In this episode:

• How the school's sailing programe operates without a local water body
• The awe-inspiring voyage of Jolie Brise and its role in student development
• The evolution of sailing activities over 30 years at Dauntsey's
• Navigating and managing high-tech sailing equipment
• Addressing seasickness and safety protocols on the boat
• Memorable voyages, including winning Tall Ships 2000 and Atlantic crossings
• The importance of peer support and overcoming fears at sea
• The benefits of sailing for student confidence and skills
• Practical advice for parents concerned about safety and children’s resilience

Links:

https://www.dauntseys.org/life-at-dauntseys/adventure/jolie-brise

In this episode:

• The distinction between speech and drama and traditional drama
• How students can participate in LAMDA exams and beyond
• The broad benefits of drama for holistic education
• Success stories of students transforming through drama
• The supportive environment for experimenting and learning from failure
• Details of the upcoming Summer Festival and production of The Three Sisters
• The enduring relevance of Shakespeare and lesser-known plays like The Winter’s Tale
• Rob’s journey from classical theatre to education and his professional acting background

Key Topics

1. The significance of International Women's Day
2. The role of men in supporting gender equality
3. Women who have inspired change, like Coco Chanel
4. The importance of authentic self-presentation in the digital age
5. Opportunities for leadership and empowerment in school
6. Challenges faced by young women in the workplace
7. The impact of role models and mentorship
8. Encouraging intergenerational conversations on gender and equality

Takeaways

1. The DSPA is a volunteer committee that supports the school.
2. Community involvement is crucial for a positive school atmosphere.
3. Events organised by the DSPA enhance the school experience for families.
4. Parental engagement helps new parents feel welcomed.
5. The DSPA funds projects that benefit the school and students.
6. The DSPA organises various events throughout the school year.
7. Parents are welcome and encouraged to get involved and all information is on MySchoolPortal (MSP)

Links:

https://www.dauntseys.org/our-community/the-dspa

dspa@dauntseys.wilts.sch.uk

dspacontact@gmail.com

Takeaways

• Christmas traditions bring communities together.
• The holiday season is a time for reflection.
• It's important to acknowledge mixed emotions during Christmas.
• Hope and light are central themes of the Christmas story.
• Christmas offers a message of grace and unconditional love.
• Navigating the pressures of the season requires kindness.
• The contrast between karma and Christmas highlights grace.
• Receiving love and grace can be challenging but transformative.
• Books can provide valuable insights during the holiday season.
• Traditions can help ground us in the true meaning of Christmas.

Links:

Graham Tomlin article

The Boy, The Mole, The Fox And The Horse

The Greatest Story Ever Told

Takeaways

• Chris Walker emphasises the importance of creativity in choosing productions.
• The unique staging of 'Into the Woods' presented various challenges.
• Enthusiasm in young performers can outweigh the need for talent.
• Teamwork is crucial in a school musical, fostering relationships across age groups.
• Resilience among students is remarkable, balancing academics and performance.
• Nerves can enhance performance energy and focus.
• The backstage crew plays a vital role in the success of productions.
• Encouraging families to attend theatre is essential for its survival.
• Future productions will continue to challenge students creatively.
• The drama department is open to student-directed performances and ideas.

Takeaways

• Dale Gleed emphasises the importance of first impressions in a school setting.
• His journey into groundskeeping stemmed from a love for sports and the outdoors.
• Sustainability is a growing concern among students and staff at schools.
• Dale manages a diverse environment, including sports pitches and woodlands.
• He believes in proactive planning for seasonal changes in groundskeeping.
• The role of a groundsman is multifaceted, involving various responsibilities.
• Dale has planted nearly 300 trees during his tenure at Daunsey's.
• There is a shift towards accepting less manicured landscapes for biodiversity.
• He encourages people to take time to appreciate the countryside around them.
• Dale reflects on how his childhood environment shaped his appreciation for nature.

Takeaways

• Alison's journey in music began at a young age due to her musical parents.
• Working with prisoners in rehabilitation through music was a pivotal experience for Alison.
• The lower school curriculum focuses on practical skills and exposure to various instruments.
• Music education evolves in secondary school, incorporating diverse genres and technology.
• Music technology is becoming increasingly important in modern music education.
• Accessibility in music education is a significant concern, especially post-COVID.
• Alison aims to make music education inclusive and affordable for all students.
• The joy of music should be central to the classroom experience.
• Alison's personal playlist reflects her diverse musical tastes.
• Music education at the school is designed to engage and excite students.

Takeaways

1. The Upper School covers Years 10 to 13, with a focus on GCSEs and A Levels.
2. Sixth Form is a crucial time for developing independence and life skills.
3. Students are encouraged to take part in co-curricular activities and leadership roles.
4. A structured induction helps students settle confidently into sixth form life.
5. Dauntsey’s offers a diverse selection of A Level and BTEC subjects.
6. The ‘plus one’ option allows exploration beyond core academic subjects.
7. Boarding life provides supportive social spaces and fosters strong community bonds.
8. Sixth Former's are educated about responsible behaviour, including alcohol awareness.
9. Outreach and volunteering are key elements of the Sixth Form ethos.
10. While academic achievement is important, personal development is equally valued.

Links

https://www.dauntseys.org/

Takeaways

1. Coni has been at Dauntsey's School since 1990.
2. The school has grown from 550 to over 840 pupils.
3. Dauntsey's offers a unique environment with ample space for children.
4. The school promotes a sense of community and belonging.
5. Random acts of kindness are encouraged among students.
6. The Lower School has a structured approach to support new students.
7. Resilience is a key value developed in students.
8. Coni has held various roles, including head of girls' games and director of sport.
9. The school emphasises the importance of happy children for effective learning.
10. Coni reflects on the highlights of her 35-year journey at Dauntsey's

Links

https://www.dauntseys.org/

Takeaways

1. Learning support centres on recognising and addressing individual needs.
2. The language surrounding SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) has evolved to be more inclusive.
3. Parents play an essential role in their child’s learning journey.
4. A diagnosis can empower students by helping them understand their own challenges.
5. Inclusive environments benefit the entire student body, not just those with identified needs.
6. Raising community awareness helps reduce stigma around neurodiversity.
7. Success in learning support is not solely academic and can take many forms.
8. Effective adaptive teaching begins with understanding the learner.
9. Specialists are key in delivering personalised, targeted support.
10. Future developments, such as ADHD coaches, reflect the need for more tailored interventions.

Links

https://www.dauntseys.org/

In this conversation, Jenna, the Head of Futures at Dauntsey's, shares her journey and reflections on the changing landscape of career education. She discusses the importance of giving students the freedom to explore a wide range of future pathways and the value of starting these conversations early. Jenna highlights how career trajectories are no longer linear and stresses the role of purposeful gap years in enhancing employability. She also touches on the impact of parental expectations and the importance of focusing on individual strengths and preferences. Above all, she celebrates the diverse successes of students at Dauntsey's, emphasising the need to find the right fit for each young person.

Takeaways

• The school provides a wide range of extracurricular activities for students to explore.
• The role of ‘Head of Futures’ reflects a forward-thinking approach to career guidance.
• Career paths are increasingly varied; many students will pursue multiple careers.
• Asking students “what do you want to be?” can be limiting and unhelpful.
• It’s more meaningful to ask where or how students want to work.
• Parental expectations can shape – and sometimes pressure – students’ choices.
• Future planning should begin with open conversations from a young age.
• A well-planned gap year can significantly boost a student’s personal and professional development.
• Every student’s success should be recognised and celebrated as unique.

Links

https://www.dauntseys.org/

Takeaways

1. Adventure education promotes personal growth and resilience.
2. Facing uncertainty is vital for meaningful development.
3. Adventure can be adapted to suit individual abilities and contexts.
4. Accessible adventure requires no previous experience; high adventure involves greater skill.
5. Adventure settings teach real-life consequences and critical problem-solving.
6. The courage gained through adventure supports wider life challenges.
7. Adventure education focuses on growth, not hardship.
8. Team-based adventures enhance collaboration and communication skills.
9. Shared adventure experiences can nurture empathy and compassion among peers.
10. Adventure education is a key element of a well-rounded, holistic curriculum.

Links

https://www.dauntseys.org/

Key Takeaways

1. Huw values the family ethos and community at Dauntsey's.
2. Being present in the school environment is crucial for pastoral care.
3. Pastoral care encompasses the welfare and happiness of both students and staff.
4. Engaging parents in conversations about mobile phone usage is essential.
5. Education on responsible smartphone use is a priority at Dauntsey's.
6. The school has a structured approach to mobile phone access for students.
7. Staff wellbeing is vital for effective pastoral care.
8. Huw has a strong background in history education and a passion for medieval studies.
9. The Peasants' Revolt is a significant historical event that fascinates Huw.
10. Open communication and availability are key aspects of Huw's pastoral role.

Links

https://www.dauntseys.org/

Takeaways

1. All clubs are open to all pupils, promoting inclusivity.
2. Dance enhances mental health and wellbeing for students.
3. Inclusivity in dance helps break stereotypes.
4. Social media, especially TikTok, boosts dance participation.
5. Dance builds teamwork and confidence among students.
6. Boys are increasingly encouraged to participate in dance.
7. Dance can improve skills in other sports like rugby.
8. Online resources make dance accessible for adults.
9. Dance provides emotional expression and boosts mood.
10. Career paths in dance vary from performance to teaching.

Links

https://www.dauntseys.org/

Takeaways

1. The Devizes to Westminster Canoe Race is known as the Canoeist's Everest.
2. Dan returned to teaching after a successful engineering career.
3. Training for the race is intense and starts in January.
4. Participants face both physical and mental challenges during the race.
5. The race is a significant endurance event, akin to ultra marathons.
6. Building resilience is a key focus of the training process.
7. Completing the race instills confidence in students.
8. The experience of the race stays with participants for life.
9. Dan emphasises the importance of teamwork in the race.
10. The race can change a person's outlook and confidence significantly.

Links

https://www.dauntseys.org/

Takeaways

1. Gigi and Ellis are both actively involved in various school activities.
2. The partnership program at Dauntsey's allows students to engage with the community.
3. Community outreach helps students develop leadership and communication skills.
4. Working with children provides a rewarding experience for the students.
5. The partnership program is open to all sixth form pupils, with many participating.
6. Gigi focuses on dance and teaching, while Elis is involved in science and art.
7. Both students find joy in helping younger children and being role models.
8. The outreach program has inspired both students to consider careers in education.
9. Balancing A Levels with outreach activities is challenging but fulfilling.
10. The future of the partnership program looks promising with more opportunities for involvement.

Links

https://www.dauntseys.org/

Key Takeaways

1. Mental health is as important as physical health.
2. Stigma around mental health still exists, especially among young men.
3. One in four teenagers struggle with mental health issues.
4. Encouraging open conversations about mental health is crucial.
5. Schools need to provide support systems for students.
6. Parents play a vital role in their children's mental health.
7. Positive parenting focuses on strengths rather than weaknesses.
8. Screen time can significantly impact mental health.
9. Counsellors in schools are essential for student support.
10. It's okay to seek help and talk about mental health challenges.

Links

w.walker@dauntseys.wilts.sch.uk

https://www.dauntseys.org/

Key Takeaways

1. Andy serves as the senior deputy head at Dauntsey's.
2. He transitioned from a prep school to a senior school to work with older students.
3. Dauntsey's emphasises a holistic approach to education.
4. The school integrates co-curricular activities into the academic timetable.
5. Outdoor education is a key component of the school's curriculum.
6. Co-curricular activities improve cognitive function and reduce stress.
7. Parents increasingly value co-curricular offerings in education.
8. Discipline at Dauntsey's focuses on respect and responsibility.
9. Compassion is a core value that influences school culture.
10. The school has a low turnover of staff, indicating strong community commitment.

Links

https://www.dauntseys.org/

Takeaways

1. Reverend Jez Barnes has been a school chaplain for over a year.
2. His previous experience includes 24 years as a parish priest.
3. Building relationships is central to his role as a chaplain.
4. School services require a different approach than parish services.
5. Confirmation is an opportunity for personal faith exploration.
6. Christmas celebrations at Dauntseys include carol services and community events.
7. The role of a chaplain is pastoral, supporting the entire school community.
8. Engaging with social justice is part of the school's mission.
9. The importance of understanding different faiths in education.
10. Looking ahead, there are plans for charity work and confirmation classes.

Links

https://www.dauntseys.org/

Takeaways

1. Seb has always aspired to be a PE teacher.
2. His journey began with a graduate assistant scheme.
3. He values inclusivity in sports for all abilities.
4. First impressions of Dauntsey's were overwhelmingly positive.
5. Coaching is as important as teaching in his role.
6. Daily activities include outreach sessions and coaching.
7. He enjoys working with senior students for skill development.
8. Building relationships with students is crucial.
9. The GAT role is respected within the school community.
10. Seb aims to progress in his teaching career.

Links

https://www.dauntseys.org/

Takeaways

1. No two days are ever the same in schools.
2. The culture at Dauntsey's is built on ambition, bravery, and compassion.
3. Compassion is essential for personal development and employability.
4. Self-compassion is crucial for young people's mental health.
5. The performing arts at Dauntsey's are exceptional and recognized nationally.
6. Diverse educational experiences enrich leadership in schools.
7. Pedagogy combines the science and art of teaching.
8. Education has evolved significantly over the past two decades.
9. Schools have a responsibility to address societal issues.
10. Educators play a vital role in shaping the future of society.

Links

headmaster@dauntseys.org

https://www.dauntseys.org/admissions