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: 'The Discipline of Change: How Schools Can Review, Implement and Reflect with Purpose' - Charles List
This essay outlines Blundell’s approach to thoughtful, values-driven school improvement. Drawing on the Education Endowment Foundation’s implementation guide, it describes how the school reviews and evolves its practices through careful reflection, collaboration, and evidence-based decision-making. Using the review of School House (Years 7 and 8) as a case study, the piece emphasises five key stages of change: starting from core values, gathering internal and external evidence, preparing thoroughly, delivering with care, and sustaining improvements over time. Rather than reacting to trends, Blundell’s embraces continuous, principled development to ensure pupils thrive. The process is described as deeply human — rooted in relationships, culture, and the pursuit of excellence with purpose.
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
- Beyond The Classroom: Outdoor Pursuits - Doug Morrison
- A Reflection on Teacher Training at Blundell's School - Hannah Perrin-Haynes
- Our Christian Foundation - Stuart Alred
- The Discipline of Change: How Schools Can Review, Implement and Reflect with Purpose - Charles List
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The Discipline of Change: How Schools Can Review, Implement and Reflect with Purpose - Charles List |
Our Christian Foundation - Stuart Alred |
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A Reflection on Teacher Training at Blundell's School - Hannah Perrin-Haynes |
Beyond The Classroom: Outdoor Pursuits - Doug Morrison |
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Disappointment, Setbacks and Failure Part 2 - Bart Wielenga |
Empowering the Heart of the School: How Our Middle Leaders’ Programme is Driving |
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Disappointment, Setbacks and Failure Part 1 - Bart Wielenga |
Learning with Intelligence: How We Are Using AI to Support Every Pupil's Education - Charles List |
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AI in relation to pupils with additional learning needs – Andy Kingdon |
Why does creativity matter in education? – Lucy Richards |
Artificial Intelligence and Science - Dr Jonathan Ratcliffe |
The Co-Curricular Ethos at Blundell’s: Creating a Sense of Belonging and Purpose Beyond the Classroom – Adèle Worsley |
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Charles List |
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