I am pleased to give an outline of the results and activities for the year ended 1 April 2024.
Review of Activities and Achievements
Over the past 8 years OST has been gaining knowledge, reviewing and renewing contacts and building a team of like minded individuals with the experience and drive to change the landscape in Education moving towards a position where it is best placed to promote the changes needed.
Aims and Objectives
The Oxford School of Thought was founded by educators as a truly independent Primary Education think tank - the first of its kind in the UK - to advance the public exchange of ideas generated and opinions discussed between experts in their field in the world of education. This will include research and much wider distribution and consumption of material. The intention is to have a positive impact on the way that education is delivered, whether state or independent (private).
This report highlights the activities and initiatives undertaken by our organisation in the past year , focusing on the future of primary education. Our mission to drive educational innovation, research, and collaboration has been central to these endeavours. We have engaged with leading experts, partnered with respected institutions, and contributed to key discussions shaping the future of education.
Key Activities and Achievements
-
A comprehensive report was published, exploring emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in primary education. This publication serves as a cornerstone for ongoing debates and discussions within the educational community.
-
In response to this report we held a high-profile discussion event, hosted by the Royal Society for the encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce (RSA). Professor Mick Waters, alongside other esteemed educators, contributed to a vibrant discussion on the future of primary education, sharing insights and best practices.
-
In collaboration with Wild Bore, we supported a unique theatre project aimed at promoting literacy and enhancing reading skills among young children. This project included research into the impact of theatre on reading development, culminating in a series of performances and workshops.
-
Our organization partnered with Oxford University on a significant research project investigating the long-term effects of young children's transition from intrinsic to extrinsic motivation. The project was encapsulated in a paper, for distribution to schools , offering actionable insights for educators.
-
We collaborated with Values-Based Education (VBE) and other key stakeholders to critically assess and consider the current position and practices of OFSTED. This collaboration aimed to influence policy and contribute to a more holistic approach to school inspections.
-
Will Shook from Independent English contributed to our online presence with a new blog and vlog series. These publications explored contemporary issues in education, offering thought-provoking content and practical advice for educators and parents based on his experience in teaching in various settings across the world.
-
In December, we paid tribute to Sir Tim Brighouse, a pioneering figure in education, who passed away. His contributions to the field have left a lasting legacy, and we honoured his memory through dedicated content and events.
-
Throughout the year, we published several newsletters that kept our community informed of our activities, upcoming events, and the latest developments in the education sector.
-
We conducted a series of interviews with school leaders from various educational settings. These interviews provided valuable insights into the challenges and innovations within primary education, informing our future initiatives and reports.
-
We visited Summerhill School and The Treehouse School, both renowned for their unique approaches to the curriculum. These schools have pioneered alternative educational practices that prioritize student autonomy and creativity.
-
Our team also visited The Bealings School and Park Community School, state schools recognized for their innovative approaches to education within their communities. These visits offered a deeper understanding of how state schools are adapting to meet the needs of their students in diverse and dynamic ways.
This year has been one of significant progress and impactful initiatives. Our collaborations, research, and events have contributed to the ongoing discourse on the future of primary education. We remain committed to supporting innovation and excellence in education, and we look forward to building on this year’s achievements in the coming years.
We extend our deepest gratitude to all our partners, collaborators, and supporters who have contributed to our work this year. Together, we are making strides towards a brighter future for primary education.
Structure, Governance and Management
The Oxford School of Thought is a registered Charitable Incorporated Organisation governed by its constitution.
Trustees are recruited for their wide experience and skills to contribute to the achievement and advancement of the Charity's objectives
The following Trustees served throughout the year to 1 April 2024:
Peter Cansell Alexander Cansell Philip Marples
Financial Statements
The receipts and payments during the year to 1 April 2024 are shown below.
As at 1 April 2024 The Oxford School of Thought had charitable assets of *£4787(2023 £815). These assets comprise restricted and unrestricted funds.
*The Oxford School of Thought received a donation of £5000 in November 2023 from The Lennox Hannay Charitable Trust
The Trustees Report and financial statements were approved by the board on 30[th] September 2024.
Signed on behalf of the Trustees
Peter Cansell Chair of Trustees 30[th] September 2024
Cranmer House 10 High Street Wheatley Oxford OX33 1XX
Balance Sheets
| Donation from_The Lennox Hannay Charitable Trust_ Report launch and administration costs 1 April Unrestricted funds: cash at Bank Total Charity Funds Signed on behalf of theTrustees |
£5000 £1028 2024 1 April 2023 £ £ 4787 815. 4787 815 |
£5000 £1028 2024 1 April 2023 £ £ 4787 815. 4787 815 |
|---|---|---|
| 815 | ||
Peter Cansell Chair of Trustees 30[th] September 2023
Cranmer House 10 High Street Wheatley Oxford OX33 1XX