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EDUCATION I N D E P E N D E N T
T O D A Y
As schools across the UK immerse themselves in the hurly burly of educating the next generation, a selection of the great and good – and yours truly – took time out to refl ect on some of the issues and challenges facing the sector at ‘Practical Strategies 2014’, Veale Wasbrough Vizards’ eye- opening independent schools conference held in London in mid-September. To say the event provided food for thought would be to understate its impact. The mood was both upbeat and
serious, perfectly encapsulated by two very diff erent presentations. While ISC General Secretary Mat hew Burgess hammered home the economic benefi ts of the sector to the UK, consultant Mungo Dunnet painted a sobering picture of trends which should concern everyone, not least the way in which private school fees have spectacularly outstripped infl ation for the last 50
years and, partly as a consequence, how the ‘typical’ private school parent has changed beyond all recognition. Should we be worried? Not really, because there will always be a market for the best – and Britain’s independent schools remain just that. I’ll write more on all this both online (
www.ie-today.co.uk) and in subsequent issues. Meantime, enjoy this latest edition, packed
as it is with features designed to aid and inspire Heads and bursars across the country. Dave Higgit , Editor
david.higgitt@wildfirecomms.co.uk Regulars
Page 04 News: a mix of topical stories about the independent education sector including the opening of Newcastle High
Page 11 Noticeboard: independent schools’ high achievers
Page 08 Comment: the importance of great teaching; why fathers should join the PTA; helping children move to senior school
Page 12 Opinion: making connections is all important, but so too is knowing when to make them, says Hilary Moriarty
Page 40 Events: We preview the GSA & HMC Conferences, the Education Facilities Forum, and Education Estates Page 46 Photo Finish: Oundle School’s globe-straddling summer tour
Cover story
School furniture needs to be both functional and fl exible to meet the demands of a fast-changing teaching environment (p.14)
Legal advice
When devising their marketing strategies, schools need to think carefully about the legal ramifi cations, advises Paula Williams (p.20)
Money
furnishing special, p.14
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Cover: school
Independent schools are exposed to a wide range of risks, but are they prepared to meet them? (p.22)
Facilities
Forward-thinking independent schools are fi nding creative ways to improve effi ciency, says Richard Manby (p.24)
School life
Making stimulating, safe and fun play accessible to every child is vital, says Deborah Holt (p.25)
Catering
With new allergen regulations come into force soon, Sue Parfet explains what they will mean for school caterers (p.30)
Keep it green Survey shows improved environmental awareness in education (p.33)
Wildfi re Comms Limited Unit 2.4 Paintworks, Arnos Vale, Bath Road, Bristol BS4 3EN
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Innovation
Ten tips for improving a school’s digital presence (p.34); the benefi ts off ered to schools by virtual software technology (p.35)
International
Could intensive English-language summer schools off er any lessons to independent schools (p.36)
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EDUCATION I N D E P E N D E N T
ISSUE 53 OCTOBER 2014 T O D A Y
I ’VE STARTED SO I ’L L FURNISH Al l the latest t rends in school furni ture and storage
+ MA R K E T I N G S T R AT E G I E S | I N S U R A N C E & R I S K | A C C E S S I B L E P L AY | F O O D A L L E R G I E S | O N L I N E T I P S E N G L I S H - L A N G UA G E S UMME R S C H O O L S | IMP ROV I N G T IME - K E E P I N G | P R E V I EWS : G S A & HMC C O N F E R E N C E S
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