Rethinking Latin
5 min read It's time to stop seeing Latin as a 'dead language', argues Dominic Hodgkinson, Head of Classics at Dauntsey’s School, and instead see it as a humanity that can enhance our understanding of the world today.
curriculum
Great expeditions
5 min read Many parents look back on the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme with fond memories of expeditions beset by mishaps. As society emerges from the pandemic, the unique and very valuable skills DofE teaches pupils have never been more important.
Reforming GCSE
5 min read Much has changed since the 1980s when GCSEs were first introduced. Despite various reforms, some Heads feel it's time for more radical change. Attain's Editor talked to Sarah Fletcher, High Mistress of St Paul's Girls' School and Stephen Jones, Warden of St Edward's School in Oxford.
Putting the Arts into STEM
5 min read Schools are embracing the concept of STEAM – putting the arts into science, technology, engineering and maths. Attain's Editor, Matthew Smith, talked to Fionnuala Kennedy and Claire Boyd of Wimbledon High School GDST to find out more.
Exam uncertainty
5 min read Nobody could have predicted the impact the pandemic would have on exams. Attain's Editor, Matthew Smith, talked to two senior school Heads – Emma Taylor of Dean Close and James Dahl of Wellington College – to understand their hopes and concerns.
Moving the classroom outside
5 min read It's time to rethink our classroom environments, argues Matthew Bryan of Longacre. The skills identified for the future – problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, people management and coordinating with others – are best developed outdoors.
Learning about our brains
An understanding of how our brains function reveals the need to approach learning in the right way. James Barnes of the PSB explains why strong 'executive function skills' can make all the difference.
Don't overlook the library
Children have vivid imaginations and there is nothing like reading and becoming aware of other people, worlds and circumstances. Vivienne Durham explains why the school library should be at the heart of every good school.
The love of languages
Too often, learning a language is seen in a utilitarian way rather than enjoying it for the experience. James Priory argues this traditional view on language learning puts value above cultural experience.
The importance of play
James Priory investigates the role of play and how it offers the chance to be spontaneous, to express oneself, to solve problems, to see the world and oneself differently.
The importance of creativity
For too long, creative subjects have been viewed as 'soft' options. Victoria Rose and Alun Pickford of Dauntsey's explain why there needs to be much greater understanding and investment in creativity.
The risks of tutoring
There is a significant risk attached to tutoring which any parent considering the options would be wise to remember. Christopher King looks at the pros and cons of employing a tutor for your child.
The super-curriculum
As pupils progress, the tendency to specialise should always be balanced with ensuring breadth of study. James Priory, Headmaster of Tonbridge, examines how 'super-curriculums' can help.
Going beyond exams
We live in challenging times which have inevitably had an impact on education. No longer is examination success the passport to a successful and fulfilling life – it's more complex than that, as James Barnes explains.
What is English?
English belongs to everyone. English is everything and nothing. Tim Hands explains it is not just a language, with a magnificent literature written in it, but an evolving construct which draws the globe together.
Time for a school dog?
Specially trained school dogs can have a hugely positive impact on a prep school community. Mark Hammond, Head of Skippers Hill Manor Prep, explains the benefits.
Variety and choice
One of the often overlooked benefits of a prep school is that they have the freedom to select their own curriculum. Christopher King highlights why curriculum freedom is so important for prep schools.
News as homework
One of the best ways to improve a child's general knowledge of the world is to read a newspaper, says Jane Lunnon, Head of Wimbledon High School GDST. So why not set newspapers as homework?
Engineering the future
Engineering has never been regarded as a subject applicable for prep school age children but, as Nigel Helliwell, Headmaster of St Faith's in Cambridge explains, the benefits for pupils are enormous.
Generational learning
Learning across the generations offers huge benefits for pupils and the elderly. Rachel Whiting, Head of Prep at The Kingsley School, looks at the lessons we can all learn from talking to other generations.
D Girls (7 - 18), Hampton
D Coed (7 - 18), Bedfordshire
D B Girls (11 - 18), Gloucestershire
D B Coed (3 - 18), Kent
D B Coed (7 - 18), Surrey