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
New this week: 'Disappointment, Setbacks and Failure Part 2' - Bart Wielenga, Head
The Thoughtful Thursdays Middle Leaders’ Programme at Blundell’s is a six-term initiative designed to develop and empower middle leaders—those who manage departments, houses, or year groups. These leaders are vital to school culture, staff morale, and pupil experience.
The programme focuses on eight key competencies, including communication, empathy, problem-solving, and wellbeing. Each term addresses a specific theme, from self-awareness to mentoring and practical leadership tools. Training combines internal expertise with external providers like Peopletopia, and is scheduled to suit busy teaching timetables.
Rooted in reflection, collaboration, and action, the programme equips leaders to manage teams effectively, navigate challenges, and lead with purpose. Its ultimate goal is to enhance the pupil experience by ensuring every leader is confident, supported, and impactful.
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 – Adèle Worsley, Deputy Head: Co-Curricular
- Artificial Intelligence and Science – Jonathan Ratcliffe, Deputy Head: Academic
- Why does creativtiy matter in education? – Lucy Richards
- AI in relation to pupils with additional learning needs – Andy Kingdon, Head of Learning Suppport
- Learning with Intelligence: How We Are Using AI to Support Every Pupil's Education – Charles List, Senior Deputy Head Innovation
- Disappointment, Setbacks and Failure Part 1 - Bart Wielenga, Head
- 'Empowering the Heart of the School: How Our Middle Leaders’ Programme is Driving
Excellence for Your Children' – Charles List, Senior Deputy Head Innovation - Disappointment, Setbacks and Failure Part 2 - Bart Wielenga, Head