Part of the Thrive in 465 podcast from Solihull School.

What makes a book stay with us for life, shaping how we think, feel, and see the world?

In this episode, recorded in Solihull School’s 465th year, we celebrate the power of reading, from the picture books that spark imagination to the literature that deepens our empathy, understanding and voice.

Teachers, authors and librarians from across Solihull School reflect on the texts that changed them, and how reading for pleasure is nurtured in every corner of school life.

It’s a reminder that books don’t just teach us; they connect us.

Guests

Dr Stuart Hart, Head of English and Master in charge of Academic Scholars at Solihull Senior School

Mrs Hollie Pemberton, Prep School Librarian and Forest School Teacher

Rachael Wong, former Solihull parent and children's author

Keywords

literature, empathy, resilience, storytelling, education, Solihull School, libraries, understanding, learning, vocabulary

Takeaways

Books are powerful tools for developing empathy and understanding.

Reading can enhance resilience and personal growth.

Storytelling plays a crucial role in education.

Diverse literature helps students see themselves and others in new ways.

Encouraging reading from a young age fosters lifelong learning.

Literature can connect people across different backgrounds.

The school promotes a love of reading through diverse book selections.

Students benefit from seeing diverse characters in literature.

Reading fiction and non-fiction both offer valuable lessons.

The school's library is a hub for fostering a love of reading.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the World of Books

01:09 The Journey from Banking to Writing

01:18 The Importance of Reading for Children

03:50 Exploring Different Genres and Authors

06:25 The Role of Reading in Developing Compassion

10:09 Encouraging a Lifelong Love of Reading

13:50 Book Recommendations and Creative Insights

16:07 Pioneering Spirit in Education

17:10 The Power of Books in Shaping Resilience

18:38 Engagement with Literature: A Modern Perspective

21:05 The Role of Poetry in Education

22:50 Parental Involvement in Reading

23:12 Adapting Storytelling for the Digital Age

25:49 The Importance of Emotional Connection in Reading

27:49 Literature and Emotional Intelligence

30:45 Fiction's Role in Developing Moral Sensibilities

32:17 Shared Experiences Through Literature

34:11 The Value of Children's Literature for All Ages

Part of the Thrive in 465 podcast from Solihull School.

What does it really take to help young people thrive, from their very first steps in education to their final years in school?

In this episode, recorded in Solihull School’s 465th year, we explore how early childhood experiences shape character, confidence, and resilience.

The conversation delves into positive psychology, emotional intelligence, and the vital role schools and parents play in creating calm, kind, and connected environments for children to grow.

From screen time to social pressures, we also examine what today’s children need most to become tomorrow’s change-makers.

Guests

Mr Mark Penney, Head of Solihull Preparatory School

Mrs Suzannah Farnan, Assistant Head (Junior School) Solihull Preparatory School

Keywords

early years, childhood development, positive psychology, resilience, mindfulness, emotional intelligence, happiness, learning, social media, parenting

Takeaways

Positive psychology focuses on strengths and well-being.

Teaching resilience helps children bounce back from challenges.

Mindfulness is a valuable skill for managing emotions.

Happy children tend to be more academically successful.

Parents should model emotional intelligence for their children.

It's important to focus on the process of learning, not just outcomes.

Social media can negatively impact children's self-perception.

Creating a supportive school environment is crucial for child development.

Children need to learn how to navigate challenges early on.

Unlocking children's potential involves teaching them valuable life skills.

Chapters

00:00 Exploring Positive Psychology in Education

03:43 Building Resilience in Children

08:52 The Role of Mindfulness in Learning

14:40 The Connection Between Happiness and Academic Success

20:49 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence

25:39 Creating a Supportive School Environment

29:57 Navigating Modern Challenges: Social Media and Parenting

35:59 Empowering Children to Solve Their Own Problems

Part of the Thrive in 465 podcast from Solihull School.

What does meaningful innovation in education really look like?

In this episode, recorded in Solihull School’s 465th year, we explore how Solihull School is embracing innovation across both the Prep and Senior Schools to prepare pupils for a rapidly evolving world.

From metacognition and AI to oracy and digital literacy, the conversation looks at how we use innovation to enrich - not replace - the human side of learning.

With insights from across our teaching and academic teams, we consider how technology can support critical thinking, enhance creativity, and encourage curiosity, while staying true to our school’s values and long-term mission to help every child thrive.

Guests

Mr Matt van Alderwegen, Director of Assessment & Digital Strategy and History Teacher, Solihull School

Mrs Katherine Robinson, Solihull Senior School Deputy Head (Academic)

Mr Michael Jones, Solihull School Prep School Senior Deputy Head (Academic)

Keywords

Innovation, AI in education, teacher-pupil connection, digital wellbeing, oracy, Green Power Racing, Microsoft Showcase School

Takeaways

Innovation isn’t about gadgets - it’s about curiosity and confidence

AI is used to challenge, not replace thinking

Relationships drive progress more than technology

Digital strategy includes parent sessions and screen balance

Adaptive learning, co-curricular activities and oracy are central to future readines

Chapters

00:00 Setting the Scene for Innovation in Education

02:17 Innovative Programs and Curriculum Development

05:00 Technology Integration in Learning

07:50 Balancing Screen Time and Traditional Learning

10:35 Addressing Parental Concerns on Digital Wellbeing

13:21 AI in Education: Opportunities and Challenges

16:16 Developing Responsible AI Usage Guidelines

19:19 Empowering Teachers with Technology

21:49 Future of AI in Education

24:54 Conclusion and Reflections on Learning

28:55 Empowering Teachers with Technology

30:59 Innovative Teaching Methods in Action

33:21 The Future Classroom: Balancing Technology and Human Connection

36:49 Personalised Learning and Student Agency

39:28 Navigating AI Ethics in Education

42:29 AI: Friend or Foe in Learning?

46:54 The Future of Education: Adaptive Learning

49:30 The Importance of Teacher-Student Relationships