Rachel Batty - Head of Sixth Form

Rachel Batty - Head of Sixth Form IB programme at Regents a real example of an excellent course in life. On taking up the position of Head of Sixth Form at Regents, I was delighted to hear that during my first half term at the school I would be spending two weeks accompanying Year 12 and Year 13 IB students on residential trips.

 This was clearly a fantastic chance to discover some of the wonders of Thailand, learn something of its rich culture and send envy-inducing photos to former colleagues; but more importantly, a wonderful opportunity to put names to faces, come to know the students as individuals and learn something of the character of Regents.

The Round Square ethos and the IB philosophy complement each other perfectly and so, opportunities for adventure, service and team work were very much a part of both trips. However, so was the emphasis on the demands of IB Diploma and the need for a focused approach to studying. How we face challenges, be they in or out of the classroom, reveals a lot about one’s character. The qualities which ensure academic success are often the same as those which are needed to thrive in other situations. We need to be prepared to take risks, find creative solutions to problems, work together and see something through. Students (and staff) were sometimes pushed beyond their comfort zone: tackling a steep climb, crossing rivers, teaching English to young children in a local Primary School, tumbling from a raft, speaking in front of an audience. What was clear from both the Year 12 and Year 13 trip was that Regents’ students and staff embrace new experiences; they are good-humoured, resilient and supportive of each other. They recognise that they are privileged to be part of such a school and that with this privilege comes a responsibility to give something back. This is a school where we can take risks in a safe and supportive environment.

You can read more about each of these trips in this edition of the newsletter. Thank you to all staff and students who made both residential trips so enjoyable.