This pandemic has demonstrated the value and resilience of independent schools in London

Harriet Connor-Earl, Headmistress of St Mary’s School Hampstead, looks at the lessons learned over the past year.

Back in March 2020, no one could imagine the far-reaching repercussions that a national lockdown would have on the children of today. Nor could any educationalist predict the additional challenges that would be faced by all schools during this time.

Immediately, I set to work with my Senior Leadership Team to deliver an enriching distance learning programme, while still keeping the school open for children of key workers. But, this was just the first of many unforeseen tests.

At times, these tests seemed formidable, but never unmanageable. We put in place contingency plans to ensure that pupil numbers remained strong, staff morale stayed high, pupils were fully supported and an exciting curriculum was delivered that fully stretched the children academically. Alongside this, we successfully prepared our Year 6 girls for their 11+ exams.

As we reflect upon the last year, it has become clear that this period has amplified the indomitable spirit and determination of the pupils, staff and parents at St Mary’s School. And, I know we’re not alone.

Independent schools in London, and all over the country, rose to these complex and multifaceted demands swiftly and with professionalism. It’s this rapid response and determination that our children’s education and well-being would not be penalised that highlighted the inestimable value of independent education.

Before a global pandemic was even a possibility, many independent schools had implemented significant investment programmes to deliver the most up-to-date teaching for pupils. Tools such as Microsoft Teams and Google Classroom were being used, albeit on a smaller, ad-hoc scale.

As everyone was compelled to make the transition from the physical to the virtual world, it was this forward-thinking investment in technology that enabled entire schools to immediately pivot to accessing engaging lessons remotely. In turn, we must recognise that our school communities were incredibly fortunate to have ready access to computers, fast internet and the support of capable families who also adapted at pace.

Academic excellence is a key expectation of any independent school. But, it is the extra-curricular opportunities that play a crucial role in our children’s development; helping them to discover their strengths and passions.

From the first day of lockdown learning, teachers delivered a full timetable across a wide-ranging curriculum. I was delighted that music, art and sports continued to be an essential part of online school life. In particular, pupils in Nursery and pre-prep years benefited from the routine and personalised learning that they received from their teachers.

The varied technology found in many independent schools has also proved instrumental in overcoming restrictions. Pupils normally enjoy a plethora of trips to London’s museums and galleries to support our creative curriculum. Thanks to the VR headsets in the St Mary’s STEAM Centre, our programme of trips has continued. Children can visit anywhere in the world, virtually, at the click of a button.

Far from technology replacing the skills of a teacher, this experience has highlighted how our talented and dedicated staff have enthusiastically deployed technologies. Feedback was transformed too. Written marking remained, but was enhanced by voice notes and video messages. The acceleration of digital learning will allow us to embrace a blended approach, such as setting stimulating work on Google Classroom when a teacher is away. The possibilities are seemingly endless, and certainly exciting.

Although online learning is no substitute for the classroom, the benefits for many pupils have been tangible. Not only have children increased their technological fluency, but it has also inspired creativity and collaboration. Online provision has helped pupils to increase their independence and take more ownership of their learning journey. This is a vital skill as they move through school and life more generally.

We’ve discovered other valuable lessons along the way.

In June 2020, when all schools were first allowed to re-open for specific years, but limited to bubbles of fifteen, the smaller class sizes enjoyed within the independent sector enabled us to welcome these age groups back straightaway. This meant we were able to work easily and safely within the guidelines and offer a continuous education for pupils.

The flexibility of the slightly longer school day in independent schools has meant that we have been able to modify our timetable for the benefit of the children, especially after we moved back to online learning in January 2021. Staff identified the impact of the shorter daylight hours on pupils. We responded by adding three sessions a week for well-being during the middle of the day. This allowed families to enjoy 90 minutes to come away from their computers to take part in fun and rewarding activities together.

Furthermore, by moving to interactive Virtual Visits, the admissions process has been enhanced for prospective parents at the start of their school search. Although online events are never able to truly convey the joy of walking through the doors of a school and meeting the wonderful pupils, the feedback received is overwhelmingly positive. The flexibility of the online approach means that more frequent and convenient events can be set up across lunchtimes, evenings and weekends to increase accessibility for working parents, especially those still overseas.

Outstanding independent schools will always endeavour to support pupils in all areas of their lives. We have the resources to care for and nurture them as unique individuals. Our overriding hope is that pupils will emerge from this time strengthened and having acquired new talents.

Nevertheless, independent schools are more than the teaching that happens within the building. A school is a community of people who come together to achieve a common goal and a shared interest in providing the very best opportunities for the children. The teachers at St Mary’s School Hampstead and the pupils under their care have continued to thrive in these challenging circumstances by virtue of our resilience and commitment as a community.

St Mary’s School Hampstead offers an outstanding and inspirational Catholic education for girls 2-11 years. Find out more about this remarkable school at: www.stmh.co.uk

This article first appeared in the 2021/22 edition of Which London School? & the South-East, which you can read here: