SWPS Spotlight

In this episode, Simon speaks with Dr Nasser and a group of students taking part in the SEEd Young Changemakers programme at SWPS. The conversation explores how the initiative helps students develop practical sustainability projects while building confidence, communication, and leadership skills. Episode highlights What the SEEd Young Changemakers programme is and how it works Why the students cho...

To mark British Science Week, Year 12 students Liuba, Ellie and Genevieve turn the tables on their teachers - Dr Nasser, Mr Lawson, Ms Struebing and Miss Bahd - in a lively reverse quiz. Their thoughtful questions open fascinating discussions on consciousness, toxicity, the possibility of alien life and future STEM pathways. A brilliant showcase of student curiosity and scientific thinking. Key to...

Welcome to the SWPS Podcast – where we celebrate the experiences that make our students world-ready. Today, we’re shining a spotlight on the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at Sir William Perkins’s School. This incredible programme gives students opportunities beyond the classroom, builds confidence, and teaches skills for life that truly set them apart. We’ll be hearing from students who are taking par...

Summary In this episode of SWPS Spotlight, we celebrate two exceptional Year 12 student-athletes: Taylor, an England Talent Pathway hockey goalkeeper currently competing at National League Level, and Sophie, proudly selected to represent Ireland in the U17 Europe Netball Championships. Joined by our Director of Sport, Mr Brown, they share what it truly takes to balance academic excellence with spo...

Summary In this engaging conversation, Sierra and Ashbury, share their academic journeys, personal growth, and experiences at SWPS. They discuss their impressive A-level results, memorable moments from school, and the leadership opportunities that shaped their confidence. As they transition to university life, they reflect on their aspirations in physics and the importance of balancing academics w...

Summary In this episode, Dr Rachel Fentem shares her journey from being a student at Sir William Perkins’s School to becoming a diplomat and soon-to-be ambassador. She reflects on her various roles within the UK government, the impact of her education in classics on her professional development, and the vital role of cultural understanding in diplomacy. Rachel underscores the importance of pursuin...

Join us in this insightful episode as we explore the transformative journey of SWPS transitioning to a co-educational school. Dr Steven Berryman and Heather O'Connor discuss the motivations, challenges, and exciting opportunities that come with this significant change. Discover how the school is preparing its staff and students for a new era of inclusive education. Key Highlights: The rationale be...

Summary This conversation explores the Peter Jones Foundation's Tycoon Challenge, an initiative aimed at fostering entrepreneurial skills among students. The discussion includes insights from teachers and students about the challenge, their business ideas, the lessons learned, and the importance of sustainability. The conversation also touches on the broader educational opportunities for developin...

Summary This conversation explores the importance of oracy in education, with a particular focus on how it supports students’ communication skills, self-confidence, and overall academic achievement. The discussion features insights from both educators and students, highlighting the practical use of oracy in school settings, the value of extracurricular involvement, and the crucial role parents pla...

Summary In this podcast episode, Dr Steven Berryman and Ms Picton discuss the future of education, focusing on the balance between innovation and pupil well-being, the need for assessment reform, the impact of artificial intelligence, and the value of interdisciplinary learning. They stress the importance of preparing pupils for an unpredictable future while ensuring they enjoy their educational e...

Summary In this conversation, Bex shares her inspiring journey from being a passionate athlete to becoming a firefighter. She discusses her early influences in sport, her experiences competing at elite levels, and the challenges she faced due to injuries. Bex highlights the importance of community, mentorship, and resilience, offering valuable life lessons for both teenagers and adults considerin...

Summary This conversation explores the Model United Nations (MUN) experience from the perspectives of students and their teacher. The discussion covers the structure of MUN, the process of debating global issues, personal growth through participation, and the impact of attending conferences. The students share their experiences, challenges, and aspirations, highlighting the importance of understan...

Summary This discussion delves into the significance of VE Day, particularly in light of its 80th anniversary, through the perspective of students engaging with historical documents and personal reflections. Pupils share their experiences of learning from letters written during the war, emphasising the emotional impact and the importance of understanding history. The conversation also considers th...

Summary In this podcast episode, we discuss effective revision strategies for students. The conversation covers the importance of retrieval practice, various techniques such as mind maps, brain dumps, flashcards, and low stakes quizzing, as well as the Pomodoro technique for efficient studying. The experts emphasise the role of parents in supporting their children's revision and the significance o...

Summary This podcast episode explores the vital role of sustainability and climate change education within schools. Featuring insights from educators and students, the conversation highlights the importance of integrating sustainability into the curriculum, empowering students as agents of change, and fostering a culture of environmental awareness. The discussion also covers various initiatives un...

Summary In this podcast episode, Simon Jones engages with Emily White, Head of Drama at SWPS, and two Year 12 drama students, Erin and Nina. They discuss the structure and offerings of the drama programme at SWPS, the transition from Lower School to A-Level Drama, and the personal experiences of the students. The conversation highlights the importance of drama in building confidence, social skills...

Summary In this episode, Simon Jones hosts a conversation with Laura, a current Year 13 student, and Anne, an alumna from the 1960s, to celebrate the 300th anniversary of SWPS. They discuss their experiences at the school, the evolution of education, the importance of pastoral care, and the extracurricular activities that shaped their school lives. The conversation highlights the contrasts between...

Summary This conversation explores the rowing programme at Sir William Perkins's School (SWPS), highlighting the impressive facilities, the achievements of student athletes Annabel and Emily, and the vital role of coaching in their success. The discussion also delves into the balance between academics and athletics, the importance of discipline over motivation, and the future opportunities availab...

Summary In this episode the school celebrates the 300th anniversary of Sir William Perkins's School, focusing on Project 300, which emphasises community engagement, volunteering, and the importance of alumni connections. Tricia Tyler and Dr Steven Berryman discuss the school's initiatives to give back to the community, the significance of maintaining relationships with alumni, and the exciting eve...

Welcome to our new podcast. This is an exciting new venture and we're really looking forward to bringing you engaging content for you to hear. If you have any questions about what's coming up, or if you'd like to be a guest on a future episode, then do please just get in touch. But in the meantime, please click the option to follow or subscribe and the first episode will be delivered straight to...