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Thoughtful Thursdays: Exploring the Heart of Education

Delving into key themes and insights from our community survey to illuminate the processes that shape learning at Blundell’s.

Welcome to Thoughtful Thursdays: Insights into Education at Blundell’s

Click here to read the latest essay “Evidence-Informed Practice, Blundell’s Professional Development Review Process” by Emma Weaver

Shaping Minds, Inspiring Futures

Join Emma Weaver, our Head of Psychology, Assistant Head of Staff Development, and editor of our in-house research publication “The Blundell’s Research Journal”, as she explains our commitment to reflective teaching and evidence-informed practice. In her essay, she delves into the thought behind our Professional Development Review (PDR) process, where staff engage in action research and explore innovative ways to enhance learning experiences for our pupils. This collaborative approach empowers teachers and strengthens our community of educators

At Blundell’s, we believe that education is more than just a destination—it’s a journey shaped by thoughtful processes, innovative thinking, and a commitment to nurturing every pupil’s potential. To give you a deeper understanding of how we approach this journey, we’re excited to introduce Thoughtful Thursdays, a series of essays and thought pieces that delve into the key themes raised in our recent survey.

Each week, we’ll explore topics that matter most to our community, from the role of artificial intelligence in education to the power of character development and diversity. These essays are designed to provide insights into the intentionality behind our methods, sharing the philosophy and practices that drive Blundell’s forward..

Whether you’re a current parent, a prospective family, or simply curious about the ideas shaping modern education, Thoughtful Thursdays offers a window into the heart of what makes Blundell’s unique.

What to Expect:

Exclusive Insights: Learn from the expertise of Blundell’s staff as they share their vision, strategies, and reflections.
Timely Topics: Stay informed about the issues shaping education today and how Blundell’s is leading the way.
Ongoing Engagement: Check back weekly for the latest updates, essays, and thought pieces that will challenge, inspire, and inform.

Each essay offers a fresh perspective on the innovative practices and philosophies that underpin Blundell’s educational approach. We invite you to bookmark this page and join us every Thursday for thoughtful insights into what makes our school a truly special place for learning and growth.

Upcoming Topics to Look Out For:

  • Strategy and Vision – Bart Wielenga, Head
  • Artificial Intelligence (Part I): A Survey Response – Charles List, Senior Deputy Head Innovation
  • Artificial Intelligence (Part II): Its Role in Education – Charles List, Senior Deputy Head Innovation
  • Character Education – Bart Wielenga, Head
  • Research-Informed Practice: Professional Development at Blundell’s – Emma Weaver
  • Supporting Children in Managing the Online and Offline World – Matt Radley, Second Master
  • The Power of a Diverse Team – Tammy Winsley, Director EDI
  • School Finances – Bart Wielenga, Head
  • The Ethos of the Co-Curricular Programme at Blundell’s – Adele Worsley, Deputy Head: Co-Curricular
  • Artificial Intelligence and Science – Jonathan Ratcliffe, Deputy Head: Academic

Latest News

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Choral Workshop Day with composer, Joanna Forbes L’Estrange

On Thursday the 23rd of January, we were delighted to welcome the internationally acclaimed composer Joanna Forbes L’Estrange to Blundell’s for an afternoon of workshops with the Senior and Prep School choirs. This year’s Spring Concert, The Seasons, includes the world premiere of A Season to Sing, a piece co-commissioned by Blundell’s.

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Blundell’s Celebrates Top Ranking in The Times Parent Power List

We are delighted to share that Blundell's School has been ranked 244th in The Times' Parent Power list, a prestigious ranking based on GCSE and A-Level results.

Our position reflects the strong academic achievements of our pupils, particularly given the highly selective nature of many of the schools ranked alongside us.

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Blundell’s Ranks 2nd in Devon for A Level Progress, Among Top 5% Nationally

The Department for Education has released its rankings for A Level progress following the final ratification of summer 2024 examination results.

We are delighted to announce that Blundell’s has secured 2nd place in Devon, narrowly being pipped to top spot by Exeter Maths School.

Blundell’s is proud to be among the top 5% of schools nationwide, earning the highest rating of “Well above average” from the Department for Education. These rankings are based on a comparison of A Level results, measuring students’ progress against peers across England who began with similar GCSE outcomes at the end of Year 11.


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Exciting Leadership Update: Chris Filbey Appointed as Second Master from September 2025

Chris Filbey, the new Second Master to take over from Matt Radley in September 2025. Chris is currently an Assistant Head at Epsom College where he was previously a Housemaster. Before that he was Head of Modern Languages at Haileybury. I look forward to working with Chris and we will introduce him to the wider Blundell’s community in due course.

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OB Jamie Stewart selected for Scotland U20s 6 Nations Squad

Head Coach Kenny Murray has named a 34-player Scotland U20 squad to compete in the 2025 U20 Six Nations.

The group consists of 19 forwards and 15 backs, and will get their championship underway at home to Italy U20 on Friday 31 January at Hive Stadium.

Johnny Ventisei will captain the squad, having led the side against Wales U20 in a friendly in December.

Freddy Douglas, who won a first Scotland senior cap against Portugal in November last year, is selected as he nears a return from injury.


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We've Joined The Wellbeing Hub

Blundell’s is thrilled to announce our investment in The Wellbeing Hub by Teen Tips, a comprehensive resource dedicated to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of our Senior School community. With expert-led, evidence-based tools, The Wellbeing Hub will empower pupils, parents, and staff with guidance and resources to support students’ social, emotional, and educational needs. This initiative underscores our commitment to fostering a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.


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STEM Week Sparks Innovation and Collaboration at Prep School

During this Autumn Term, our Drama Scholars delivered an impressive Autumn Showcase featuring their examination pieces. The performances spanned Restoration Comedy, Comedy of Manners, Musical Theatre, contemporary works, and original material.

The evening highlighted the scholars’ talent, creativity, and dedication, showcasing the high standard of drama at Blundell’s. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and look forward to seeing their continued growth.

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House Music 2024

House Music was a highlight of the term, with standout performances from Reuben (Old House) winning the Solo Performance Trophy and Nico (Westlake) earning Best Individual Contribution. North Close won the Ensemble Trophy, and Old House claimed both the House Song and overall titles. Pupils were praised for their energy and effort throughout the event.

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Westminster Abbey Evensong

An incredible experience for our pupils to sing in one of the world’s most famous churches

Senior School News