Independently Speaking: The ISA Podcast

Claires Court and the Future of EdTech in Independent Schools

In this episode of Independently Speaking, host Helen Stanton-Tonner, ISA Director of Education and Inclusion, is joined by staff from Claires Court School in Maidenhead—a leader in independent school EdTech. Together, they explore how the school embraced digital transformation, the tools they’ve implemented, and how technology is reshaping teaching, STEM education, school operations, and student engagement.
Guests James Wilding (Academic Principal), Jawad Laouira, Leanne Kirby, and Malcolm Weier share the journey of Claires Court into tech-forward learning, offer practical advice for schools looking to innovate and reflect on the future of AI and digital platforms in independent education.

Innovative and Inclusive Online Learning

Sophia High School is an accredited British online school, delivering the English National Curriculum for ages 4 to 18. Join us as we sit down with Founder and CEO, Melissa McBride to explore a truly modern school offering daily online lessons with qualified British teachers, small class sizes for personalised learning, and innovative use of technology including VR, AI, and esports. With a strong focus on wellbeing, inclusivity, and global accessibility, the school supports diverse learners through interactive teaching and close parental engagement.

Annual Conference Day 2 with ISA Chair, Natasha Dangerfield

Listen as we reflect on day 2 of our Annual Conference held 7-10 May in Harrogate. This episode features ISA Chair Natasha Dangerfield, who discusses the vital importance of authenticity in the role of a headteacher. In addition, we hear from several of our members as well as some ISA Gold Suppliers who exhibit at our conferences. Hear the latest trends, tools, and tips to help you run your school.
Anderson Quigley | Renaissance | Fundraising Consultants | Perry Uniform | SDS | Unifrog | Twedex

Annual Conference Day 1 with Rudolf Eliott Lockhart

Join us for a recap of the first day of our Annual Conference held 7-10 May in Harrogate. In this episode, hear from ISA CEO, Rudolf Eliott Lockhart, as he discusses what makes our members unique and the benefit that our conferences bring to ISA. In addition, we hear from several of our members as well as some ISA Gold Suppliers who exhibit at our conferences. Hear the latest trends, tools, and tips to help you run your school.Novuna (conference sponsor) | apetito | Imago | Class Technology | Penningtons Manches Cooper | Innermedia | TES | MSP Lab | Modulek

Harnessing AI in independent schools with Darren Coxon from Kompass Education

Recorded live at the ISA Annual Conference in Harrogate, this episode features Darren Coxon, founder of Kompass Education, discussing how independent schools can effectively integrate AI. After delivering his keynote speech at the conference, 'Making Room for AI', Darren joined us to unpack large language models (LLMs) and share practical advice on making AI work within the education sector, tailored for headteachers navigating this evolving landscape. Connect with Darren on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/darren-coxon/) or the Kompass Education website at www.kompass.education/

Balancing AI innovation and safe use of technology in the classroom with Laura Knight

In this episode, we begin our new series centred around the use of technology in independent schools. Joining us this week is Laura Knight, the founder of Sapio Ltd, '...a consultancy and learning organisation working at the forefront of digital transformation in education.' We discuss how AI can enhance learning experiences while addressing the critical challenges of online safety for students and educators. Join us as we unpack practical strategies, emerging trends, and the future of technology in independent schools.

School Spotlight: Liberty Woodland School

Join us on a journey into the heart of outdoor education as Helen Stanton-Tonner, Director of Education and Inclusion at the Independent Schools Association, tours Liberty Woodland School alongside its Head, Leanna Barrett. Located on a vibrant 3-acre site in South London, Liberty Woodland School is pioneering a unique learning approach, harnessing nature's power to foster personal, social, and emotional development. Discover how this innovative school is redefining the boundaries of education and inspiring a new generation of learners.

Wellbeing in Education: A conversation with Michelle Catterson and Christine Cunniffe

In the final episode of our series on mental wellbeing in independent schools, we are joined remotely by two dynamic leaders: Michelle Catterson, Executive Head of Moon Hall Schools Trust and Christine Cunniffe, Principal at LVS Ascot.

Half Term Break

We hope everyone had an enjoyable half term break. We will return on 18 March to finish our series on mental health in independent schools.

Home away from home: Mental health and boarding life at TASIS England

This week we travel to the beautiful campus of TASIS England (The American International School) in Surrey where we are joined by Elaine Luckham (Deputy Director of Boarding and Mentoring), Tim Wainwright (Deputy Director of Boarding and Activities), and Daniel Giannini (Lead Houseparent and Mental Health Lead) to discuss the unique benefits and challenges facing pupils attending boarding schools, and the staff that supports them.