 'do not improve schools', but what about Roy Keane?

2007-04-17T20:47:00.000Z

BBC NEWS Education Heads 'do not improve schools'

Another in the occasional series "Why On Earth Do You Want To Be A Head?" starts this time with research from the Policy Exchange think-tank - "The Leadership Effect: Can Headteachers Make A Difference?". Well an initial (and sarcastic) response to that question would be no, because even teachers can't make a difference, that would be the job of the classroom assistants!

The research has found that changing headteachers does not necessarily effect a great deal of change in poorly performing schools. Good schools remain good, poor schools, poor. What the report suggests is that only root & branch reform - changes in Senior Management & Governors - can really make improvements in school performance and therefore pupil achievement.

However, it is not the Head that makes the difference but the management style that they offer. I believe that any Head worth their salt in today's educational climate does not rule as an autocrat, but motivates pupils and staff. Provides the community with the tools that it needs to operate effectively. It can be about micro management, but the essence of successful leadership is how to best delpoy one's resources and keep a happy ship. Now if I can get my NPQH based in that soundbite...

As Martin Ward of the union ASCL points out:

In fact, the report says that the most important thing heads can do for their
pupils is to make sure that there are good teachers in their classrooms

The world of football management is rife with hirings & firings on a whim from chairmen of underperforming clubs. There are innumerable examples of how hiring a new manager because they are a "name" has backfired completely. Yet then there is Roy Keane. As agressive and antagonistic and talented on the pitch as any player could be, he had a reputation for being as hard-as-nails. Yet, in taking over at Sunderland when they were at the foot of the Championship, he has displayed a style of management that has belied what was expected from him and he has had huge success this season.

I am certainly no Sunderland fan, however, as a student of management styles his is one worth further investigation. A useful article providing some insight is from the Belfast Telegraph. And clearly his is a richer and more rounded approach than he perhaps was expected to provide. It certainly reinforces my view that sound management stems from an awareness of what the organisation requires from you not what you think the organisation ought to be.

A second look at school life | News crumb | EducationGuardian.co.uk

2007-04-06T17:41:00.000Z

A second look at school life

How about this? Moodle on steriods! By using second life pupils have been taught in virtual classrooms within the ever more popular 3D online "meeting place". Reading the article it seems to be a really rather impressive application of web 2.0 combined with online gaming. Very impressive.

Now...when are they going to implant that cable into my brain?

Learning Brain Conference

2007-04-03T10:34:00.000Z

Phil Whiston has sent the following information regarding the second Lerning Brain Europe conference.

The Learning Brain Europe Conference
4th – 5th June (Oxford) and 7th – 8th June 2007 (Harrogate)

The Macclesfield and Bollington EIP has sent delegates to the BrainExpo conference in the US for
several years and found it to be a major influence on our drive to develop teachers’
understanding of learning and their ability to create more effective classrooms.

They decided to re-create the BrainExpo experience in the UK, and the first conference was held
in 2005. It was attended by 1300 teachers and feedback was extremely positive. To ensure an
even better experience for 2007, they have invited back some of the most popular speakers with
new presentations, and have added a number of new names. All are renowned for their knowledge and their ability to inspire and motivate."

An important development in British Education & one which Phil is eager to promote through our blogs. So here is my bit to help.

The Tipping Point

2007-03-18T11:10:00.000Z

Although I'm not a Watford fan, an interesting feature in February's Observer Sport Monthly caught my attention. Apparently Aidy Boothroyd is an avid student of management theory and is an advocate of both The Tipping Point by Malcom Gladwell and Moneyball by Michael Lewis. Although it hasn't done much for Watford's fortunes it serves to emphasise the importance of applying broader principles to the management of your chosen field.

Now, I wonder what Martin Ling's (Orient manager) been reading - probably his final warning from Barry Hearn!

The Ideas Hamsters

2007-03-17T21:41:00.000Z

Searching for killer apps...

Peter Ford gave me Phanfare a online photo-sharing application. By registering as a school you can set up the site as it it were a section of your schools own webite or blog.

Then there is Netvibes. Like Yahoo's or Google's personalised home pages, but better.

After Doug's bubbl.us link there are also a couple of other online brainstorming/drawing tools: Gliffy & Freemind. Both different but worth looking at. Doug has also put a great deal of work into the world of Google and the tools that may be of use to teachers.

An interesting development from the Google universe is Google Co-Op. It is very much like Roll-Yo, which came out a while back (and I think I learned about through Doug). It allows you to create your own search engine. It is worth trying the Edublogoshpere. It could work very well for students, especially young ones like mine, who need fewer sources to wade through.

And then there are many more such as Twitter, Writely or PB Wiki

The list of tools (killer apps) is seemingly endless and is the cause of much wasted time! However the search for something that might make digital life a little easier makes the search all the more intriguing.

Bubbl.us

2007-03-17T20:02:00.000Z

Here is my attempt at the use of Bubbl.us with my year 4's. They loved it! And were particularly patient while I fiddle at the computer!

Ideas Hamsters

2007-03-15T15:15:00.000Z

That veritable ideas hamster Doug Belshaw continues to come up with more exciting & interesting toys for your blog.

One of them, bubbl.us, worked really well with my year 4's as a visualisation of our disscussion about the reasons for settlement & migration over the centuries.

Incubation Times and Infectivity

2007-02-16T10:47:00.000Z

You know how its important to think outside the box in school management? Well here's a little gem that might help school leaders in dveloping Health & safety policies!!

Incubation Times and Infectivity - Patient UK

Because you never know when you will be called upon to act as an epidemiologist - one of your many roles as a Head!

More On The Headship Crisis

2007-02-16T08:56:00.000Z

In attempting to work through what it takes to aspire to headship, I have to wonder about the current bad press that the role of the Head is getting. Take this blog from Mr Read's 'How Not To Teach'. It is a distillation of the recent debate on the paucity of applicants for headships in the state sector.

His links make for interesting, and frightening, reading & I include them here as a ready reference:

Falling
numbers of applicants
The psychological effects on Heads
Health survey
Numbers
aspiring to headship

As someone aspiring to headship from the Independent Sector it is clear that the lack of contact with the classroom is a big factor in the alienation that Heads may feel. They become desk jockeys that no amount of Leadership Training ever prepares you for. If we are to be prepared for Headship I feel that we must be prepared for they administration that defines the role. That then will provide us with a very different skill set from the one that has been previously promoted.

As Mr. Read puts it...

With workload and hours a major issue it probably wasn’t brilliant timing
to demand that prospective Heads have to pass the National Professional
Qualification for Headteachers. Its supporters claim that it’s a rigorous course
that will prepare candidates for the managerial qualities needed in a modern
education system. An alternative view is that that the paper-laden NPQH is there
to churn out a line of lobotomised robots who will uncritically implement every
directive from the DfES rather than produce excellent pedagogues who can inspire
and enthuse a new generation of teachers.

However it has to be that unique blend of pedagogoue & pedant which makes for a sucessful head. And the NCSL must look to how this can be done & not march on with motivational courses which inspire but do not prepare.

Snow Day

2007-02-08T23:17:00.000Z

When it snows...

With the excitement of our current snowy, winter wonderland, here is some advice to those who feel that they ought to add to the choas on the roads...

...stay home & build a snowman

Snow Day 07 on Vimeo

The Challenge of Headship

2007-01-28T23:10:00.000Z

Independent Online Edition > Schools

To add my twopenny worth (from the Independent...)

In theory there has never been a better time to be a head teacher. In the
secondary sector, salaries have soared in recent years, with £100,000 packages
not unusual for the larger urban schools, while Brent in north-west London
recently advertised for a primary head at £90,000.

I have, at last reached my career enlightenment and finally understand that Headship is not simply a progression from Deputy. It is entirely another job altogether, one that we are not prepared for just by teaching for years.

As Peter Stanford, in the Independent points out:

She [Kerry George of the NAHT] also believes that imposing
career expectations from the commercial sector on to the teaching profession can
be a mistake. "There seems to be an assumption in government thinking," she
reflects, "that every classroom teacher has a headteacher's baton in their
knapsack. But that isn't why many people go into teaching and the whole way
teacher training is set up has little to do with an expectation that you may one
day end up as head."

And yet, I have met many inspiring teachers in both the Maintained & Independent Sectors who should be the leaders of their communities yet do not feel that it is for them. I am very afraid that what we will get are passionless, vision-free heads who are simply a safe pair of hands. And who's decision will that be?

A safe pair of hands is exactly what Authorities and Governors want, of course. But it is, I am convinced, only part of the story. A head has to carry their passion for education with them from their career as a teacher. However, they have to understand how to realise that vision in a way that carries the whole community along. Communicating to children, parents, governors and any others with an interest in the school. And the sooner that the teachers with real passion for education are trained how to do this, the better.

Use Your Head, Teach at Hornton

2007-01-26T19:47:00.001Z

With the IAPS Aspiring Heads conference this weekend, a timely reminder of our priorities in leading a school. Now if only the governors who interview candidates were looking for the same person...

Who really Matters

2007-01-26T12:58:00.000Z

With the IAPS Aspiring Heads Conference this weeken, here is a timely reminder as to where our priorities lie when leading a school.

Horton School Wants A Head

Now, if only the governors had the same person specification...

Miles Berry :: Weblog :: Those learning platform service providers in full...

2007-01-16T15:49:00.000Z

For Future Reference...
Miles has listed a number of Learning Platform providers & points out the continued lack of air space being given to those open source providers like Moodle. Still bills, must be paid!

Miles Berry :: Weblog :: Those learning platform service providers in full...

Is this the future?

2007-01-16T10:27:00.000Z

A fascinating read through the Primary IB information...

With our increasing disquiet over the National Curriculum, its constraints & its assessment, the time is approaching to reconsider just what & more importantly how we are delivering learning opportunities to our pupils.

IB Primary Years Programme curriculum framework overview

Public schools brace for a stern examination over soaring fees | News crumb | EducationGuardian.co.uk

2006-12-12T21:28:00.000Z

Public schools brace for a stern examination over soaring fees

And so it begins...Last Sunday's Observer describes a scheme by the Scottish Charity Regulator to examine the public benefit provided by charities North of the Border.

This comes at a difficult time for independent schools. South of the border there is similar uncertainty following new legislation last month that will mean all UK charities (which include over 80 per cent of the country's 2,500 private schools) must now prove they provide sufficient benefit to the public to warrant the tax breaks they enjoy. For the schools, the breaks amount to about £100m year, mainly through rates relief.

It will be High School of Dundee that stands as the institution that will test out Scottish legislation on charitable status. But before we start to worry unduly, it appears that there will be some division between the regions. Perhaps devolution will have proved a benefit to some...

Unlike the Scottish legislation, the recently passed Charities Act 2006 in England and Wales makes no mention of fees; in fact, it leaves the term 'public benefit' undefined...according to some lawyers this means that all private schools need do is show they save the Exchequer money (which they do - about £2bn a year by educating over 600,000 pupils) and provide a service above that offered by the state (such as smaller class sizes or extra facilities).

With Schools like St. Paul's, Winchester & Eton laying foundations for the future where "widening access" will be a reality, then, of course, the future management of Independent Schools encourages us to look at this concept in an even broader sense.

With the advent of Every Child Matters in the Maintained Sector, we are certainly well placed to jump what Lord Sudbury calls "an extraordinarily low hurdle". But then, legislation in England does not include a review of fees when considering the public benefit of Independent Schools.

Why is all this ICT stuff so important?

2006-12-06T12:34:00.000Z

The FordLog » Blog Archive » Gareth Davies on Phil Beadle

I think I've found a key quote that will allow us to understand precisely why web 2.0 initiatives are just so important.

To not be engaged in the forms of communication that this technology
affords means, as an English teacher, you are unable to inform and educate
students on how to become a constructive member of today’s society.

It comes from Gareth Davies, one of many educators who understand the relevancy of ICT in education today. What he writes, especially in this article is something that ought to allows to address the pedagogic implications in greater earnest.

Pupil Health & Safety

2006-11-26T08:25:00.000Z

TeacherNet: Pupil Health & Safety

Just a reflection on the way last week started...

In the 12 years that I have been teaching PE and games no one has ever been seriously hurt until, that is, last Monday. What makes me laugh is that with all the angst & worry over health and safety in school sports, particulary rugby, the only child ever to damage themselves in one of my sessions is a 6 year old who was actually standing still at the time!

There we were, me and my Monday afternoon Year 1 football class. Running up and down, a few at a time, dribbling the ball. Then, from just over my right shoulder I hear a child crying. Turning round I saw X, who was waiting their turn, lying on the floor in what looked like a lot of pain.

Now as I mentioned above, I 've never encountered a serious injury. Also I've seen a lot of whinging kids who just had a bang. But there was a different quality to this little person's reaction. I could just sense it. So, I called for the nurse and she came running and dealt with the situation before the other 19 five and six year-olds ran amok!

Sure enough there was a broken arm. The child had simply over balanced while fiddling with the ball and fallen over. A freak accident.

So, the next time anyone tries to tell me how dangerous rugby is for young children...

BBC NEWS | Business | At-a-glance: The Stern Review

2006-11-01T08:29:00.000Z

What price responsibility? Is this what we educate for? To promote a sustainable future? To engender a responsible attitude?

The Stern Review

The importance of literacy & numeracy is clear when placed in the context of the future with which our children have to contend. They have to be able to read & critically analyse reports & data presented to them & make up their own minds as to the role that they want to play in ensuring a sustainable future.

Parents 'want safer school trips'

2006-10-29T17:37:00.000Z

Here's one to watch. If school management has any challenges, this is one of the biggest...

BBC NEWS | Education | Parents 'want safer school trips'

Four steps to being chucked on the scrapheap

2006-10-26T10:48:00.000Z

EducationGuardian.co.uk - Four steps to being chucked on the scrapheap

As always - a little sense on our chaotic world & another opportunity to post on the occasional theme of: "Why the Independent Sector is best!"

Reading through the article by Phillip Beadle, above, is once again proof that established & experienced teachers (regardless of the sector in which they work) know how to create learning experiences for their pupils.

Some teachers believe that the four-part lesson plan is a move to
standardise to such an extent that anyone can deliver a lesson. It seeks to
take the element of professional judgment out of teaching, so that it is no
longer a graduate job, and lessons can be delivered by teaching
assistants.

He goes on to support the valuable work that teaching assistants do. However it highlights the essential freedoms that exisit in the indeepndent sector and how our colleagues in Maintained schools are continually harangued to conform to a model that many know to be unworkable, ineffective and uninspiring for both teacher and learner.

His message - To teach as you are inspired. Communicate with the pupils in a way that delivers your objectives so that they can be remembered and used!

Planet Under Pressure

2006-10-24T21:05:00.000Z

BBC NEWS Science/Nature Introduction: Planet Under Pressure

So...turn off electrical items at the wall

Please Don't Tell The Head of Music!

2006-09-21T21:18:00.000Z

BBC NEWS | Health | Music training boosts the brain

Well this will really prove a point! Scientifically proven: Music education improves brain function.

I certain it does. But then I listen to the year 3 music carousel & its my brain function that needs boosting!

School fee inflation 'slows down'

2006-09-21T21:10:00.000Z

BBC NEWS | Business | School fee inflation 'slows down'

So what does it mean? Maybe the post-millenium building programme has ceased and we are not hiking our fees to pay for them! Perhaps we are keen not to turn off the new generations of parents somewhat apprehensive to take the plunge into Independent Education. The article ends with the quote:

"Despite the growing relative expense of sending a child to a private school, this has become a more popular option for parents.

In 2005/06 they accounted for 6.7% of all school places, up from 6.2% five years ago."

If fees cease to rise so rapidly we maybe seeing a rise in the numbers in Independent school places.

Flickr

2006-08-29T11:06:00.000Z

This is a test post from , a fancy photo sharing thing.

Are private schools thriving?

2006-05-29T14:00:00.000Z

Very wel worth a read...

BBC NEWS | Education | Are private schools thriving?

The answer, according to Mike Baker, is yes, however...

"Some leading members of the independent sector are now warning against complacency."

In our increasingly pluralistic world the Independent education represents choice and accountability. Thus ensuring security for parents as they invest both financially and emotionally in their children's future. Away from the homogeneity and bureaucracy, foisted upon our colleagues in the maintained, surely Independent schools' survival is based on the opportunity to embrace new trends in Teaching and Learning whilst retaining the values which are being eroded.

Independent school 'will reopen'

2006-04-20T21:17:00.000Z

BBC NEWS | England | Southern Counties | Independent school 'will reopen'

Has anyone been following this?

Trying Something Out

2006-04-18T16:59:00.000Z

View this clip on Vimeo

Brown sets private schools target

2006-03-28T19:46:00.000Z

I meant to put this up on the blog a week ago but you know how it is...

BBC NEWS | Education | Brown sets private schools target

This is a return to a theme that I have run throughout this weblog: the attempt to close the percieved gap between state a private schools.

On the one hand there is the gap in funding to consider. Independent schools are meant to be "richer" than our colleagues in the state sector. Perhaps true, but I am certain you can name schools whose budgets are as tight as the village primary school at which I am a governor. However, state schools aren't working with many of the business-related pressures under which independent schools operate.

On the other hand is the claim that funding makes independent schools "better". Again I know educators, working in state schools, whose passion, creativity and desire to effect change in pupils lives is greater than I could ever hope to emulate. Yet we are told that more money would make better schools. What will make better schools, be they state or independent, is the freedom to teach creatively and allow pupils to learn in a way that is engaging and challenging.

Throw all the money you like at schools, school improvement will only occur with independent thinking not independent funding

4x4 or against?

2006-03-28T19:15:00.000Z

One to take note of! Where do you stand?

BBC NEWS | Magazine | 4x4 or against?

Spending on books dwarfed by ICT

2006-02-28T10:24:00.000Z

BBC NEWS | Education | Spending on books dwarfed by ICT

We are living in an age of technological development which, at present, is often lead by our pupils. As schools we fall behind what the children themselves are able to achieve with ICT. Therefore schools get caught up spending money on shiny new toys to entertain their pupils. In my experience this does not work.

Pupils need access to ICT, absolutely, however far more important is the opportunity to utilse the communication possibilities in ICT! They therefore need to know how and why communication works and this includes books! Without the love of reading children will not be able to express themselves creatively and all the technology in the world is not going to help.

University Idol

2006-02-28T10:15:00.000Z

Reading through this article, BBC NEWS | Education | 'Talent search' plan under attack, I can't help but think that primary schools are yet again being asked to put their pupils in the spotlight. As primary/early secondary educators our natural inclination, I believe, is to allow children to flourish free from the pressures that we all know they will be under further along in the academic and professional careers.

The General Secretary of the Association of School & College Leaders, John Dunford:

"Key stage 2 tests should not be used for this purpose [to register children with the National Academy for Gifted & talented Youth]. These are tests for attainment, not potential.
"That is why most secondary schools re-test children on entry at 11 - to establish their potential."

He said it would put yet more pressure on children whose test results were already used to grade their achievement, diagnose their learning problems, pay their teachers and put their schools into league tables.

In our sector we know that children are placed under far more pressure than their peers in maintained schools. So as school leaders we are charged with ensuring a breadth of exprience to offset this. Our children are growing up fast enough without further pressure to perform bing place on their young shoulders.

EducationGuardian.co.uk | Schools special reports | Slap on wrist for private schools in fees cartel

2006-02-28T09:45:00.000Z

Thought you may want the update, in case you missed it:

EducationGuardian.co.uk | Schools special reports | Slap on wrist for private schools in fees cartel

'Men cleverer than women' claim

2006-01-30T22:09:00.000Z

BBC NEWS | Education | 'Men cleverer than women' claim

Claim? Some people (not me) would say this was an undisputed fact!!

Worth reading, actually, especially when considered in relation to theories such as Howard Gardener's Mutiple Intelligences. Naturally, we are all different, with varied skills and aptitudes. Who can tell what "cleverness" is?

Music 'as vital as the three Rs'

2006-01-30T21:55:00.000Z

BBC NEWS | Education | Music 'as vital as the three Rs'

Breadth & balance in the curriculum?

In my experience, of all the colleagues that have to continually "fight their corner", even in the independent sector, its the music teachers that seem to to do battle the most. So here, at last, is some support for them.

Its also a timely reminder that "adding value" to our children's education is something that, as school leaders, we have to keep uppermost in our minds.

You sure you want this job?

2005-12-30T10:00:00.000Z

As we approach the 1st anniversary of our Aspiring Heads weblog, a salutary reminder of what we're letting ourselves in for!

Google Fight : Ted Wragg VS Chris Woodhead

2005-12-13T19:54:00.000Z

A little festive fun.

Try a google fight: pit two opposing subjects (animate or inanimate) against each other and let them fight it out as to who has the most references on google! Total nonsense, of course!

Try these for a start...

This first one's not for the squeamish
Ted Wragg v. Chris Woodhead

This one got me worried
Tony Blair v. David Cameron

And then...
Ruth Kelly v. Andrew Adonis

EducationGuardian.co.uk | Schools special reports | Top 50 independent schools found guilty of price-fixing to push up fees

2005-11-13T19:42:00.000Z

Well, the judgement is in!

Worth having a read, if you've only been following this story intermittently. The BBC, also have a report as well as a further article on refunds of fees. This article puts the ISC's view in this way:

The body, which represents 1,000 public schools, said there was evidence that sharing information kept fees down rather than inflating them.
Its general secretary, Jonathan Shephard, said: "Schools have no motive to raise more money than they need.

"Any money raised from fees has to be spent on the children and the schools so any extra money might be spent on better food or another brick for the gym."

From our point of view I feel that this is yet another aspect of our "image" that we will have challenged in years to come. Best to prepare your defence now!

BBC NEWS | Education | Education champion Ted Wragg dies

2005-11-10T22:31:00.000Z

Sad news. An inspirng educator who made you feel proud to be a part of our profession. No matter which sector you teach in Ted Wragg makes you want to do the best that you can for the children in your care. He was a true champion of both children and those comitted to teaching them.

EducationGuardian.co.uk | News crumb | Mixed-ability classes just as effective, study finds

2005-11-03T20:25:00.000Z

EducationGuardian.co.uk | News crumb | Mixed-ability classes just as effective, study finds

EducationGuardian.co.uk | TEFL | Organic learning

2005-11-03T20:22:00.000Z

I know its all about TEFL, but it is very stimulating when placed in the context of what could be in our English classrooms.
EducationGuardian.co.uk | TEFL | Organic learning

EducationGuardian.co.uk | Schools special reports | It's different for boys

2005-11-03T20:12:00.000Z

EducationGuardian.co.uk | Schools special reports | It's different for boys

Self-esteem is the key, I believe, to unlocking achievement in boys.

AskPhilosophers

2005-11-03T19:57:00.001Z

Finally! literally the answer to everything!

EducationGuardian.co.uk | Schools | Parents in charge of schools will opt for social selection

2005-10-27T17:51:00.000Z

EducationGuardian.co.uk | Schools | Parents in charge of schools will opt for social selection

Simon Jenkins' article points to the potential pitfalls in the government's White Paper. Perhaps, after all, Independent Schools ned not fear any form of competition.

EducationGuardian.co.uk | Schools special reports | Private firms poised to run state schools after reform

2005-10-27T15:47:00.000Z

The Wolves are at the door!

The ink is not even dry on the White Paper. Already they are lining up to put the government's plans in motion.

EducationGuardian.co.uk | Schools special reports | Lib Dems get discipline ideas from Harry Potter

2005-09-22T11:19:00.000Z

In an irregular feature on this weblog entitled "I told you so!" I offer for your perusal the above article click on the title to go to the article).

Ed Davey, Lib Dem spokesman on education says:

"Smaller class sizes, a more engaging curriculum and better pastoral care were also vital to improving behaviour."

So we are doing something right!

Revealed: the preps trailing state rivals - Sunday Times - Times Online

2005-09-13T13:33:00.000Z

In case you haven't seen this, here is a link to the Sunday Times "piece" on Independent Schools' KS2 SATs results. IAPS schools have had the KS2 results "uncovered" from the past 3 years through the freedom of information act.

So what do you think? Should we be ranked on academic performance? Would this be of benefit to prospective parents? Do you agree with Jonathon Brough?

The league is headed by City of London school for girls, where fees are £10,584 a year. Jonathan Brough, head of its preparatory department, was proud of his school’s performance. “We are not a hothouse. I wouldn’t sacrifice the happiness of the children to get that position,” he said. “We are giving a well-rounded education and we don’t teach to test.”

What does this mean for the future of the National Curriculum in Independent Schools? Are we to be hauled up in the Sunday Times each year to be compared to our colleagues in the maintained sector? Doesn't that miss the point of what an Independent school is, regardless of the curriculum you apply or tests you take?

As John Morris says in the article: “Our members do not regard these tests as an objective measure of the value of schools or an appropriate measure of the achievement of children. League tables based on such figures are facile.”

What do you think?

Wet combing best to rid head lice

2005-08-24T14:57:00.000Z

Thought I might kick the new school year off with something that I'm sure you all must have read while on you hols! As you know this weblog contians information crucial for all aspiring heads regardless of infestation...

BBC NEWS | Health | Wet combing best to rid head lice

Today-in-History PAGE of SCOPE SYSTEMS.

2005-07-05T16:55:00.000Z

A rather nifty little site for those of us who like a bit of trivia:

Today-in-History: July 5th

Obviously apart from the British feeling rather disappointed with last night's performance
- a rather arrogant and misguided leadership, they'd spent piles of cash on the best prepared team ever to leave these shores to do battle against a buch of colonials (no, not the Lions!). You'd be surprised at waht you might find...

Crumbs! It must be the end of term!

Parents 'ruining school sports day'

2005-07-05T16:45:00.000Z

Well I'll be...

Parents 'ruining school sports day'

Who'd have thought it? Typical independent school mentality! Tut! Tut! We ought to be ashamed!

Clive Astler, Editor of Country Life: "Nowadays, some parents have a highly
competitive attitude to life and are neurotic about their children succeeding at
everything they attempt. It is spoiling the whole thing."

Based on this statement I would like to ask you all the following question:

Would we have won the battle of Waterloo if they'd banned the parents' race from the playing fields of Eton in 1805?

Answers on the usual postage stamp, please...

Steiner schools 'could help all'

2005-06-30T16:48:00.000Z

How long will it take for the world to catch up?

On the semi-recurrent theme of "Independent Means Independent" I heard an item on the radio, of which this is the BBC News article:

BBC NEWS UK Education Steiner schools 'could help all'

It is heartening to realise, even with the constraints of our schools as a business enterprise, that our colleagues within the diverse world of Independent schools can continue to work for positive change, influencing mainstream views of education.

Good on you Rudolf!

Skype - The whole world can talk for free.

2005-06-25T17:43:00.000Z

Skype

As a committed 21st century online technology lover I have to stay true to the altruistic philosophy of weblogging and share some amazing technologies. You may have been reading about some of these, in particular Skype. This is a way of making "phone" calls to computers or even to "traditional" phone lines or mobiles. Just read the site & I'm certain that you'd be intrigued enough to give it a try. I'm going to play around with it - so if any one would like to experiment also, just drop a comment on the blog & let me know.

The other "killer application" to emerge is the phenomenon of Podcasting. If you are not aware, this is a method of listening to a wide range of "radio" programmes. Except its not radio, its a way of downloading mp3 (digital audio) files on to your computer and/or iPod - hence the term. What this means is that you can listen to any podcasting broadcaster anytime you want. Yes, this means never having to listen to Terry Wogan in the morning again! No, you can listen to him any time, day or night! Although I don't actually think Tel & the BBC are quite there with podcasting yet, although they are not far off! Why is this worth mentioning. Well, imagine being able to broadcast school news to your community, the children running there own radio station with bulletins about activities, sports, late braking news (cricket club cancelled, etc.), even performances by the school choir! Try this link to Willowcast as an example. Its a 4th & 5th Grade podcast from the US. I personally think it is very, very cool. Getting our pupils to speak to the world? Amazing! It is vey new but seems to have taken off at one heck of a rate. As with skype, if anyone wants to experiment just drop me a line.

Here are some links worth a visit:

Educational Podcast Directory

Podcasting Software

Lessons in good manners

2005-06-07T07:07:00.000Z

As we all know, we're at least 20 years behind the Americans...

BBC NEWS | World | Americas | Lessons in good manners

What Is He Up To Now?

2005-06-02T12:35:00.000Z

Hmmm...

A weekly trawl through the Headlines brings this up...

Woodhead Accused of Poaching Pupils For Private Schools

...How is this going to affect people's opinion of the Independent sector?

Then I read this:

He courted controversy two weeks ago when he suggested private schools should refuse to work with struggling state secondary schools. Partnerships between the two sectors were just "propping up a failed system which should be left to fail", he added.

Now, I recall the articles about these comments and I cannot help but think that this attitude is destroying any kind of opportunity for mutual understanding and sharing of knowledge between the two sectors.

Cognita Schools

Who's In Charge?

2005-05-28T08:43:00.000Z

Just a little piece to think about...

BBC NEWS | Education | Parents' revolt at private school

We all know the realtionships that exist between Heads, parents & governing bodies. A dynamic "tension" that ought to have the best interests of the community at heart. But the question that, to me, arises from this piece is: who knows what's best for the school? Because one can cite cases where the parents would not be so ready to support a Head if they were not happy with the school.

Answers on a postage stamp please...(and if you are a governor feel free to support your head!)

Current vacancies

2005-05-18T10:29:00.000Z

From the Education Guardian this week...

I know we're aspiring to headship...but just a chance to reflect on your current role!

Current vacancies

Which of these applies to you!?

EducationGuardian.co.uk | News crumb | Fall in private pupils as fees rise

2005-05-11T10:06:00.000Z

Fall in private pupils as fees rise

Well, here is an item for us Aspiring Heads to make us sit up & take notice! The article outlines a fall in pupil numbers at independent schools. The drop is small (o.6%), follows 9 years growth and relates, in the main, to pupils originating from outside the EU. However, I feel the most salient point is this:

"The ISC said the overall dip was linked to a fall in children in the population at large, and pointed out that state schools saw a greater drop."

For future managers of an organisation that has to make both educational and business sense, this would seem to be our biggest challenge. Apart from needing to ensure value in our provision when we are having to continually ask parents to dig deeper, the demographic question is clear: where are the children going to come from?

You might want to check out some stats from National Statistics Online.

In fact, a quick check through the data suggests a fall from 14% to 11.9% over the next 20 years!

What do you feel as the way forward in the next 10 years? Have you any solutions?

Drop your comments via the link below.

A civilising subject

2005-04-16T07:31:00.000Z

Just thinking...

Telegraph | Education | A civilising subject for teenagers

In reading around "Citizenship" (I don't particularly like the naming of this as a "subject") I have found lots of very positive examples of its value within the curriculum. This article from the Telegraph its just one of many and typifies how interested children are in finding answers to the questions they have about the world around them. It is also interesting to have a "true-blue Tory" writing so effusively about a liberal approach to education!

I believe that the Citizenship approach - I cannot, after studying Education for Sustainability for my Masters, bring myself to call Citizenship a subject, its more than that - when applied to schools, provides a great challenge for school leaders. However it is a challenge that, addressed in the right way, can only be a force for good.

Take this article for example:

It juxtaposes two concepts common in schools that are "doing" Citizenship: healthy eating and the condition of our fellow humans in other parts of the world. It is a wake-up call to read Tergat's article, particularly in light of the material well-being within our sector of education. And it reinforces just what a responsibility, I feel, school leaders have to ensure that their communities are aware of their rights and responsibilities. An effective programme of Citizenship Education across the curriculum and community would encourage pupils, staff and parents to make decisions in their lives based on an elightened and thoughtful regard for themselves and others.

As Tergat says:
"Over 100 million children do not attend school and 300 million are chronically hungry. With a collective commitment to school feeding, the international community could help to reduce these numbers quickly. Doesn't every child deserve the chance to achieve his or her dreams?"

I believe our children deserve the same opportunity to achieve their dreams. However we also have the responsibility to educate them to be aware of what they can do to be active and effective participants in their world as they grow up. It is, therefore, a school management issue. How are we to educate for future responsibility? My Year 6 classes or my 1W RE form are not simply the 6- or 11-year-olds in front of me now. They are the voting 20-somethings or parents with purchasing power in 10 or 20 years time. So these future-adults must be able to participate in an environment which instills core values of kindness, care, humility and self-confidence. Surely school management issues and not merely to be stuffed away as a subject within the curriculum?

As I said...just thinking! I wake up too early on Saturday mornings!

Further Thoughts on Leadership Qualification

2005-03-03T20:59:00.000Z

As a member of NAHT I get the mailing package that contains various things to read and of course there is very little time to do that effectively. However, I caught sight of NAHT's online learning website. After a quick flick through its pages it became clear that it is a very comprehensive set of materials which stimulate thought and facilitate Continuing Professional Development. For all staff.

This seems like a very innovative package. One that may solve some issues that schools have in generating interest in CPD amongst their staff. I'm discussing with my Head a review of our policy on CPD and this may be one thing to consider. We want to ensure that all our colleagues are encouraged to take part in some form of professional development. What form this encouragement takes is something on which I would welcome some input. What is your view of CPD?

The First Application

2005-02-24T20:45:00.000Z

Well I've managed it. The first application is in & I imagine a few of us may be looking at the same position. So no giving away where it is! Anyway, the experience was only a little less nerve-wracking than I thought. Actually there always seems to be a long lead-in time for many of these positions so deadlines are fairly generous.

What tied me up in knots was the purpleness of my prose! One of my friends who looked over my letter reproached me for using to much "treacle". "You floury poof" were his exact words!!! Another, looking at the same letter, thought it seemed, with some tweaking, pretty strong! Both, by the way, are Heads...So what do I do? Stay up late pouring over the minutiae with my wife the night before the deadline is what! Gosh, I married a patient woman!

So what about you? What advice have you had as far as purple-shaded prose is concerned? Have you been advised to be concise & business-like? Or has it been suggested that you write in an authoratative manner, outling your experience & philosophy as if your life depended on it?!?

I know, that by the time I finished the application that night, each time I tried to re-read it the thing sounded less & less convincing! It just had to go into the post & from there into the lap of the gods (or rather governors!).

Let us know your dilemmas (post to "Dear Aunty IAPS"!)

Babs Knight

2005-02-23T11:53:00.000Z

Just thought it would be nice to say hi to everyone and to thank Neil for setting up this link.
Nothing new in the job situation for me but still learning lots where I am.
best wishes
Babs - the Welsh gal !

Schooling beyond the curriculum

2005-02-17T10:46:00.000Z

BBC NEWS | Education | Schooling beyond the curriculum

Food for thought.

An article here from the BBC News online concerning the recent issues of school trips and school dinners. For me this relates to what we are as Independent Schools. With the behavioural and financial stability (by and large!) that our establishments and their families possess do we not have a greater responsibility to address the implications of developing more "active and socially aware citizens"?

As leaders in our schools we are in a very strong position to stress to our colleagues and communities the importance of embedding the values and thinking skills esential for our children as they grow and leave us to enter our increasingly pluralist society. Is this not how a Preparatory School is defined?

If you have any comments just login & click on the comment link below.

Antarctic Explorers: Ernest Shackleton

2005-02-08T17:56:00.000Z

Ernest Shackleton

I hope I'm not developing a weird obsession about Shackleton. Anyway, just to keep the theme going for a bit longer the link above is to a fairly extensive online bio of the man and his explorations.

Professional Development Reading List: Number 1

2005-02-06T19:42:00.000Z

Shackleton's Way: Leadership Lessons from the Great Antarctic Explorer

Thought this might tickle you! Remember that this book was mentioned by Andy Duff? Well, in keeping with the spirit of this weblog I felt we all might welcome the chance to purchase the above tome. The links will take you to Amazon (where else?).

I must say that discussion at Tewkesbury piqued my interest and, not wishing to be a johnny-come-lately, I all also purchased a copy of "Edurance" by Alfred Lansing to fill in the gaps (or rather cavernous expanses!) in my personal knowledge of British Antarctic exploration in the early 20th century! You never know, it may come in useful during a lull in an interview.

Get Blogging!

2005-02-02T17:26:00.000Z

Thanks to everyone who has joined in this weblog so far. Have a go at writing something, even if its to say hello & let us know how you're getting on.

Independent Schools Inspectorate

2005-01-29T17:16:00.000Z

So. It was discussed at our weekend. Everyone knows one (or more, probably!). But is it the way forward in our professional development?

Becoming an ISI inspector seems to be, if not a step, then at least a landing on the stairway to headship! It would be of enormous interest if those of you that have been through the process could share your experiences on our weblog.

Does the process enrich your practice as an educator?
Does it alter or clarify your personal vision of school management?
Can it be worthwhile or is it better to spend your time & money on other ways of training for management?

Don't be shy, share!

Blogging and NPQH

2005-01-29T17:13:00.000Z

I'm a complete blogging virgin, so this is my first posting. Thanks, Neil, for setting this up.
The feel of the thing is very similar to my on line NPQH work, where a huge amount of the course is done on the web. The whole ncsl site is packed with stuff and, as those on NPQH will I'm sure agree, most of it is excellent. (www.ncsl.org.uk). During the course one is expected to post a lot of information on the site and it's really helpful to know that you can post a question or a cry for help and know that it will be answered.
In my previous incarnation as a Head of IT, I used the satips email list a lot. If you haven't been to satips.com I suggest that you take a look. The more that use it, the better will get.
Let's hope that this blog will prove to be just as useful if not more so.

The Crest of a Wave

2005-01-23T15:16:00.000Z

BBC NEWS | Education | Academics give lessons on blogs

This link reinforces the importance and potential of weblogs in education. Blogs are not the preserve of those who have too much to say. They are a way of getting our students to start talking!

Let us know what you think.

BETT Show 2005

2005-01-14T14:38:00.000Z

A quick note live from the BETT show at London's Olympia. You see the wonderful thing about weblogging is that you can do it from any web browser anywhere!

The show is, as usual, a cornucopia of ICT solutions for schools for "toys" for every situation from managing dinner money to report writing! Its all far too bewildering an array of material!

Any way to give myself focus I have come to look specifically at Report Writing Software. When these pages finally become general knowledge amonst us I would be very interested to find out what format the rest of us use when writing reports. How many are electronic? How many handwritten?

At Berkhamsted we are slowly moving towards the typed report, hence the interest in software to help us. Has anyone got strong views (or any view, for that matter) about how they feel report writing should be carried out?

Neil

Aspiring Heads 2005

2005-01-11T22:21:00.000Z

Welcome to the weblog for the 2005 Aspiring Heads Conference. After the conference it became very clear that a lot of us would like to keep in touch and the weblog would be an excellent way to do that.

If you are not familiar with weblogging and its potential then first have a look at this link. Posting to the weblog is just like using MS Word but you are using it in the browser & publishing live on the web!

If you have any other questions then just send me an email.

All the best & happy blogging!

Neil