Fresh Thinking

Fresh Thinking was the programme from Attain which looked at topical issues affecting independent schools and parents. It ran for over a year with 35 episodes. The first episode was released on 2nd September 2020 and the final episode broadcast on 20th October 2021.

Episode 35, 20th October 2021

Joining Matthew this week is Stuart Douch and David Buckingham from Sompting Abbotts Prep School in West Sussex. We discuss how spending time learning about wildlife can be hugely beneficial for children, not just as a learning opportunity but also to help boost pupil wellbeing.

Episode 34, 13th October 2021

Joining Matthew this week is Emma Goldsmith of The Dragon School and Kate Reynolds of the Royal High School Bath GDST. We discuss school communications – how to ensure parents are always in the loop but don't feel overwhelmed by the quantity of information coming home.

Episode 33, 6th October 2021

Joining Matthew this week is Richard Backhouse, Principal of Berkhamsted Schools Group and Chair of HMC. Independent schools have once again found themselves in the political spotlight – we discuss charitable status and Labour's tax plans.

Episode 32, 29th September 2021

Joining Matthew this week is Jason Whiskerd of Brentwood Preparatory School and Irfan Latif of DLD College and a founder member of the Inclusion and Diversity Group of the Independent Schools Council. We discuss diversity, tolerance and equality in the independent sector.

Episode 31, 22nd September 2021

Joining Matthew this week is William Goldsmith, Vice Chair of IAPS, and Head Master of St George's School, Windsor. In a wide-ranging interview, he discusses the pressure on schools and teachers during the pandemic and why the role of prep schools should be reimagined.