‘Kimbolton Learning DNA’ promotes extensive knowledge and understanding, self-challenge and stretching curiosity and discovery. One of the Senior Leaders at the forefront of the Kimbolton Learning DNA strategy is Mr Chipperton, the Assistant Head (Teaching), so the Kimboltonian Termly Review editorial team asked him a few questions to find out more.

How would you describe our new Learning DNA in your own words?

Our Learning DNA is a statement of shared intent and ambition. It is a set of principles and behaviours that define what we do on a daily basis. While we are all individuals, we operate and grow within a learning community at Kimbolton School.

The Learning DNA directs us towards a common language and guides us towards a direction for learning. As such, we can acknowledge where and when we are thinking collaboratively, embracing challenge, and stirring curiosity. Learning at school should spark enquiry and deep thinking – that’s what makes it fun! For me, in my role, the Learning DNA means that I’m able to support teachers to take risks, share ideas and lesson resources, and hone the art of teaching – because if we can achieve this together, students will thrive.

What inspired the school to create this Learning DNA?

The Learning DNA seeks to reflect the non-negotiables of our learning community. It came from the desire to articulate what great learning looks like in our context. We wanted a shared language – something which reflects our school values and helps each and every one of us towards understanding the principles that underpin effective learning and teaching. It’s not about adding another initiative but about clarifying and celebrating what matters most in the classroom. And to be honest, it extends beyond the threshold to the classroom. Learning takes place in many forms and in many places at Kimbolton School, and we aimed to create something which is consistent, easily comprehensible, initiates dialogue between teachers and students and facilitates ownership and independence of learning.

Our Learning DNA includes attitudes towards what we want to become, what we are, and what we promote. Which of the three do you personally think will be the most beneficial to the Kimbolton ‘one school one family’ environment and why?

If I must pick from the three, then it would be ‘what we promote.’ It is my firm belief that a core set of principles provides a unifying common thread across year groups, subject areas, and roles. Values create a community. For example, if we promote positive values, there is a greater likelihood that we are kind, resilient, patient, and reflective. As learners, we model respect, curiosity, and collaboration every day, so that we are able to embrace obstacles as opportunities. What we promote allows us to grow as individuals and as a wider community. While aspirations and identity are important, I believe that strong values make for good people, and that’s what I want at Kimbolton.