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Heads Unscripted
Simon Gould
23 episodes
6 days ago
A fresh new chapter: introducing Heads Unscripted: Education Uncovered We are giving our podcast a refresh. When we first started, our focus was clear. We invited senior school heads to talk about their schools, their ethos and what life might look like for pupils who joined them. Those conversations have been hugely valuable for many Hurlingham families and others who are exploring senior school options. Over time, though, the conversations have started to widen. We have found ourselves talking less about individual prospectuses and more about leadership, philosophy and the bigger questions facing education today. What should school feel like for children growing up now. How do we lead with purpose in a time of pressure and change. What are the real challenges facing our sector and where might the answers come from. It feels like the right moment for the podcast to evolve too. Our series is now called Heads Unscripted: Education uncovered. The new name reflects the direction we are already travelling in. Heads Unscripted keeps our focus on people who lead, think and influence in education, but it frees us from simply asking heads to talk about their own schools. Education uncovered signals our intention to get under the surface of the issues, ideas and stories that are shaping children’s lives in classrooms today. You will still hear from senior school heads, but you will also hear from prep and primary leaders, researchers, psychologists, policymakers and others who care deeply about where education is heading. We want to unlock some of the challenges our sector is facing, explore what is working, and share those conversations with a wider audience than parents who are just at the senior school decision stage. This is a refresh rather than a complete reboot. The tone will remain open, thoughtful and practical. What changes is the scope. Heads Unscripted: Education uncovered will give us room to explore leadership, wellbeing, curriculum, community, AI, adolescence and more, while keeping the experience of children at the heart of every episode. Thank you for listening so far and for growing with us. We are excited about this next chapter and hope you will continue to join the conversation.
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How To
Education,
Kids & Family,
Education for Kids
RSS
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A fresh new chapter: introducing Heads Unscripted: Education Uncovered We are giving our podcast a refresh. When we first started, our focus was clear. We invited senior school heads to talk about their schools, their ethos and what life might look like for pupils who joined them. Those conversations have been hugely valuable for many Hurlingham families and others who are exploring senior school options. Over time, though, the conversations have started to widen. We have found ourselves talking less about individual prospectuses and more about leadership, philosophy and the bigger questions facing education today. What should school feel like for children growing up now. How do we lead with purpose in a time of pressure and change. What are the real challenges facing our sector and where might the answers come from. It feels like the right moment for the podcast to evolve too. Our series is now called Heads Unscripted: Education uncovered. The new name reflects the direction we are already travelling in. Heads Unscripted keeps our focus on people who lead, think and influence in education, but it frees us from simply asking heads to talk about their own schools. Education uncovered signals our intention to get under the surface of the issues, ideas and stories that are shaping children’s lives in classrooms today. You will still hear from senior school heads, but you will also hear from prep and primary leaders, researchers, psychologists, policymakers and others who care deeply about where education is heading. We want to unlock some of the challenges our sector is facing, explore what is working, and share those conversations with a wider audience than parents who are just at the senior school decision stage. This is a refresh rather than a complete reboot. The tone will remain open, thoughtful and practical. What changes is the scope. Heads Unscripted: Education uncovered will give us room to explore leadership, wellbeing, curriculum, community, AI, adolescence and more, while keeping the experience of children at the heart of every episode. Thank you for listening so far and for growing with us. We are excited about this next chapter and hope you will continue to join the conversation.
Show more...
How To
Education,
Kids & Family,
Education for Kids
Episodes (20/23)
Heads Unscripted
Series 3 - Episode 8 - Epsom College - Mark Lascelles
In this episode Mark Lascelles, the head of Epsom College discusses his experiences and insights gained over his first year at the school. He highlights the importance of school culture, the admissions process, and the need for a holistic education that prepares students for the future. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced by the school, the significance of pupil voice, and the evolving role of technology in education.
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1 week ago
35 minutes 26 seconds

Heads Unscripted
Series 3 - Episode 7 - Francis Holland - Alexandra Haydon
In this conversation with Simon, Alexandra Haydon discusses her experiences and insights as the head of Frances Holland, an all-girls school. She reflects on her own educational journey, the distinctive features of her school, and the importance of relational teaching and psychological safety in fostering a supportive learning environment. Alexandra emphasises the significance of creativity, service, and volunteering in education, as well as the need for a curriculum that connects knowledge to real-world applications. She also addresses the challenges of preparing students for the future and the role of all-girls education in personal development.
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2 weeks ago
44 minutes 16 seconds

Heads Unscripted
Series 3 - Episode 6 - Emanuel - Ravi Kothakota
In this episode of Heads Talks, Simon Gould sits down with Ravi Kothakota, the newly appointed headmaster of Emmanuel School, to explore the transformative journey of leadership and the evolving landscape of schooling. With a focus on academic ambition, wellbeing, and community connection, Khothakota shares his vision for nurturing well-rounded students in a rapidly changing world. The conversation explores innovative group experiences in the admissions process, emphasising the importance of teamwork, empathy, and the learning process over the final outcome. It highlights how these group activities allow students to connect, collaborate, and develop essential skills for their educational journey.
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2 weeks ago
57 minutes

Heads Unscripted
Series 3 - Episode 5 - Radnor House - Amy Cavilla
In this conversation, Amy Cavilla discusses her experiences and insights as the head of Radnor House, touching on the school's ethos, the transition from an all-girls to a co-educational environment, and the importance of community values. She elaborates on the upcoming developments at Kneller Hall, the admissions process, and the innovative curriculum designed to prepare students for the future. The conversation also highlights the significance of pupil voice and wellbeing, as well as the hope for a politically engaged and curious generation.
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3 weeks ago
44 minutes 30 seconds

Heads Unscripted
Series 3 - Episode 4 - Harrodian - James Hooke
In this conversation, James Hook, headmaster of Harrodian School, discusses the distinctive ethos of the school, emphasizing its beautiful setting, strong community, and commitment to both academic excellence and a broad curriculum. He shares insights on how the school supports students during their transition to senior school, fosters a sense of agency and self-efficacy, and prepares them for A-levels and beyond. The conversation also touches on the importance of student wellbeing, mentorship, and the need to rethink traditional processes like the 11 plus exam in light of modern educational challenges.
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1 month ago
35 minutes 1 second

Heads Unscripted
Series 3 - Episode 3 - Surbiton High - Matthew Shoults
In this conversation, Simon Gould speaks with Matthew Shoults, the principal of Surbiton High School, about the evolving role of schools in society, the importance of creating a supportive and psychologically safe environment for students, and the benefits of all-girls education. They discuss the challenges posed by technology, the need for creativity and mindfulness in education, and the significance of student wellbeing. Matthew shares insights on preparing students for future transitions, balancing academic rigor with holistic development, and the impact of assessment systems on student experiences. The conversation concludes with advice for parents on making informed educational choices for their children and a hopeful outlook on the future of education.
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1 month ago
42 minutes 38 seconds

Heads Unscripted
Series 3 - Episode 2 - Whitgift School - Toby Seth
Toby Seth is the newly appointed Headmaster of Whitgift School, one of the UK’s leading independent day and boarding schools for boys aged 10 to 18, based in South Croydon. He joins Whitgift with a track record of thoughtful, values-driven leadership, most recently as Head of Pocklington School in Yorkshire, and previously as Deputy Head at King’s Macclesfield Educated at Cambridge University, Toby brings both academic rigour and a modern, forward-facing mindset to his leadership. He began his teaching career in London, before holding leadership roles in a range of day and boarding environments including Goldolphin and Latymer, Wellington and Dulwich College, giving him a broad perspective on the independent sector. Toby is committed to combining intellectual stretch with strong pastoral care, and is passionate about preparing young people for the realities of a changing world. In this conversation, Toby Seth shares his insights on the school's community, educational approach, and future direction. He emphasises the importance of individual relationships between staff and students, the breadth of opportunities available for all boys, and the school's commitment to maintaining its heritage while embracing innovation and diversity. Seth discusses the support systems in place for students and outlines the school's strategies for preparing boys for future challenges, including the evolving landscape of education and societal expectations.
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1 month ago
25 minutes 48 seconds

Heads Unscripted
Series 3 - Episode 1 - Thomas's College - Will Le Fleming
Today we welcome Will le Fleming who is the Founding Master of Thomas’s College in Richmond, an 11–18 day and boarding school rethinking the secondary journey with a three-year Sixth Form that begins in Year 11 and a hybrid pathway that blends GCSEs with Thomas’s Qualifications; Years 12 and 13 are reshaped to deepen scholarship, independence and readiness for life beyond school. Educated at Eton and Clare College, Cambridge, Will worked as a journalist and author before moving into teaching. He began at St Paul’s School, becoming Undermaster, then served as Deputy Head at St Paul’s Girls’ School. He went on to lead Fulham School as Headmaster and later became Head of The Abbey School in Reading, before his appointment to Thomas’s College. Alongside teaching, he is a published novelist. Will’s leadership blends rigorous scholarship with wellbeing, pupil agency and creative endeavour, fostering confident, curious and principled young people who achieve outstanding outcomes. In this conversation, Simon and Will discuss the innovative educational approaches at Thomas's College, emphasising the importance of a diverse school culture, student agency, and personal development. They explore the challenges of navigating academic choices and assessments, the need for reform in the current education system, and the role of technology in preparing students for an uncertain future. The conversation highlights the significance of kindness, confidence, and hope in education, advocating for a more holistic approach to learning.
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2 months ago
42 minutes 16 seconds

Heads Unscripted
Series 2 - Episode 5 - A special edition
4 months ago
31 minutes 51 seconds

Heads Unscripted
Series 2 - Episode 4 - A conversation with Emma Turner
Our guest today is Emma Turner, a highly respected voice in primary education, known for her deep expertise in curriculum design, teaching and learning, and school leadership. With almost 30 years’ experience in education, she has served as a class teacher, assistant head, deputy head, and co-head. She is a leading advocate for using cognitive science to inform curriculum and pedagogy, and is the author of several influential books including Simplicitus and Be More Toddler. Emma is a Fellow of the Chartered College of Teaching, co-hosts the Mind the Gap podcast and is a contributor to the Excellence Hub, a research-based initiative focused on helping schools create high-quality, interconnected curricula that support long-term learning and pupil wellbeing. In this episode, Emma and Simon discuss the powerful role of early education in shaping how children learn, think, and grow. The conversation draws on cognitive science to highlight how self-efficacy, agency, and independence are best fostered in early childhood. They also reflect on the role of cultural capital, the risks of premature formalisation in primary education, and the vital role of parents in nurturing creativity, language, and confidence at home.
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4 months ago
46 minutes 19 seconds

Heads Unscripted
Series 2 - Episode 3 - A conversation with Claire Boyd
Our guest this episode is Claire Boyd, Head of Glendower Preparatory School, a leading independent girls’ school in Kensington, London. Claire is now in her third headship within the independent sector, and with a background in educational leadership and curriculum development, she brings a wealth of insight into what truly matters in primary education. Claire is a passionate advocate for the transformative power of the Early Years and Key Stage 1, and is keen to champion the role these formative stages play in shaping a child’s lifelong learning journey. She is also a strong proponent of play as a cornerstone of early childhood development—believing it to be essential for lifelong learning and success. During the episode Claire and Simon explore how these formative stages shape children’s emotional and intellectual growth, their learning behaviours, and their emerging sense of agency. They discuss the importance of nurturing environments, the strength of teacher-parent relationships, and how neuroscience can inform thoughtful curriculum design. They also reflect on the balance between academic rigour and the development of human skills, the transformative power of play, and why we must look beyond exam results when defining success in education. Claire offers insightful advice for parents as they navigate their child’s early learning journey.
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5 months ago
49 minutes 29 seconds

Heads Unscripted
Series 2 - Episode 2 - A conversation with Dr Kathy Weston
Dr Kathy Weston is the founder of Tooled Up Education, a renowned speaker, author, and academic whose work bridges the worlds of psychology, education, and parenting. With a background in social science research and a doctorate in education, Kathy has spent her career equipping families and schools with the tools they need to help children thrive. Through her consultancy and digital platform, Tooled Up, she curates and translates the latest research into practical resources that support mental health, resilience, and emotional development. Kathy is a passionate advocate for early intervention and empowering parents and teachers alike to create environments where children can flourish—not just academically, but emotionally and socially. In this episode, Simon and Kathy talk about the essential role of early education in shaping children’s emotional, social, and cognitive development. They discuss the importance of high-quality early years provision, the influence of school culture, and the role of play in fostering emotional literacy and self-efficacy. The conversation also touches on post-pandemic challenges, parental anxiety, and the need to prepare children for a digital world without compromising their wellbeing. Together, they advocate for a balanced, holistic approach—one that nurtures curiosity, confidence, and strong partnerships between schools and families.
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5 months ago
42 minutes 35 seconds

Heads Unscripted
Series 2 - Episode 1 - A conversation with Dominic Norrish
Our first guest on Series 2 is Dominic Norrish, the Chief Executive of IAPS (The Independent Association of Preparatory Schools), a leading voice in the UK independent education sector. With a career that spans teaching, school leadership, and digital innovation, Dominic brings a unique blend of pedagogical insight and strategic vision to his role. Today, Dominic champions the value of prep schools within a changing educational and societal landscape, supporting hundreds of member schools to adapt, lead and thrive. Simon speaks with Dominic about the critical role of early education in shaping a child's future. They explore the evolving landscape of education—from the rise of AI to the growing importance of emotional regulation and holistic human development. They discuss the challenges parents face in choosing the right school, and the need for strong teaching and leadership. The conversation also touches on changing approaches to assessment, the financial pressures on schools, and why adapting to new realities must not come at the cost of children’s emotional wellbeing or their love of learning.
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5 months ago
45 minutes 42 seconds

Heads Unscripted
Series 1 - Episode 10 - Latymer Upper - A conversation with Sue Wijeratna
In this episode, Simon talks to Su Wijeratna, Head of Latymer Upper, about her impressive educational journey, the value of Co-Ed settings, Latymer's brave new assessment offer, and key challenges facing the sector at this time.
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1 year ago
40 minutes 2 seconds

Heads Unscripted
Series 1 - Episode 9 - Emanuel School - A conversation with Rob Milne
Simon talks to Rob Milne about Emanuel, his educational philosophy and key challenges facing the sector at this time. Simon also talks to Rob about his move to Dulwich College in the next academic year and the smooth transition to his successor at Emanuel.
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1 year ago
32 minutes 59 seconds

Heads Unscripted
Series 1 - Episode 8 - Lady Eleanor Holles - A conversation with Rowena Cole
Simon talks to Rowena Cole about Lady Eleanor Holles, her educational philosophy, single sex schools, and key challenges facing the sector at this time.
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1 year ago
41 minutes 43 seconds

Heads Unscripted
Series 1 - Episode 7 - Wimbledon High - A conversation with Fionnuala Kennedy
Simon talks to Fionnuala Kennedy about Wimbledon High, a girls first education and key challenges facing the sector at this time.
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1 year ago
49 minutes 47 seconds

Heads Unscripted
Series 1 - Episode 6 - Putney High - A conversation with Jo Sharrock
Simon talks to Jo Sharrock about Putney High, their educational philosophy and key challenges facing the sector at this time.
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1 year ago
40 minutes 16 seconds

Heads Unscripted
Series 1 - Episode 5 - Reed's School - A conversation with Mark Hoskins
Simon talks to Mark Hoskins about Reed's, his educational philosophy and other key challenges facing the sector at this time.
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1 year ago
47 minutes 16 seconds

Heads Unscripted
Series 1 - Episode 4 - Kew House - A conversation with Will Williams
Simon talks to Will Williams about Kew House, their educational philosophy and other key challenges facing the sector at this time.
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1 year ago
45 minutes 40 seconds

Heads Unscripted
A fresh new chapter: introducing Heads Unscripted: Education Uncovered We are giving our podcast a refresh. When we first started, our focus was clear. We invited senior school heads to talk about their schools, their ethos and what life might look like for pupils who joined them. Those conversations have been hugely valuable for many Hurlingham families and others who are exploring senior school options. Over time, though, the conversations have started to widen. We have found ourselves talking less about individual prospectuses and more about leadership, philosophy and the bigger questions facing education today. What should school feel like for children growing up now. How do we lead with purpose in a time of pressure and change. What are the real challenges facing our sector and where might the answers come from. It feels like the right moment for the podcast to evolve too. Our series is now called Heads Unscripted: Education uncovered. The new name reflects the direction we are already travelling in. Heads Unscripted keeps our focus on people who lead, think and influence in education, but it frees us from simply asking heads to talk about their own schools. Education uncovered signals our intention to get under the surface of the issues, ideas and stories that are shaping children’s lives in classrooms today. You will still hear from senior school heads, but you will also hear from prep and primary leaders, researchers, psychologists, policymakers and others who care deeply about where education is heading. We want to unlock some of the challenges our sector is facing, explore what is working, and share those conversations with a wider audience than parents who are just at the senior school decision stage. This is a refresh rather than a complete reboot. The tone will remain open, thoughtful and practical. What changes is the scope. Heads Unscripted: Education uncovered will give us room to explore leadership, wellbeing, curriculum, community, AI, adolescence and more, while keeping the experience of children at the heart of every episode. Thank you for listening so far and for growing with us. We are excited about this next chapter and hope you will continue to join the conversation.