BIRMINGHAMTHEBLUECOATSCHOOL1722

This week, I found myself pausing to reflect on our beloved School. As Headmaster, I’m endlessly proud of our accomplishments, the academic triumphs, the musical brilliance, the sporting achievements, but amidst the bustle, there’s moments for deeper reflection. And, as is often the case in schools, perspectives on how we do things can vary. Parents, Governors, Old Scholars, the wider community, they all bring their own lens to the picture. That’s life: wonderfully diverse and, at times, delightfully challenging.

There’s a saying attributed to the poet John Lydgate (and made famous by Lincoln): “You can please some of the people all of the time, you can please all of the people some of the time, but you can’t please all of the people all of the time.” Whether it’s about sanctions for a misdemeanour, the selection of a sports team, or who gets the spotlight in a musical recital, these differing viewpoints can sometimes cause ripples.

As both a father and Headmaster, I have the privilege of seeing things from both sides. I understand that, as parents, you want the very best for your child and so you should! It’s a sentiment I share deeply. But I must say, with hand on heart, that our dedicated staff, from teachers to support staff, are unwavering in their commitment to every single child. They pour themselves into this vocation and it shows in all aspects of School life.

At BCS, our commitment is simple yet profound: to give every child the gift of opportunity. My mantra has always been that a child only gets one chance at their childhood. Here at BCS, we strive to go above and beyond to make it a memorable and enriching one. This ethos is woven into the fabric of our School. We respect children, and I believe firmly in the Golden Rule: to treat others as we wish to be treated ourselves. C.S. Lewis once observed, “Children are not a distraction from more important work; they are the most important work.” This resonates deeply with me, both as a father and as your Headmaster. Our children take their cues from us, at home, at school, and beyond, and we must set the right example.

I have the privilege of sitting with staff at year-group meetings, discussing your children in detail. Let me assure you, they know them – their quirks, their challenges, their triumphs. They care. I’ve spoken to parents from other highly reputable schools across Birmingham and beyond, and I can say without hesitation that the thought and consideration that go into decisions here at BCS are extraordinary.

It reminded me of a moment I recently experienced as a parent. I wasn’t entirely sure about a course of action at my son’s school. Instead of jumping to conclusions, I chose to “be curious, not judgmental,” borrowing from Walt Whitman. When I listened carefully, I found myself empathising with the school’s decision. Listening and communicating are arts in themselves. To the small minority of parents who might question a decision here or there, I extend a genuine invitation: come and chat. I’m here to listen, to learn, and to find common ground. At the very least, you will be heard.

What we’ve achieved at BCS fills me with immense pride. Yes, hard decisions are part and parcel of leadership, but please know that every choice we make is guided by one principle: what is best for the children. Together, we are strong. Together, we can continue to be a School that others look to with admiration – a School where care, commitment, and collaboration flourish.

BCS truly is a School like no other. Just ask our Old Scholars, whether they left last year or a decade ago. They’ll tell you. So let’s be bold and courageous in our shared mission to nurture and support our wonderful pupils.

Wishing you a happy and restful weekend!