Thoughts from the Study
Reflections on Davos
The 54th Annual Davos Forum ends today, a platform that aims to create a space for open discussions between governments, businesses, and thought leaders who are committed to improving the state of the world. I have always shown a keen interest in Davos, as it offers a great deal of opportunity to learn from others and to hear the many different perspectives on global themes. While the conversations happen in Switzerland, as a forward-thinking school, we recognise that these themes also carry weight locally and that a positive, proactive approach within education is needed to ensure our children are best prepared for the world today.
The forum has four key areas this year, which include achieving security and cooperation in a fractured world, creating growth and jobs for a new era, artificial intelligence as a driving force for the economy and society, and a long-term strategy for climate, nature, and energy. As I have been listening to some of the many interesting conversations from Davos, I have been reflecting on what it is we do in school around these themes.
At Broomfield, we are blessed with a wonderfully diverse school community, something we are proud of and embrace. We believe in nurturing a sense of global citizenship in our children, and we look for opportunities for children to share stories and experiences from their backgrounds to give others insights into their differing perspectives on the world around them. To prepare our children for a world where security and cooperation are crucial, we introduce activities across the curriculum that encourage understanding and empathy. The sports field is a prime learning environment that allows our children to understand that working as a team, rather than purely as an individual, often yields a greater outcome. Whether during classroom discussions in an ethics and philosophy session, or during an interactive lesson on world cultures, or participation in community projects, we want our children to learn the value of collaboration and support, and the importance of resolving conflicts peacefully. In an ever-evolving world, we need to ensure children are aware of global issues, but are also equipped with the skills to contribute positively to their local community.
During our staff training day a few weeks back, I enjoyed delivering an AI workshop to the staff team here. Artificial Intelligence is transforming our world, and it’s important that our staff and our children are well-informed and comfortable with this technology. We have already been introducing children in Year Six to the basics of AI in a fun and interactive way, with discussions around the benefits as well as the limitations. Our aim is to demystify AI, showing how it can be a tool for positive change and innovation. Through hands-on activities, children learn how AI is already impacting our daily lives and the potential it holds for shaping a better future. Although we do not overly market it, we are a highly techy school behind the scenes, with an advanced and future-proof network that allows us to embrace best practice when using technology. I am looking forward to attending a global EdTech conference next week, where I will be taking part in Round Table discussions, further improving my understanding of what technology is coming next to the education sector.
An understanding of new and emerging technology is also crucial in today’s fast-evolving job market. Although Broomfield is a prep school, we are already focusing on fundamental life skills that we hope will inspire our children to study further when they leave us at the end of Year Six and enter senior school. Confidence, not being afraid of failure, the development of entrepreneurial skills, and a creative mindset are something we aim to inspire in even our youngest children. Our new Forest School sessions are a great space to develop these skills, and I have been enjoying watching our Early Years children get a lot out of their outdoor learning. As part of our curriculum, we offer workshops on basic economics and encourage innovative thinking. By fostering a can-do attitude and resilience, we want to prepare the children not just to seek out future jobs but to create opportunities and drive growth in new and exciting fields. I am also very excited that we are launching the Little Leaders pathway across Early Years (more details on the Famly App), which is designed to further recognise the children as they develop the skills they will need in the future to inspire positive change.
We were delighted to win the Duke’s Sustainability Award in December. Our planet’s health is a priority, and I believe it crucial to instil a deep respect for the environment in our children. To support this, we integrate lessons on climate change, conservation, and sustainable living into our curriculum. The children participate in eco-friendly projects, learn about renewable energy sources, and understand their role in protecting nature. We also have a superb club that takes place during lunchtime each week, run by a fantastic leader and commercial expert in this area. Ultimately, we aim to empower the children with the knowledge and passion to be proactive in creating a greener, more sustainable world.
As is the case at Davos, each of these key areas is essential to reflect on, to ensure we prepare our children not just for academic success, but for becoming well-rounded, responsible individuals in a rapidly changing world.
All the very best for the weekend.
Mr Anstey
Headmaster
And the winners have been announced! Well done to all children who participated in our Eco Trail over the last few weeks. The children explored nature, learnt about sustainability, and developed a deeper appreciation for the environment. We are incredibly proud of our eco-conscious pupils! 🌿🌍 #ecotrail #sustainability #koalaecotrail
And the winners have been announced! Well done to all children who participated in our Eco Trail over the last few weeks. The children explored nature, learnt about sustainability, and developed a deeper appreciation for the environment. We are incredibly proud of our eco-conscious pupils! 🌿🌍 #ecotrail #sustainability #koalaecotrail ...
What a year we have had! Year 6 children are celebrating their amazing journey at Broomfield House School. Awards were received, tears were shed, and hugs were shared with family and friends at today’s Award Ceremony. We are proud of every child for contributing to school life with such enthusiasm and kindness over the years.
After the awards presentation, we had the honour of welcoming Chris Sheasby, a true rugby legend, who delivered an inspiring speech about the importance of friendship. With a stellar academic background from Radley College and the University of Cambridge, Chris excelled both academically and athletically. His distinguished rugby career saw him play No. 8 for top clubs like Wasps, Harlequins, and London Irish. A standout moment was starting in the 2002 Powergen Cup Final at Twickenham, leading London Irish to victory over Northampton Saints. On the international stage, Chris earned seven caps for England, making a memorable debut with a try against Italy.
Thanks to Chris Sheasby for taking the time to visit us and thanks to all families who celebrated with us today! It was a really special event for the children.
#awardceremony #year6awards #prepschoolaward #guestspeaker #chrissheasby #inspirationalspeech #prepschoollife
What a year we have had! Year 6 children are celebrating their amazing journey at Broomfield House School. Awards were received, tears were shed, and hugs were shared with family and friends at today’s Award Ceremony. We are proud of every child for contributing to school life with such enthusiasm and kindness over the years.
After the awards presentation, we had the honour of welcoming Chris Sheasby, a true rugby legend, who delivered an inspiring speech about the importance of friendship. With a stellar academic background from Radley College and the University of Cambridge, Chris excelled both academically and athletically. His distinguished rugby career saw him play No. 8 for top clubs like Wasps, Harlequins, and London Irish. A standout moment was starting in the 2002 Powergen Cup Final at Twickenham, leading London Irish to victory over Northampton Saints. On the international stage, Chris earned seven caps for England, making a memorable debut with a try against Italy.
Thanks to Chris Sheasby for taking the time to visit us and thanks to all families who celebrated with us today! It was a really special event for the children.
#awardceremony #year6awards #prepschoolaward #guestspeaker #chrissheasby #inspirationalspeech #prepschoollife ...
We had so much fun today! Children gathered in the playground for our annual Den Day. The challenge was to design and construct dens using a variety of materials, and our children rose to the occasion with great team spirit. Despite rather windy weather conditions, the children collaboratively built impressive structures. Well done all!
We had so much fun today! Children gathered in the playground for our annual Den Day. The challenge was to design and construct dens using a variety of materials, and our children rose to the occasion with great team spirit. Despite rather windy weather conditions, the children collaboratively built impressive structures. Well done all! ...
Meet our Headmaster for the day! Felix arrived at school dressed impeccably for his important role. He participated in key meetings, discussed budgets with the finance team, and even had the opportunity to meet Dukes Education UK CEO, Tim Fish. What a day!
Meet our Headmaster for the day! Felix arrived at school dressed impeccably for his important role. He participated in key meetings, discussed budgets with the finance team, and even had the opportunity to meet Dukes Education UK CEO, Tim Fish. What a day! ...
🌿🌎 We are thrilled to launch our new Eco Trail to mark World Environment Day. Join us for a fun and educational adventure through Kew, where you will discover amazing places that help the environment.
🌟 Special Bonus 🐨 Children can win their very own Koala soft toy!
Bring your family, enjoy the walk, and start important conversations about how we can all contribute to a greener future. Let’s make a positive impact together!
📅 Date: Maps will be available to pick up from our local partners @cafetorellikew, Halletts Estate Agents Kew Village and Broomfield House School from Friday 14th June 24.
📍 Location: Kew Village
We can’t wait! 🌿👣
#worldenvironmentday #ecotrail #prepschoolsustainability #kewwalk #koalaecotrail #greenfuture
🌿🌎 We are thrilled to launch our new Eco Trail to mark World Environment Day. Join us for a fun and educational adventure through Kew, where you will discover amazing places that help the environment.
🌟 Special Bonus 🐨 Children can win their very own Koala soft toy!
Bring your family, enjoy the walk, and start important conversations about how we can all contribute to a greener future. Let’s make a positive impact together!
📅 Date: Maps will be available to pick up from our local partners @cafetorellikew, Halletts Estate Agents Kew Village and Broomfield House School from Friday 14th June 24.
📍 Location: Kew Village
We can’t wait! 🌿👣
#worldenvironmentday #ecotrail #prepschoolsustainability #kewwalk #koalaecotrail #greenfuture ...
Art Highlight 🎨 The children in Year 3 learnt about aboriginal art and the origin of natural pigments this term.
Art Highlight 🎨 The children in Year 3 learnt about aboriginal art and the origin of natural pigments this term. ...
We have received the brilliant news that we we are now members of The Independent Association of Prep Schools (@iapsuk)! To reach IAPS membership status, schools must reach a very high standard, with strict criteria on teaching a broad curriculum, maintaining excellent standards of pastoral care and keeping staff members’ professional development training up to date. #prepschoollondon #iaps #iapsmembership #prepschoollife #prepschoolrichmond
We have received the brilliant news that we we are now members of The Independent Association of Prep Schools (@iapsuk)! To reach IAPS membership status, schools must reach a very high standard, with strict criteria on teaching a broad curriculum, maintaining excellent standards of pastoral care and keeping staff members’ professional development training up to date. #prepschoollondon #iaps #iapsmembership #prepschoollife #prepschoolrichmond ...
It’s been another busy week at Broomfield! Our annual Summer Serenade performances showcased the incredible musical talents of our pupils. Kindergarten children enjoyed the hands-on experiences at Holly Lodge, including log rolling, pond dipping, and exploring the life cycle of butterflies. Our Bikeability workshops equipped children with essential road safety awareness and cycling skills. Plus, we made the most of the beautiful weather, spending plenty of time outdoors. #prepschoolrichmond #prepschooloutdoorlearning #prepschoolsummerterm #prepschoollife
It’s been another busy week at Broomfield! Our annual Summer Serenade performances showcased the incredible musical talents of our pupils. Kindergarten children enjoyed the hands-on experiences at Holly Lodge, including log rolling, pond dipping, and exploring the life cycle of butterflies. Our Bikeability workshops equipped children with essential road safety awareness and cycling skills. Plus, we made the most of the beautiful weather, spending plenty of time outdoors. #prepschoolrichmond #prepschooloutdoorlearning #prepschoolsummerterm #prepschoollife ...
This week we enjoyed a fantastic showcase of musical talent at Broomfield. The Summer Serenade performances allowed our children to shine on stage after hours of practice and perseverance. The children have worked really hard all year and this week was a testament to their achievements.
This week we enjoyed a fantastic showcase of musical talent at Broomfield. The Summer Serenade performances allowed our children to shine on stage after hours of practice and perseverance. The children have worked really hard all year and this week was a testament to their achievements. ...
On Thursday 25th April, one of our Year 4 children had the honour of giving a reading at the Cenotaph in London. Anzac Day marks the Gallipoli landings in 1915, as well as commemorating all Australians and New Zealanders who have served and died in military operations.
On Thursday 25th April, one of our Year 4 children had the honour of giving a reading at the Cenotaph in London. Anzac Day marks the Gallipoli landings in 1915, as well as commemorating all Australians and New Zealanders who have served and died in military operations. ...
Warmer weather is finally on its way! This week the children enjoyed outdoor play in the sunshine ☀️
Warmer weather is finally on its way! This week the children enjoyed outdoor play in the sunshine ☀️ ...
We are excited to invite local families to our new stay and play sessions. Our lovely Early Years team will prepare a range of indoor and outdoor activities including arts and crafts, mud kitchen, sand play and a reading corner. The sessions are for children aged 18 months - 3 years old. There is no charge for these sessions but spaces are limited. All welcome! Please book a place via the link in our Instagram bio or send an email to admissions@broomfieldhouse.com. We look forward to welcoming you for a fun session at Broomfield House School! #stayandplay #toddlerstayandplay #earlyyearseducation #nurseryrichmond #nurserysurrey #stayandplaysurrey
We are excited to invite local families to our new stay and play sessions. Our lovely Early Years team will prepare a range of indoor and outdoor activities including arts and crafts, mud kitchen, sand play and a reading corner. The sessions are for children aged 18 months - 3 years old. There is no charge for these sessions but spaces are limited. All welcome! Please book a place via the link in our Instagram bio or send an email to admissions@broomfieldhouse.com. We look forward to welcoming you for a fun session at Broomfield House School! #stayandplay #toddlerstayandplay #earlyyearseducation #nurseryrichmond #nurserysurrey #stayandplaysurrey ...