This week has prompted me to reflect on the value of independence in education. What it allows schools like ours to do well, and why it matters so much for the pupils we serve. On Wednesday, I attended the Society of Heads’ Board meeting. This is a small group of elected Heads who meet regularly. Being part of this board is both a privilege and a responsibility. It requires careful thought, open dialogue and a commitment to acting in the best interests of independent education as a whole, not just our own individual schools. These discussions are always energising and professionally enriching. They provide space to share best practice, to challenge one another’s thinking and to learn from different contexts. They also reaffirm why independence in education is so powerful when it is exercised thoughtfully: it gives schools the freedom to make decisions that are right for their pupils, rather than decisions driven solely by national prescription.
At Derby High, our independence allows us to design a curriculum that genuinely meets the needs of our pupils, academically, pastorally and holistically. It enables us to prioritise depth of learning, curiosity and confidence, rather than simply preparing pupils for the next set of tests. One clear example of this is our decision not to sit SATs in Year 6. This is a deliberate choice, allowing our pupils to enjoy a rich primary education without the pressure of high-stakes testing at such a formative age, and ensuring they move into Senior School ready to learn and flourish.

To read all of this week’s Primary High Notes, please click here.