Thoughts from the Study
Microchecking
Earlier this week, I found myself glancing at a work email during bath time, much to the annoyance of my endlessly patient partner, Sally. She was in the midst of trying to single handily dry Indigo with a towel with one hand, and gently taking away the bubble bath, all the while singing the “Gingerbread Man” song. Understandably, I quickly lost the debate as I attempted to justify my reasons for checking my phone during such a pivotal moment in our bedtime routine.
In the whirlwind pace of family life, my Google phone provides me with round-the-clock access to school life, serving as a powerful tool to remain connected and consequently, available at all hours. This week, for instance, I made the ill-advised decision to read a message at 2 a.m. Many of us have been there, resulting in a night of poor sleep quality as our minds whirl, trying to process the new information. Having observed my own phone habits evolve, I have seen first hand how these super sleek devices continue to shape our days. They allow less important aspects of the digital world to encroach upon previously analogue moments where it is crucial to unplug and be present. It is fascinating to note that we now spend an average of 3 hours and 15 minutes daily with our noses buried in our screens. I remain astonished yet empathetic towards our train culture, where 99% of travellers are engrossed in their phones, thumbs flicking away at speed.
My own capacity to absorb new content from social media is limited, leading me to actively avoid platforms that aggressively target users with hyper-personalised content, such as TikTok. From what I gather, much of TikTok is filled with various individuals, celebrities or otherwise, engaging in synchronised dancing for others to emulate. Given my decidedly below-average dancing skills (or so I am told), I steer clear of the platform.
Taking a closer look at the UK, where the digital dance has quickened its pace, the time spent on smartphones has elegantly leapt in duration, with the average user checking their device for 3 hours and 15 minutes on daily basis in 2024. This uptick is a testament to how these devices have become interwoven into the very fabric of our lives, giving the impression that the world spins faster each day. Information overload is not a new phenomenon, I am sure the library of Alexander when it first opening back in 285BC had the same impact. Yet with the sheer volume of content now at our fingertips, it is likely we are bombarded with more trivial information than ever before.
Since my bath time revelation, I have been pondering the concept of ‘microchecking’ and those brief glances at our phone screens to check a notification that, more often than not, spiral into a 15-minute diversion through emails, social media, or the latest news. It is a habit, one that feels as reflexive as blinking. At times, I find myself reaching for my phone just to ensure it is close by, almost like a loyal companion. My Labrador, by comparison, seems unimpressed; surely, his role is to be my most faithful friend, he would never begrudge me a phone check during his bath time.
What I have noticed is that these fleeting moments can accumulate, quietly nibbling away at my time. It is akin to finding crumbs in your pocket, a subtle reminder of a snack you do not recall eating. If these interactions do not enrich our lives, why do we engage in them?
I have tallied these ‘microcheck’ moments and realised they amount to a staggering sum of time over a year. It is a wake-up call, recognising that the time spent in these digital interludes could be woven into something more fulfilling, more tangible. Imagine the books that could be read, the languages that could be learnt, or the sunsets that could be savoured – all in the time we often spend tethered to our screens.
This is not to say that smartphones are the villains in our lives. They connect us, inform us, and entertain us. Yet, there is a certain allure in reallocating some of that screen time to moments that make our hearts sing a bit louder. Perhaps I need to strive harder for balance, to be more acutely aware of my ‘microchecking’ moments, focusing less on habit and more on choice.
The fact remains that, regardless of how aggressive the marketing of new technology might be, we all have a choice. I read a wonderful LinkedIn post this week (case and point!) about a café in Holland where phone use is unheard of. The customers there engage in knitting, writing, drawing, debating, and enjoying pure, non-digital, human interaction, free from the interruption of notifications.
As we navigate the digital currents, it is worth contemplating how we can make our screen time more meaningful. As adults, it is essential that we set a precedent for our children to follow. If we spend the majority of our time, while with them on our devices, we should not be surprised when they ask to use it themselves or eventually ask for their own. This debate, of course, is for another edition of Thoughts from the Study.
All the 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 ...