Series 2 - Episode 1 - A conversation with Dominic Norrish

Heads Talks · 2025-06-13

45:42

Our first guest on Series 2 is Dominic Norrish, the Chief Executive of IAPS (The Independent Association of Preparatory Schools), a leading voice in the UK independent education sector. With a career that spans teaching, school leadership, and digital innovation, Dominic brings a unique blend of pedagogical insight and strategic vision to his role. Today, Dominic champions the value of prep schools within a changing educational and societal landscape, supporting hundreds of member schools to adapt, lead and thrive.

Simon speaks with Dominic about the critical role of early education in shaping a child's future. They explore the evolving landscape of education—from the rise of AI to the growing importance of emotional regulation and holistic human development. They discuss the challenges parents face in choosing the right school, and the need for strong teaching and leadership. The conversation also touches on changing approaches to assessment, the financial pressures on schools, and why adapting to new realities must not come at the cost of children’s emotional wellbeing or their love of learning.Credits:

Produced, edited and mixed by Yusuf Johnson

Heads Talks

Welcome to Heads Talks. In Series 1, we speak with senior school headteachers about their vision for education, the strategic priorities guiding their schools, and the personal values that drive them. These conversations offer rare insight into how today’s leaders are shaping the future of education, fostering innovation, and addressing the evolving needs of young people.

Series 2 turns the spotlight onto the early years and primary education. Too often seen as a warm-up act to the 'real thing,' these early stages are in fact the main event. We explore why the first years of school are critical for shaping long-term development, academic success and emotional wellbeing. Our guests include Headteachers, sector leaders and educational thinkers who explain how high-quality early education builds strong foundations, and why investment at this stage pays lifelong dividends.

Whether you’re a parent choosing a school, an educator reflecting on your practice, or someone simply passionate about education, Heads Talks opens up the thinking behind the leadership that is shaping young lives.

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