Thoughts from the Study
Growth-Mindset
I have recently delved into Adam Grant’s book, “Hidden Talent,” authored by the organisational scientist renowned for his expertise in motivation, rethinking assumptions, and fostering generous and creative lives. Through a series of real-life case studies and examples, Grant underscores the notion that everyone possesses the potential for greatness.
At Broomfield, we firmly believe that every child has the capacity to achieve greatness, a sentiment that extends to all of us, regardless of age. Defining greatness or success is a deeply personal matter, varying from one person to another. Therefore, instead of delving into the complexities of these concepts, our focus lies on instilling a growth mindset in children. This involves nurturing their confidence and self-esteem to embrace the mindset of ‘I can do it.’
As a leader in education, working at Broomfield is an absolute privilege. Here, we witness the embodiment of this philosophy daily, as children continually impress us with their intrinsic motivation to learn and adapt, even when faced with initial challenges. Often the most daunting aspect of learning something new, lies in taking the first step. Just this morning, I had a discussion with some Year 4 children regarding this very notion. We deliberated on the idea that sometimes, the best course of action is simply to begin, fully expecting challenges initially, with the assurance that it will get easier with effort and perseverance.
This principle was exemplified beautifully during our assembly this morning, where two outstanding Year 4 girls delivered a speech in Korean before the entire school. Last week, during Headmasters Club, these girls approached me with their Korean phrase books. Displaying remarkable initiative, they had independently sought out Mrs. Hyun, asking her to teach them one Korean phrase per week, which they diligently recorded in their books and practised together. Speaking a foreign language for the first time is undoubtedly challenging, yet these girls persisted and quickly gained enough confidence to address the entire school. Their exceptional demonstration of linguistic prowess served as an inspiration for other children to explore their own interests and embark on independent learning journeys.
The concept of a growth mindset, is nothing new, and was introduced initially by psychologist Carol Dweck in 2006, where she highlighted the significant influence our beliefs about our abilities have on our achievements. In essence, if we believe we can succeed and invest the necessary effort, our abilities can develop over time through dedication and hard work.
A recent example of this was observed during this year’s London Marathon. Anya Culling, who ran her first marathon in 2020 with a time of 4.5 hours, transformed from a novice to an elite competitor, achieving a remarkable time of 2.4 hours. In an interview, she described her initial marathon experience as painful. However, just a few years later, with the right mindset, she was running at an elite pace. Importantly, she attributed her success not only to achieving balance and enjoyment throughout the journey but also to focusing on the process rather than solely on the end result.
At Broomfield, we incorporate this concept by consistently praising effort over mere outcomes. We emphasise to our children that failure is not indicative of inability but rather an opportunity for learning and growth. This mindset encourages them to adopt new problem-solving approaches, seek assistance when needed, and value feedback – all essential for personal, academic, and lifelong development. Rather than simply stating “You are so smart,” we commend creativity and effort, for example, “You found an excellent way to solve that problem.” I believe that we all have hidden potential that we are yet to discover. Although we may not all learn how to speak Korean, or find the speed to run a marathon in 2.44hours, as we approach the bank holiday weekend, let’s give ourselves (and the children) a pre-emptive past on the back, for all the successes to come as a result of determination and hard work and a positive ‘can-do’ mindset.
All the best for the weekend.
Mr Anstey
Happy New Year from all of us at Broomfield!
On Monday we kicked off the spring term with the Dukes Education Conference at Wembley. We are delighted to share that our Headmaster, Adam Anstey, and the school were honoured with the Wellbeing Initiative Award in recognition of the effective efforts to promote wellbeing among both children and staff.
This award is a true testament to what is one of the cornerstones of our philosophy and work at Broomfield.
With the theme “The Heart of Education” the conference provided a fantastic opportunity for professional development. Thought-provoking discussions explored the impact of AI, the future of education, and the critical importance of character development in shaping the young leaders of tomorrow.
Happy New Year from all of us at Broomfield!
On Monday we kicked off the spring term with the Dukes Education Conference at Wembley. We are delighted to share that our Headmaster, Adam Anstey, and the school were honoured with the Wellbeing Initiative Award in recognition of the effective efforts to promote wellbeing among both children and staff.
This award is a true testament to what is one of the cornerstones of our philosophy and work at Broomfield.
With the theme “The Heart of Education” the conference provided a fantastic opportunity for professional development. Thought-provoking discussions explored the impact of AI, the future of education, and the critical importance of character development in shaping the young leaders of tomorrow. ...
We are excited to welcome all our families back to school for another great term at Broomfield! 🌟
We are excited to welcome all our families back to school for another great term at Broomfield! 🌟 ...
At the end of the term, we reflect on many events, trips, and achievements. From the early days of settling into routines in Early Years to the progress made across all year groups, it’s been a wonderfully busy term.
Wishing all families a restful break! 🎄🌟
At the end of the term, we reflect on many events, trips, and achievements. From the early days of settling into routines in Early Years to the progress made across all year groups, it’s been a wonderfully busy term.
Wishing all families a restful break! 🎄🌟 ...
This week, on Wednesday, we welcomed M&M Theatrical Productions for a fun and engaging pantomime performance. The actors performed brilliantly, captivating both children and staff alike. It was a wonderful opportunity for the children to immerse themselves in live theatre and enjoy a well-deserved treat in the last week of term.
This week, on Wednesday, we welcomed M&M Theatrical Productions for a fun and engaging pantomime performance. The actors performed brilliantly, captivating both children and staff alike. It was a wonderful opportunity for the children to immerse themselves in live theatre and enjoy a well-deserved treat in the last week of term. ...
On Tuesday last week, children from Years 2 - 6 gathered at St. Anne’s Church to kick off the festive season with our annual Christmas Carol Service. Each year group contributed beautifully, and we felt immense pride listening to their lovely singing and instrument playing. An extra ‘well done’ to Year 6 who read the nine lessons brilliantly, telling us the story of the birth of Jesus. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this wonderful occasion.
On Tuesday last week, children from Years 2 - 6 gathered at St. Anne’s Church to kick off the festive season with our annual Christmas Carol Service. Each year group contributed beautifully, and we felt immense pride listening to their lovely singing and instrument playing. An extra ‘well done’ to Year 6 who read the nine lessons brilliantly, telling us the story of the birth of Jesus. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this wonderful occasion. ...
A huge thank you to parents who supported the PTA in organising the Broomfield Christmas Market this year. There were beautiful gifts, delicious market food and a lovely community rendition of ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’. Thank you to Halletts Estate Agents for sponsoring the event.
A huge thank you to parents who supported the PTA in organising the Broomfield Christmas Market this year. There were beautiful gifts, delicious market food and a lovely community rendition of ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’. Thank you to Halletts Estate Agents for sponsoring the event. ...
This morning, the Junior School children impressed us with fabulous Nativity and Christmas performances. Kindergarten brought a unique twist with their charming roles as ladybirds, caterpillars, and even bees. 🐝 Each performance was a triumph!
This morning, the Junior School children impressed us with fabulous Nativity and Christmas performances. Kindergarten brought a unique twist with their charming roles as ladybirds, caterpillars, and even bees. 🐝 Each performance was a triumph! ...
We are excited to share that we won 1st prize for 3D group work (Key Stage 2) with our stunning mosaic at the ISA National Art Competition! Every child in school contributed to this art project. A huge congratulations also to Evelyn, whose tiger painting was highly commended. @isaartsuk
We are excited to share that we won 1st prize for 3D group work (Key Stage 2) with our stunning mosaic at the ISA National Art Competition! Every child in school contributed to this art project. A huge congratulations also to Evelyn, whose tiger painting was highly commended. @isaartsuk ...
Children are spending plenty of time exploring and enjoying the new garden. A favourite activity has been transforming fallen leaves into beautiful, creative decorations 🍂🍁.
Children are spending plenty of time exploring and enjoying the new garden. A favourite activity has been transforming fallen leaves into beautiful, creative decorations 🍂🍁. ...
Roasting marshmallows over the fire – what a fantastic way for Year 2 to end a busy week at school!
Roasting marshmallows over the fire – what a fantastic way for Year 2 to end a busy week at school! ...
Thanks to all Broomfield families for your generous donations to our local food bank. We also continued our tradition of our harvest boxes, which were delivered by our Year 6 children, staff and parent volunteers to the elderly in our local area. It was a heartwarming event, reminding us of the value of kindness and generosity during this season of harvest.
Thanks to all Broomfield families for your generous donations to our local food bank. We also continued our tradition of our harvest boxes, which were delivered by our Year 6 children, staff and parent volunteers to the elderly in our local area. It was a heartwarming event, reminding us of the value of kindness and generosity during this season of harvest. ...
Well done to Year 3 for creating these wonderful harvest cards which were given to the elderly in our community. The children worked on their water colour technique and collage skills. Fantastic work!
Well done to Year 3 for creating these wonderful harvest cards which were given to the elderly in our community. The children worked on their water colour technique and collage skills. Fantastic work! ...