The HMC Podcast

In this episode, Tom Lawson interviews Philip Britton, chair of the HMC, exploring the role of independent schools, collaboration, and the future of education. Discover insights on leadership, community impact, and the importance of belonging within the sector.

The HMC Podcast Series 3 – Intergenerational Host: Tom Lawson, Headmaster, Eastbourne College Guest: Dr Gurusharan Singh Gogna, Teacher of Physics, Applied Mathematics, Enterprise & The STEM Practical Lab – The King’s Hospital School, Dublin The conversation will: explain what the Tech Drive is say something about the practicalities that need to be considered if other schools are looking to do...

Discover how character education is shaping resilient, responsible students and how outdoor and adventurous learning can foster growth. Join educators from the UK, Australia and beyond as they share strategies, challenges, and successes. Key points: The importance of outdoor education and nature for character development (Adam Larby, Dina Hamalis) Embedding character education into school culture...

In this episode of the HMC Podcast, Tom Lawson speaks with Peter Middleton, Head of Oswestry School, about the importance of international partnerships in education. They discuss the impact of student exchanges on personal development, the challenges of safety and parental concerns, and the logistics of organising such programmes. Peter shares insights on building relationships with host families,...

In this episode Simon Jones attended the HMC Autumn Conference at the ICC Wales in Newport. He spoke with Heads from across the UK and overseas, exhibitors showcasing new ideas for schools, and members of the HMC Board themselves. Their conversations covered the value of in-person gatherings, the current challenges and optimism within independent education in 2025, and what it truly means to lead...

In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of educational technology, particularly AI, in schools. They explore the role of 9ine in supporting school leaders with compliance and safeguarding, the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, and the necessity of a human element in integrating technology into education. The conversation emphasises a bottom-up approach to AI implement...

Summary Dominic Kalantary from Vectare joins Simon Jones as they focus on the importance of school transport and technology in education. Dominic shares insights on how Vectare is transforming school transport into a strategic tool for admissions and operational efficiency. Takeaways School transport can be a strategic admissions tool. Many schools have outdated transport networks that need reeval...

Summary In this podcast episode, we explore the transformative experiences offered by Camps International, which provides students with four-week expeditions focused on community, wildlife, and environmental projects. The discussion highlights the importance of preparing students for a changing world, emphasising character development and resilience. The conversation also touches on the role of pa...

Summary This podcast episode discusses the current challenges in education recruitment, particularly focusing on the high turnover of teachers and the differences between independent and state schools. The conversation highlights the need for innovative recruitment strategies and the importance of retention in the education sector. The speakers emphasize the role of technology in streamlining recr...

Summary In this episode of the HMC Podcast, Tom Lawson interviews Frazer Cairns, the School Director at the International School of Lausanne. They discuss the flourishing international education sector in Switzerland, the distinctive political structure of Swiss education, and the significance of multilingualism. Frazer offers insights into the role of international schools, the value placed on vo...

Summary In this episode of the HMC Podcast, Tom Lawson interviews former headmaster Chris Saunders, who shares rich anecdotes and reflections from his time in education. The conversation explores the challenges of headship, the importance of humour and strong relationships with students, and the evolving nature of modern schooling. Chris speaks candidly about his unconventional interview experienc...

Summary This episode of the HMC Podcast explores the importance of partnerships in education, particularly through the lens of the Coastal Schools Partnership. The discussion features insights from teachers and pupils about the collaborative projects that enrich learning experiences, strengthen community ties, and promote environmental awareness. It underscores the value of equal partnerships bet...

Summary In this episode of the HMC podcast, Tom Lawson interviews Tim Dalton about Lumina, a program designed to support looked after children in their education. The conversation explores the challenges faced by these vulnerable young people, the impact of partnerships with local authorities, and the innovative adaptations made during the COVID-19 pandemic. Tim shares insights on measuring academ...

Summary In this conversation, Daisy discusses her daily work in education, focusing on curriculum changes in the UK, the role of comparative judgment assessments, and the integration of AI in educational practices. She emphasises the importance of balancing traditional assessments with innovative methods to enhance student learning and teacher feedback. The conversation also touches on the complex...

Summary In this conversation, Jaideep Barot reflects on his experiences as the Chair of HMC, discussing the recent conference, the importance of camaraderie, and the challenges faced by the education sector. He emphasises the need for partnerships and bursaries to widen access to education, the significance of public perception, and the role of political engagement. Jaideep also shares personal in...

In this episode Simon Jones steps in for Tom Lawson while at the Autumn Conference in Belfast to present a conversation with a number of Heads, exhibitors and the HMC Board themselves. It's a fun episode which gives a genuine insight into the conference. Links online Main website: www.hmc.org.uk This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency

Summary The conversation explores the topics of inclusion, the role of sport in breaking down barriers, and the importance of youth empowerment and engagement in politics. Geoff Thompson shares his journey from a disadvantaged background to becoming a world karate champion and his work in transforming the lives of young people. Aiyaz Ahmed discusses his role in promoting inclusion and diversity at...

Summary The conversation focuses on the value of partnerships between independent and state schools, the impact of AI in education, and the challenges of policy support for independent schools. The conversation explores the creation and purpose of RileyBot, an AI assistant designed to support students aged 9 to 18 with their learning. It delves into the unique features of RileyBot, its role in edu...

#03 - The conversation explores the future of education in schools, focusing on topics such as exams, assessment, and the purpose of education. The guests discuss the role of testing at 16 and 18, the value of traditional exams versus more holistic approaches, and the need for universities to adapt their acceptance criteria. They also touch on the importance of developing skills beyond academics,...

#02 - In this episode, the theme is 'Getting Regional.' The guests discuss the importance of engaging with regional identity as HMC heads, the efficacy of HMC regional groupings, and the influence of London on the economy and independent school sector. They also explore the role of international schools within HMC and the need for collaboration and support among independent schools. The guests sha...

#01 - In this episode Tom Lawson talks to Sue Woodroofe, Principal of the Grammar School at Leeds and Chair of HMC, who discusses the challenges and priorities in the education sector. She highlights the increasing polarisation and politicisation in education and the need to focus on children and their well-being. Sue also explores the potential of harnessing AI in education and the long-term impa...