A YORK head teacher has warned that schools must prepare children for the future – not just for exams.

Helen Todd, head of Bootham Junior School in Rawcliffe Lane, made the comments at the annual conference of the Independent Association of Prep Schools.

She told delegates: “Education is about far more than Maths and English. We must not simply prepare children for a set of exams.

“We should be interested in growth and development of young people who are actively and thoughtfully involved in the world around them - who understand the challenges and are equipped to find solutions.”

Mrs Todd was addressing colleagues from across the country at the conference held in the Celtic Manor Hotel, Newport.

She said: “Our pupils are our future leaders, world shapers and change-makers and they will need a set of knowledge and skills that goes beyond any standard curriculum.

“Education alone is not enough; it is education with values that matters.”

Mrs Todd acknowledged that independent schools had a greater opportunity to adapt their curriculum to keep pace with the changing needs of their pupils.

She said: “Independent prep schools have been pioneers in incorporating languages, art and sport into our curriculum but pioneers cannot stand still. A good education is one that evolves and adapts to the needs of its children and the wider community.

“We must consider if our curriculum is truly fit for purpose in today’s world and – thanks to our independence – we can return to our schools and make changes where they are needed.

“Education alone is not enough; it is education with values that matters.”

Helen Todd is the head of Bootham Junior School and vice-chairman of IAPS for 2018-19.

The Independent Association of Prep Schools (IAPS) is a schools association with over 670 of the world’s leading prep schools in membership.