Join us in this insightful episode as we explore the transformative journey of SWPS transitioning to a co-educational school. Dr Steven Berryman and Heather O'Connor discuss the motivations, challenges, and exciting opportunities that come with this significant change. Discover how the school is preparing its staff and students for a new era of inclusive education.

Key Highlights:

• The rationale behind SWPS's decision to become co-educational.
• Insights into the phased approach and its impact on current students.
• How the school is maintaining its strong academic and pastoral care reputation.
• The role of staff training in preparing for a co-ed environment.
• Exciting new opportunities in arts and sports with the inclusion of boys.

Summary

In this episode, Dr Rachel Fentem shares her journey from being a student at Sir William Perkins’s School to becoming a diplomat and soon-to-be ambassador. She reflects on her various roles within the UK government, the impact of her education in classics on her professional development, and the vital role of cultural understanding in diplomacy. Rachel underscores the importance of pursuing one’s passion and offers thoughtful advice to students about discovering purpose in unexpected places.

Takeaways

• Rachel’s career path was shaped by her early interest in diplomacy.
• Her education in classics provided critical thinking skills essential to her role.
• Cultural understanding is fundamental in international relations.
• Becoming an ambassador is both a great honour and a significant responsibility.
• Rachel highlights the importance of passion when making career choices.
• She encourages students to embrace non-linear and unexpected career paths.
• Inspirational teachers can leave a lasting impact on students’ lives.
• Language skills are crucial for success in diplomacy and global engagement.
• Her experiences in Japan and Germany underscore key cultural differences.
• It’s never too late to pursue personal passions, such as music and dance.

Links

www.swps.org.uk

Summary

This conversation explores the Peter Jones Foundation's Tycoon Challenge, an initiative aimed at fostering entrepreneurial skills among students. The discussion includes insights from teachers and students about the challenge, their business ideas, the lessons learned, and the importance of sustainability. The conversation also touches on the broader educational opportunities for developing entrepreneurial thinking and the debate on whether entrepreneurial skills can be taught or are innate.

Takeaways

• The Tycoon Challenge encourages entrepreneurial spirit among students.
• Students create business plans and receive loans to start trading.
• The challenge is open to students across the UK, free of charge.
• Participants develop transferable skills like teamwork and problem-solving.
• Sustainability was a core focus of the students' business ideas.
• Time management was crucial for balancing schoolwork and business.
• Financial literacy was a key lesson learned during the challenge.
• Networking with business owners provided valuable insights for students.
• Educational initiatives help students practice entrepreneurial skills.
• Entrepreneurial skills can be taught and are essential for future success

Links

www.swps.org.uk