On Saturday 8 February we hosted our annual Parent Partnership Conference, to coincide with the end of Children’s Mental Health Week. The event was a resounding success, providing parents with valuable insights, comprehensive support and practical guidance on raising teenage boys.
The conference began in the Erskine May Hall with a warm introduction from two Lower Sixth Formers, Henry Gillham and George Gutteridge who explained to the audience that, “The single most powerful force for young people is a strong relationship with a caring adult.” They also expressed their gratitude, saying, “As teenage boys, we don’t often say it, but please know that we are all hugely appreciative of the support you all give us.”
The conference began with a variety of breakout talks, each offering unique perspectives and advice. Parents each chose to attend one talk from the following:
- Online Safety: Paul Scullion, Director of Digital Learning, discussed strategies for keeping children safe online, now and in the future.
- Effective Study Skills: Tina Thompson, Head of Academic Support, led an interactive session on study skills and revision strategies, particularly beneficial for parents of neurodiverse children.
- Understanding Anxiety: Amanda Horlick-Coutts, Lead Counsellor, and Claire Collins, School Nurse, explored the causes of anxiety and ways to manage it.
- Guidance on Parties and Festivals: Harriett Mather, Criminal Defence Solicitor, and Fiona Whiteman, Housemaster, provided guidance on legal matters relating to alcohol and drugs.
After the breakout talks, parents returned to the Erskine May Hall for the highlight of the morning, the keynote speech by Tina Lond-Caulk, known as The Nutrition Guru. Her talk, entitled ‘Eat Well and Feel Great: The Science of Nutrition for Improved Academic and Physical Performance’ provided parents with actionable advice to support their sons’ overall wellbeing.
Panel Discussion and Questions & Answers
The conference concluded with a panel discussion and a question-and-answer session, allowing parents to submit questions online anonymously. This interactive segment was led by Fiona Whiteman and Sam Baldock, Vice Master, providing a platform for open and honest dialogue.
Parent Feedback
The feedback from parents was overwhelmingly positive. One parent, attending their fourth conference, remarked that the event was “extremely informative in a wide range of subjects and really helpful.” Another parent appreciated the online safety session, noting that it helped “bridge the gap between the digital world our sons have grown up in and our own knowledge from growing up in a very different world.” Regarding the keynote speech, a parent commented, “Tina Lond-Caulk’s talk on nutrition was eye-opening. We now understand the significant impact of diet on our son’s performance and wellbeing.”
The conference wrapped up with lunch in the Café Bar, offering a chance for parents to discuss the morning’s insights over a hot meal. On the menu was a special ‘Nutrition Workshop Lunch’ cooked up by our school caterers, Chartwells. It included a tuna pasta bake to promote brain health, with a kimchi salad full of pre and probiotics to improve gut health. For dessert there was a yoghurt station with a selection of toppings aimed at improving heart health.
We are grateful to all parents who attended and contributed to making this event a success and look forward to continuing our partnership with parents to support our boys’ growth and development. Look out for the next Parent Partnership event in the weekly bulletin.
