Exemplary Educators: Meet the Headteachers leading the way

In our recent parent and student survey, pastoral care ranked the most valued aspect of our school life. It was wonderful to see, and it echoes what we, as staff members feel, that strong pastoral care is the foundational building block of any good school.

At the heart of our approach is a belief in collective responsibility. We understand that the wellbeing of our students is a responsibility that extends beyond just a few - it is the duty of every member of our community.

I am fortunate to have a dedicated team that includes highly trained heads and assistant heads of year, specialised SEND staff, and an experienced nursing and counselling team. We work to ensure that every student feels heard, valued and supported.

To extend our efforts, we provide half-termly pastoral CPD, ensuring staff have the skills and confidence to support student wellbeing. We also prioritise parent engagement, recognising the importance of a strong partnership between school and home. Through our collaboration with Tooled Up Education and our Parenting in Partnership initiative, we provide resources, including online materials, talks and events to support all aspects of family life.

I am proud that our pastoral approach includes everyone, fostering an environment where students grow into confident, compassionate and happy young women, paving the way for success in all areas of their lives.

Redmaids' High School

Melissa Stimson, Head of Pastoral

Westbury Road, Westbury on Trym, Bristol, BS9 3AW

01179 622641

www.redmaidshigh.co.uk

Kingswood School

I've previously written about the opportunities for new beginnings that the start of a September school term can bring, and the importance of throwing yourself in the life of that new opportunity, while ensuring you retain enough time and energy to take stock of what you are learning.

Now that I am a couple of months into my new role as deputy head and vice principal of Kingswood School in Bath, I can proudly say that I have heeded my own advice and have thrown myself into life at Kingswood. It's fair to say that as with all schools, the vibrant and fast-paced environment can at times feel all encompassing, but what I have found here is that the warm and welcoming community has allowed me and my family to feel integrated from day one.

And that's as true for a new joining pupil as it is for a deputy head. Having spoken with pupils who joined alongside me in September, I understand how daunting it can feel starting somewhere new, but our outstanding pastoral support and house tutor system has ensured that they feel integrated and part of the school community. Now it's time to really get stuck into everything a Kingswood education has to offer and explore the opportunities and experiences available for students and staff alike.

Kingswood School

Mat Chataway, Vice Principal

Lansdown Road, Bath, BA1 5RG

01225 734200

www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk

The Downs Preparatory School

As someone who has had the privilege of teaching in every variation of school, from co-ed and single sex to state and independent, I've gained a rich understanding of what truly makes a school thrive. This breadth of experience has allowed me to draw from the best of each environment to foster a truly nurturing and inclusive atmosphere here at The Downs.

At the heart of our school is community, and it's a value I hold dear. My passion is to create a school where every child is known, valued, and supported, and where parents feel directly involved in their child's journey. I'm fortunate to be so involved in the daily life of our school, not just through my role but also with my husband Alex, who works alongside me here. Together, we're a team both at home and at school, dedicated to creating a safe, thriving, and supportive space for our students.

I believe in a curriculum that prepares our students for the demands of the 21st century while never losing sight of the values that have long defined The Downs. Nurturing critical thinkers, encouraging creativity, and building resilience are at the heart of what we do. Every day, I'm proud to lead a school that blends tradition with innovation, ensuring our students are well-prepared for the future ahead.

The Downs Preparatory School

Debbie Isaachsen

Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1PF

01275 852008

office@thedownsschool.co.uk

www.thedowns.school

Blundell's School

(Image: Blundell's School) I am now in my seventh year as head of Blundell's, and we have seen much change over that period. The pandemic was a challenge, but in many ways, it allowed us to accelerate some of the processes we had already been implementing. We believe in intelligent education. Education that is thoughtful and considered, and that focuses on processes rooted in research and experience.

Every term I begin the first assembly with two mantras: the first is 'grades matter, but character matters more', and the second is 'the best way to show gratitude for the opportunity you have is by working hard'. Over time, the repetition of those messages seems to have taken root and flourished, and Blundellians recognise that hard work and endeavour are fundamental to success. As an educator there is nothing more exciting than seeing educational philosophies converted to a lived positive experience for pupils.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being the head of a school like Blundell's, is that you get to influence and affect the culture of learning and ultimately, if you get it right, learning that leads to successful outcomes for pupils. Ultimately, that is what gets me out of bed in the morning; the opportunity to create an environment in which children can flourish.

Blundell's School

Bart Wielenga

Tiverton, Devon, EX16 4NA

01884 252543

prep@blundells.org

www.blundells.org