Reflections Nursery on child-led learning
Reflections Nursery Headteacher Liz Brown discusses the history and guiding philosophy of its Reggio Emilia approach to Early Years educationUnlike Montessori, the Reggio Emilia approach is not well known in the UK. Pioneered in Emilia Romagna, northern Italy immediately after World War II, it is now gaining popularity worldwide.Reflections Nursery and Small School is an early adopter – one…
The benefits of reading aloud
The benefits of taking the time to read to young children and encourage the habit independently are lifelong and profound. This is why reading to young children is so importantHow much time do you get to curl up with a book and switch off from the world for a bit? With our busy schedules and constant demands of work and life, this might seem to be an attractive resolution for a new year.…
The Downs Malvern / Building bright futures
The Downs Malvern Headmaster Andy Nuttall on the school's long track record of providing a rounded education, with plenty of stretch and challenge – and fun – to prepare children for future academic and life successCan you explain more about the history of The Downs Malvern and its development over the years?Our school was founded in 1900 as a Quaker school for boys. Evolving over time,…
Board rules – why board games are good news
Gaming may be in, but old-school board games are having a renaissance too. Absolutely Education picks some new arrivals and old favouritesJust when we thought the world had gone entirely digital, games of the old-fashioned board and dice, chips and pieces are having a moment. You might almost suspect a renaissance. These activities that used to while away a rainy day, dominate Christmas…
Let’s dance – four schools on why this is a super sport
Dance challenges body and mind, making it both a great exercise and a wonderful creative outlet. We speak to four schools to find out how their pupils benefitDance has not been a traditional offer among the UK's schools, but as they increasingly look for alternatives to the traditional team and individual sports in order to enthuse all their young people, it is coming to the fore. One reason…
60 Seconds With Andrew Hammond, Head of Hall School Wimbledon
Andrew Hammond, Headmaster of Hall School Wimbledon (HSW), discusses his background and educational approachWhat is your background?I have worked in education for 25 years and have served in both the independent and maintained sectors. My roles have included Headteacher, Deputy Head, Director of Studies, Housemaster, Head of English and class teacher. I have also served as a Common…
King Edward’s Witley continues to invest in specialist career guidance
Moira Davies, a highly experienced career coach and career development advisor, has been appointed Head of Careers and Higher Education at King Edward’s Witley.Moira Davies graduated with a Law degree from the University of Kent and qualified as a solicitor working at a top 10 legal firm in London. She lived overseas for 17 years during which time she retrained as a French teacher, working…
School partnerships – adding value on all sides
School partnerships bring rewards on all sides, with activities ranging from volunteering to student-led teaching of younger pupils. Absolutely Education speaks to four schools to find out moreTonbridge School activities include a partnership with a local primary and a Tonbridge Mentors programmeTonbridge SchoolTonbridge School runs a Learning Mentor Programme, working in partnership…
Why all girls’ schools still outshine co-ed education for young women
Research has consistently suggested that girls perform better academically in single sex schools. However, the case for co-educational schooling has become ever more compelling in recent years. In order to prove that they still come out on top, girls' schools have shifted their emphasis to focus not only on fostering academic excellence, but also providing an environment where young women can…
Frances King on the Danish approach to education
The former head of Mill Hill, Roedean and Heathfield Frances King on the Danish approach to education“I hope you are all doing great and spreading KAOS everywhere.” This was the greeting sent by course creator Simon Kavanagh to the alumni of the three-day workshop I attended this spring which advertised itself as aiming to disrupt the thinking of those attending. The workshop was run by…