Summary

This episode of the HMC Podcast explores the importance of partnerships in education, particularly through the lens of the Coastal Schools Partnership. The discussion features insights from teachers and pupils about the collaborative projects that enrich learning experiences, strengthen community ties, and promote environmental awareness. It underscores the value of equal partnerships between schools, the role of key individuals in creating opportunities, and the positive impact on pupil engagement and teacher development.

Takeaways

• The Coastal Schools Partnership has been running for 10 years, strengthening collaboration among schools.
• The proximity of schools enhances accessibility and responsiveness within partnerships.
• Partnerships are founded on equality, with a focus on achieving the best outcomes for pupils.
• Collaboration with local authorities broadens the scope of project opportunities.
• Pupils gain from a range of perspectives through inter-school activities.
• Teachers exchange best practice and resources through collaborative work.
• Partnerships offer distinctive opportunities for professional development.
• Community events help pupils build confidence and develop social skills.
• Environmental projects encourage awareness and a sense of responsibility among young people.
• Strong leadership is essential to sustain successful partnerships.

Links online

Main website: www.hmc.org.uk

Learn more about the Coastal Schools Partnership here.

Find out more about school partnerships on the Schools Together website here.

This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency

Summary

In this episode of the HMC podcast, Tom Lawson interviews Tim Dalton about Lumina, a program designed to support looked after children in their education. The conversation explores the challenges faced by these vulnerable young people, the impact of partnerships with local authorities, and the innovative adaptations made during the COVID-19 pandemic. Tim shares insights on measuring academic progress, safeguarding, and the importance of fostering strong relationships between tutors and students. The episode also highlights success stories, the role of foster parents, and a call to action for HMC heads to support the initiative.

Takeaways

• Lumina aims to support looked after children academically and socially.
• Looked after children face significant educational challenges and poor outcomes.
• Partnerships with local authorities are crucial for Lumina's success.
• COVID-19 prompted the development of an online tuition program.
• Measurable impact is assessed through academic progress and results.
• Safeguarding is a key consideration in tutor-student relationships.
• Success stories demonstrate the transformative power of education.
• Addressing the digital divide is essential for equitable access to education.
• Building strong relationships with local authorities is vital for program sustainability.
• Foster parents play a critical role in supporting looked after children's education.

Links online

Main website: www.hmc.org.uk

Tim Dalton email: tmd@harrowschool.org.uk

Lumina: www.lumina.org.uk

This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency

Summary

In this conversation, Daisy discusses her daily work in education, focusing on curriculum changes in the UK, the role of comparative judgment assessments, and the integration of AI in educational practices. She emphasises the importance of balancing traditional assessments with innovative methods to enhance student learning and teacher feedback. The conversation also touches on the complexities of educational assessment and the need for diverse approaches to meet various educational goals.

Takeaways

• Curriculum change in the UK is influenced by various stakeholders.
• Comparative judgment assessments offer a reliable way to evaluate writing.
• AI can assist in the assessment process, enhancing teacher feedback.
• The integration of AI in education is still developing and requires careful consideration.
• Exams can support a broader vision of learning and enrichment.
• Different assessments are needed for different educational purposes.
• Cramming is not an effective learning strategy.
• Extrinsic motivation can help foster intrinsic love for learning.
• Reliability in assessment is a complex issue that requires honest discussion. English literature has fallen out of the top 10 A levels.
• Maths is gaining popularity, reflecting changing subject preferences.
• Smartphone usage is negatively impacting reading habits.
• The decline in literature is a global trend, not just local.
• Students prioritise subjects that promise better economic returns.
• Schools can promote reading, but cultural factors play a significant role.
• The crisis of liberal democracy may be linked to the decline of literature.
• Teacher recruitment is increasingly challenging due to competitive job markets.
• Class sizes may not significantly impact educational outcomes as commonly believed.
• AI's role in education raises new myths and challenges.

Links online

Main website: www.hmc.org.uk

This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency