My alumni for nine years … I cannot say I remotely came anywhere near Emma's achievements – however if you look at her life … she is one of the world's great achievers and influencers.
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| Emma Watson in 2013 |
I also hadn't realised she had been at Headington … her recognition (actress, artist, activist – particularly women's rights) occurred when I was in near full-time caring for my mother and uncle … so I was very interested in the email that popped in my inbox this morning … so appropriate for a #WATWB post …
The school has recently opened a Creativity and Innovation Centre: The Hive – putting Creative Thinking at the heart of Headington education.
The image from the website - showing
The Hive, and the Emma Watson Gallery
These are two introductory paragraphs + the first line of the third paragraph:
With the advent of AI and increasing automation of jobs, we believe that future generations must be creative thinkers.
Creativity is a uniquely human and future-proof skill, and we know that increasingly, employers are looking for the whole person and seeking creative minds to solve business problems in a new way.
A twenty-first century education is about thinking beyond graduation, and towards enabling pupils to become the collaborative workers, critical thinkers and creative problem solvers that our future and economy needs.
Creativity is not just about being artistic, it’s the ability to take risks, adapt, innovate, and to have the vision to make ideas a reality.
At Headington, we believe it is crucial to teach these skills from an early age, and to build upon them at each stage of the curriculum.
The Hive is a hub for cross-curricular learning with an emphasis on sustainability, technology and enterprise.
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| Image from The Hive header |
There's a short video – 5 minutes … which is so informative. Gosh! I'd love to be at school now!
Creativity and Innovation Centre:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4eZuXIVAE1A
“We are in the era where jobs that can be digitised and processed by robots, will be –
whereas humans will be called upon to use their creativity, critical thinking, seeing the connection between those complex ideas –
which is what humans can do uniquely.” As implied in the video.
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42 comments:
So much potential in each school student. And caring for your mother and uncle was no small feat. Emma would tell you that. The path of loving service may not be spotlighted in the eyes of the world but consistent acts of compassion are the glue which holds this old battered world together. :-)
Emma Watson is certainly a young lady with a brain and lots of talents. She truly does work to make the world a better place. (and she's a darn good actress who entertains us and makes us think too. She's wise in choosing her roles) This school sounds wonderful. I hope the kids going there appreciate the opportunities and risks they can take to move on in life. Quite the post - thanks!
Reading, writing, 'rthmatic was what school was about when I was growing up. How wonderful that it is expanding, and that your own school has chosen an entirely appropriate person to shout it from the roof tops.
And Roland is right. Your caring efforts (anyone's caring efforts) are also important. Hugely so.
Certainly looks a lot more fun than my sixth form, which was all about academics to the exclusion of all else!
Interesting, now if only I could play the video. One day we might get faster WiFi by then I probably will not know how to use a computer!!!
Take care Diane
How exciting.
@ Roland – yes there is so much potential in each child – here … it looks like they've really expanded the opportunities for each child – love the concepts here; in my day it was more straight subjects … no mixing. But I enjoy seeing how the school develops. Thank you – I realise my time with my mother and uncle were special for them and for me.
@ Joanne – yes … Emma is some achiever – and I was pleased to be able to include the video from the school here; being in Oxford offers other open doors too … thanks for the appreciative comment.
@ EC – yes I think you've summed up school for me too – while learning about this school's opportunities was a great eye-opener – while Emma will continue to inspire many.
Thank you … I realise spending time with my Ma and my uncle were essential – and I so appreciate that time … and both were very grateful for my being there for them.
@ Ian – yes … mine too – and I wasn't an academic! Thank goodness I had sport to see me through …
@ Diane – I'm sorry for your slow WiFi … but you have so many other interesting things going on … in the garden – which is so productive and then enjoying life in France …
@ Sandra – thanks … it was fun to write up …
Cheers to you all – these #WATWB posts … we learn so much about other walks of life … thank you for visiting - Hilary
It is puzzling in a way that schools have taken so long to come to the conclusion that learning involves more than knowing "subjects" well. Equipping someone to be a first class mathematician does not enable that person to fill a wider role in society, and contribute values other than science to it. Some seem to have an inner capacity to seize the mantle of leadership, but most of us would benefit from greater exposure to what it takes to mould a caring, supportive society, something sorely lacking in many countries today. As for Emma Watson, I shamefully confess that I have no idea who she is, but I will watch the video later. And - bravo to you, Hilary, for taking care of two relatives - not an easy task, and involving personal sacrifice I am sure. All the best. David
What a great post for WATWB, Hilary! I love the idea of a "Creativity and Innovation Centre" and the notion of putting creative thinking first. So much of the educational system seems to neglect thinking at all, let alone creative thinking. I hope this school thrives.
If only more schools followed their example. The opening paragraphs and the video are inspirational. Thanks for introducing us to Headington Hillary.
Pretty much everything around us was designed because someone had a creative idea. Those ideas are going to be even more important as we navigate our response to the changing climate.
Wow! I wonder whether my school is doing anything so amazing - doubt it, but you never know.
@ David – I expect because our school system is Government led … not really an inspiring place to set syllabuses from – the private schools (fee paying schools) have the opportunity to do things slightly differently – also usually the kids are better behaved … Some of us had a need for some form mentorship e.g. me – but I had the background to realise what was what.
Emma Watson – was the school girl heroine in the Harry Potter films. Great you'll be watching the film – I hope you'll enjoy it as much as I did.
Thankfully my mother was in a Nursing Centre, but I needed to be there for her – she'd done so much for us as we grew up. She understood I needed too to be around for my uncle – they both appreciated that concern at their time in life.
@ Dan – as a techie 'whizz-kid' you'd understand the Creativity and Innovation Centre – one of the students is working for the Formula One company – McLaren's – as an engineer. I think the school will thrive and survive …
@ Keith – as I noted to David … our system is government controlled … definitely not helpful in the creative thinking mode.
I'm so pleased you found the paragraphs and the video inspirational – I was bowled over to find it … so am very chuffed everyone seems to be interested via their comments.
@ Annalisa – yes … but how many school kids can think out of the box – or adults for that matter … or then research and clarify their thoughts. - which needs clear thinking. But I so agree re our future – we need leaders with an understanding of how we should be moving forward and taking everyone along at the same time, not leaving people behind.
@ Jemima – I really was chuffed at seeing this new innovative centre and the video.
Thanks so much to you all – I'm so pleased at your interest. Cheers Hilary
I appreciate what Emma has done with her life and her Star status. How wonderful to have this kind of legacy to leave for future generations. Thanks for sharing this Hilary!!!!
wonderful post Hilary, loved the video. Truly inspirational. I hope the message gets spread far and wide - time for thinking out the box and using that creative potential ... pretty much of what is drilled into kids is totally counter productive.
I agree totaly with the introductory paragraphs. I is a given that the future of American public schools must move in that direction of be left in the dustbin of history. Emma is a very special woman indeed. Ray
You bet people need to be creative if they hope to survive. They need to think for themselves and try to find and create new ideas that will propel them and all of us forward.
Quite interesting and inspirational. People like Emma, who work selflessly to make this world a better place, are rare nowadays.
Such an interetsing and inspiring post
What a remarkable young woman and a marvellous initiative at the Hive. It's good to know there are inspirational people out there who can still make the world a place of hope and creativity.
I assume Headington is a private school? Yes, they can do things not possible in the state system here in Oz, because state schools are required to get through a set curriculum, and don’t usually have the money to set up a new Creativity and Innovation Centre, alas!
I spent my career working in a disadvantaged state school. The kids are pretty much the same as anywhere else, and there are well organised procedures for handling problems and very good year level co ordinators to do it. I always wanted for my students to have some of the goodies private school kids had, so did what I could, wearing my library hat, to take them to writers festivals, start a lunchtime book club, do book launches, etc, anything I could do with my tiny budget.
I did teach creative writing one year! The kids were mostly not very good at it, but they all thoroughly enjoyed my elective. 🙂
It is amazing, some of the things they do in school nowadays.
I love that there are influencers like Emma, we could do with more like her and fewer Kardashians in media. I love that creativity which was overlooked in many of our schools. Creativity is going to be come important moving into the future and I am glad they are going outside the three R's. Thanks so much for posting this and for being a part of #WATWB. Wishing you a wonderful week! :)
Little Women was beautifully written and so well acted. Emma was a star.
Wonderful post, Hilary. And I salute you for being a carer to your family. My father in law just passed away after a short illness and we cared for him at home for a couple of weeks. I now understand much more than I did.
Love
N
This is an awesome video, Hilary. Thank you for sharing. As a retired educator I strongly echo the importance nourishing and expanding creativity for our students. It truly is the way of the future.
@ Lisa – she has used her talents very wisely … and it was great to see the school naming the Gallery after her … the lucky children at the school will really appreciate her approach to life …
@ Susan – Excellent you watched the video … so I do hope the message spreads its wings. I so agree with you that there's a need for more people to think around the decisions that they make, which then get transferred to the children's way of life …
@ Ray – curricula seems to be constraining doesn't it – without any freedom for thinking freely … and you'd understand being an ex teacher. Emma is one bright spark …
@ Alex – Exactly … people need to think creatively and so often we follow along, without examining 'why' … and we need children to help us move forward …
@ - thanks Pradeep … we need to be inspired as Emma is doing …
@ Jo-Anne – thank you …
@ Val – yes … Emma sets examples for many – and I was impressed with the head-teacher, as well as the other teachers and consultants advice in the video …
@ Sue – Yes … it is a private school … whereas there is little extra money in the state school system here.
I realise you've been teaching in a disadvantaged school … so always enjoy reading your posts … and appreciate that you really helped your pupils with all the outreach ideas you engaged with and were able to offer them.
Creative writing is very difficult … and not easy as one has to let go of so much … I'd like to take a course one day. Great that your kids enjoyed your elective year …
@ Liz – yes … it is strange how government thinks and thus how kids are taught.
@ Belinda – yes … social media celebrity is a strange being – it will be interesting to see where we go with this … I do hope everyone isn't prevailed upon to follow suit – without any thought … Headington has changed from the time I was there … and appears to be setting parameters that inspire others and which can be learnt from …
@ Hels – I'd forgotten about her role in the recent Little Women film …
@ Nas – thank you … when your elders have looked after you through your life I felt it was essential that I was there for them in their last years … it was a very positive experience and was a great mental help for them – I would always be there for them.
@ Donna – oh how wonderful you watched the video … especially as you were a retired educator – so I really appreciate your comment … and as you say – our children are our future.
Thanks so much for all your comment and thoughts – it's encouraging to have them … cheers Hilary
How wonderful! Like you, I'd love to be back in school these days and taking advantage of some of the wonderful opportunities out there!
I am so envious of my twin grandsons; both just starting their university careers. This post has reminded me of how much I enjoyed my school life!
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You always share such down-to-earth (as well as up-to-date) goodness in every nugget of information! Of all the "new" things being taught these days, this is something I would certainly support. Thanks for sharing!
With so many jobs eventually going to automation and AIs, creativity will be what we humans are left with. That, and making the robots. This is an exciting look into the future, and I have a ton of respect for Watson.
That's wonderful that they've opened up and allowed for creativity. Robotic learning was never quite my style.
Creativity is not just about being artistic, it’s the ability to take risks, adapt, innovate, and to have the vision to make ideas a reality.
So true, Hilary. thanks so much for sharing, and for keeping WATWB going. I've dropped out for a while, but hope to reconnect again next year.
@ Elizabeth – thank you … so glad you agree with me – so many opportunities can be offered to school children now – there's much more openness – which is brilliant for their future, and for generally helping new knowledge get out …
@ Bazza – it must be so much fun watching the twins learn … and if I know anything (not much!) teach you at the same time... just wonderful to think about them … especially as they're at university level – presumably they have some of your artistic talent?
@ Deidre – thank you … I've always tried to make my posts easily acceptable, and thus easily absorbed – appreciate it seems to be working. Like you … I most definitely am supportive of this type of creative learning – lucky kids!
@ Shannon – as the Consultant, Dominic Mahoney in the video, states … “creativity will be essential, as too critical thinking and seeing the connections between complex ideas – these are what we, as humans, can do uniquely”.
Yes Emma Watson is being inspirational in her adult life … fascinating to watch her …
@ Rosey – so much positivity will come from this Centre … but there will be robots – hopefully for all the 'grunge' jobs, but helping experts too to make jobs quicker to achieve.
@ Damyanti - so good to see you ... Your idea of #WATWB is amazing - I learn so much from the various posts, and those I want to write about ... sometimes it's difficult to make a choice for each month. It'll be lovely having you back with us next year ...
Your comment: "Creativity is not just about being artistic, it’s the ability to take risks, adapt, innovate, and to have the vision to make ideas a reality." certainly sums the post up - thank you ...
Thanks so much to you all for visiting and appreciating what Headington School is doing for its pupils and no doubt the world ahead … cheers Hilary
Thanks for sharing this wonderful initiative. Emma Watson is setting a great example for the youngers. NOw I'm off to watch the video! Hugs xx
Regarding the twins: One is very creative and is taking a degree in computer game design at Falmouth; the other is high-functioning autistic with a highly-developed social conscience. He is studying criminology at Lincoln.
This was perfect! "Creativity is not just about being artistic, it’s the ability to take risks, adapt, innovate, and to have the vision to make ideas a reality."
Maybe you should revisit that alma mater of yours and sit in on some of those classes. It would be quite an experience. I've been sorely tempted to do that a few times.
You've chalked up another great post, Hilary.
Your alma mater seems to understand what the future will need from its students. I hope others will follow their example.
"Creativity is a uniquely human and future-proof skill." How wonderful that this ability are coming to the fore and that your school has recognized the need.
I always love learning!
Such an interesting post. Thanks for sharing. :)
Hope your week is fantastic!
~Jess
Creativity really is uniquely human. I read a couple paragraphs written by AI to imply that AI could even write novels. But, no, I could tell.
@ Debbie – there's lots of ideas here for all of us to think about – and I'm sure you'll have enjoyed the video …
@ Bazza – thanks so much for coming back and letting me know how the twins are doing … interesting campuses they've decided to enrol with – fascinating … while their subjects must be so interesting to hear about ...
@ Lee – I'd love to visit some of those classes – but I guess visitors would be somewhat distracting! If I could I most definitely would …
Thanks for your support …
@ Susan – yes … I've been impressed with the school – it seems to be very much a school in its times …
@ Debbie – I so agree some of the words, sentences and phrases seem to embrace the needs of today …
@ Jess – thank you … the future of the school seems to be well guided and led …
@ Jen – yes … we are creative aren't we – I agree … I doubt you'd be able to read it, and most definitely not enjoy it …
Great to see you all … thanks for your visit – cheers Hilary
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