IAPS Conference 2023

As we approach our half term I have been reflecting on what has been an incredible start to our academic year.

A couple of weeks ago I joined four hundred other Headteachers at our annual IAPS Head’s conference in Liverpool to return to the classroom to hear about developments and current trends in education across the world and nationally. The theme of the conference was ‘Venture Out’ and, as I attended keynote speakers and seminars, I felt so much pride in what we already do here at St. Helen’s College.  

There were a host of speakers who shared their wealth of knowledge on topics, which included:

Ben Edmonds who has just stepped down as one of the principal designers at Dyson to launch his own company. He reminded us of the skills and creativity which our children will need to be innovative in their future lives.

Sarah Horrocks who shared her expertise on developing a digital strategy and tranforming the curriculum and the impact of blended learning. Needless to say, St. Helen’s College is already quite a front runner with our digital learning and our successful online platform throughout the pandemic was testament to this.  

The Scary Guy (yes, that is his name) - please do look at his website. He gave us all food for thought and challenged us all to take part in the seven day challenge, during which everything that comes out of our mouths should be positive and not be derogative and negatively judgemental. If you do find yourself saying something ‘mean’ your challenge starts again. As adults we can find this difficult so how hard is this for children!

Paul Main discussed his work developing his passion and research into the science of learning and we shared the tools and strategies that he has developed to enable children to ‘think for themselves’.

These speakers are only four of many with whom I engaged over the duration of the conference. Although I found them all interesting, I did come away after my few days incredibly proud of what we already have embedded and other aspects we continue to develop at St. Helen’s College. It highlighted for me how innovative and committed the staff at SHC are in always keeping informed about research, pedagogy and being the best they can be to inspire your children.

It is the drive and commitment of the team around your children who enable them to make such great progress and of course the parental support which helps the children to thrive and strive for excellence every day.

The pupils and staff all now need to recharge over the half term break in order to return for the next half term to continue following their passion for learning. Happy half term to all!

Ms Drummond