Q&A: ACADEMY21 interacting with others.
Schools and nurseries must be safe for all, and while suspensions and exclusions have their place, they should be used as opportunities for reflection. By developing innovative, research-led interventions, we can better support children upon their return, focusing on what they are truly trying to communicate.
3. Where is the line between parenting and educating, and as school leaders, what are we responsible for?
Where does our responsibility as educators begin and end? The old African proverb, “it takes a village to raise a child,” is a fitting starting point. Children are complex beings, and their early interactions shape their perception of the world. As educators, our role extends beyond teaching children to read, write, and count. We must create a safe, nurturing environment where they feel seen and valued. Bowlby’s concept of a “secure base from which to explore” is crucial both at home and at school.
By working collaboratively with families, we can ensure that children have the support they need to thrive. Our relationships with families should be compassionate and holistic, fostering positive interactions that guide children towards success.
4. What about when a mainstream setting isn’t a good fit?
What happens when a mainstream setting doesn’t meet a child’s needs? Mainstream schools can be fantastic, but they aren’t always the right fit for every pupil. With tight budgets and relentless workloads, it can be challenging for leaders to adapt their approaches to meet the needs of every child.
For some pupils, a full day in a mainstream classroom can be overwhelming. A hybrid
timetable, incorporating sensory breaks and changes of scenery, may be the key to their success. Many schools are creating Internal Alternative Provisions or Adaptive Provisions, providing safe, welcoming spaces for learning. This is where online AP could help. Online providers can also offer cost-effective, high- quality education, engaging pupils through technology and a carefully sequenced and chunked curriculum. As the Executive Headteacher at Academy 21, the UK’s largest DfE-accredited online AP, I’ve seen the transformative impact of this approach. By embracing innovation, we can prepare the next generation for a world we can’t yet imagine.
5. How can we better support teachers in adapting to these changes?
How do we ensure our teachers are equipped to handle these evolving challenges? Professional development is key. Teachers need ongoing training to understand and address the diverse needs of their pupils effectively.
Collaboration is also crucial. By fostering a culture of sharing best practices and learning from one another, we can create a supportive environment where teachers feel empowered to innovate. Encouraging open dialogue and providing resources for experimentation can lead to more effective teaching strategies and improved outcomes for pupils.
6. What role does technology play in modern education?
What is the role of technology in today’s educational landscape? Technology is a powerful tool that can enhance learning experiences and provide new opportunities for engagement. It allows for personalised learning, enabling pupils to progress at their own pace and according to their
individual needs.
However, technology should complement, not replace, traditional teaching methods. The human element remains essential in education. By integrating technology thoughtfully, we can create a balanced approach that leverages its benefits while maintaining the relational aspects of teaching.
In conclusion, the challenges we face in education today require a collaborative, innovative approach. By working together, embracing change, and prioritising the needs of our pupils, we can create an educational environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive.
September 2025
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