Podcasts | Sir William Perkins's School (SWPS) Skip to content Book a visit SWPS Spotlight British Science Week students quiz the teachers To mark British Science Week, Year 12 students Liuba, Ellie and Genevieve turn the tables on their teachers – Dr Nasser, Mr Lawson, Ms Struebing and Miss Bahd – in a lively reverse quiz. Their thoughtful questions open fascinating discussions on consciousness, toxicity, the possibility of alien life and future STEM pathways. A brilliant showcase of student curiosity and scientific thinking. Key topics: The elusive nature of consciousness in animals, robots, and humans What makes substances poisonous and how doses affect toxicity Possibility of life elsewhere in the universe and recognising alien life Pathways into STEM careers and the role of GCSEs, A Levels, and work experience Redesigning the science curriculum to focus on skills and curiosity-driven learning Apple Podcast Spotify Exploring the Duke of Edinburgh Award We’re shining a spotlight on the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at Sir William Perkins’s School. This incredible programme gives students opportunities beyond the classroom, builds confidence, and teaches skills for life that truly set them apart. We’ll be hearing from students who are taking part, and from Trevor Kirby, the DofE Award Scheme Manager at SWPS, about the impact of the award and how the school has achieved one of the highest participation and completion rates in the region. Let’s find out more, come with me now. Apple Podcast Spotify Elite Sports Performance In this episode of SWPS Spotlight, we celebrate two exceptional Year 12 student-athletes: Taylor, an England Talent Pathway hockey goalkeeper currently competing at National League Level, and Sophie, proudly selected to represent Ireland in the U17 Europe Netball Championships. Joined by our Director of Sport, Mr Brown, they share what it truly takes to balance academic excellence with sporting ambition, how the school has supported them on their sporting journey, and why mindset is the key to driving success. Words of Wisdom from Sophie: “When you’re in the place where you just don’t think you’re good enough, or you know you’re further behind than others, just keep going because you can and will improve. Keep pushing forward and don’t forget to enjoy it too.” Taylor’s Mental Game: “Once you are past the skills and ability, it’s all a mental game.” An inspiring listen for all members of our community, packed with advice, resilience, and motivation from two elite athletes. Apple Podcast Spotify A Journey Through SWPS: From Year 7 to University with sisters Sierra & Ashbury In this engaging conversation, Sierra and Ashbury, share their academic journeys, personal growth, and experiences at SWPS. They discuss their impressive A-level results, memorable moments from school, and the leadership opportunities that shaped their confidence. As they transition to university life, they reflect on their aspirations in physics and the importance of balancing academics with social life. Apple Podcast Spotify A Bright Future, together: SWPS prepares to go Co-Ed Join us in this insightful episode as we explore SWPS’s transformative journey to a co-educational school. Steven Berryman and Heather O’Connor discuss the motivations, challenges and exciting opportunities that come with this change. Discover how the school is preparing its staff and students for a new era of inclusive education. Key Highlights: The rationale behind SWPS’s decision to become co-educational. Insights into the phased approach and its impact on current students. How the school is maintaining its strong academic and pastoral care reputation. The role of staff training in preparing for a co-ed environment. Exciting new opportunities in arts and sports with the inclusion of boys. Apple Podcast Spotify SWPS alumni – Rachel Fentem; a journey in Global Governance In this episode, Dr Rachel Fentem shares her journey from being a student at Sir William Perkins’s School to becoming a diplomat and soon-to-be ambassador. She reflects on her various roles within the UK government, the impact of her education in classics on her professional development, and the vital role of cultural understanding in diplomacy. Rachel underscores the importance of pursuing one’s passion and offers thoughtful advice to students about discovering purpose in unexpected places. Apple Podcast Spotify The Peter Jones Foundation This conversation explores the Peter Jones Foundation’s Tycoon Challenge, an initiative aimed at fostering entrepreneurial skills among students. The discussion includes insights from teachers and students about the challenge, their business ideas, the lessons learned, and the importance of sustainability. The conversation also touches on the broader educational opportunities for developing entrepreneurial thinking and the debate on whether entrepreneurial skills can be taught or are innate. Apple Podcast Spotify Ambition, Oracy, Leadership This conversation explores the importance of oracy in education, with a particular focus on how it supports students’ communication skills, self-confidence, and overall academic achievement. The discussion features insights from both educators and students, highlighting the practical use of oracy in school settings, the value of extracurricular involvement, and the crucial role parents play in helping children build these abilities. Apple Podcast Spotify The Future of Education In this podcast episode, Head of SWPS Ms Debbie Picton and Senior Deputy Head Dr Steven Berryman discuss the future of education in the independent sector. They explore current innovations such as new approaches to assessment, the importance of preparing students for a rapidly changing world, and how SWPS is embedding world readiness into its vision. The conversation also covers the evolving role of technology in schools and how interdisciplinary thinking is becoming essential for student success. Listen on Apple or Spotify, via the links below. Apple Podcast Spotify Rebecca Rowe Bex shares her inspiring journey from being a passionate athlete to becoming a firefighter. She discusses her early influences in sport, her experiences competing at elite levels, and the challenges she faced due to injuries. Bex highlights the importance of community, mentorship, and resilience, offering valuable life lessons for both teenagers and adults considering career changes. Listen on Apple or Spotify, via the links below. Apple Podcast Spotify The MUN Experience We dive into the world of diplomacy, debate, and global thinking—through the eyes of SWPS Year 10 delegates, along with Miss Cobbin who leads the MUN club.  We’ll explore what inspired them to get involved, how they prepare to represent a country, and how MUN has shaped their understanding of international issues.  This episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and the power of student voices in shaping tomorrow’s world via MUN. Listen on Apple or Spotify, via the links below. Apple Podcast Spotify VE Day Sir William Perkins’s School commemorated the 80th anniversary of VE Day which marked eight decades since the end of World War II in Europe. Our students explored the impact of war and the sacrifices made for democracy and freedom. Tune in to the SWPS Spotlight VE Day podcast where Year 9 pupils Lizzie, Issy, and Freya discuss their research, and Year 12 Historian Bessie talks about Churchill’s leadership. Listen on Apple or Spotify, via the links below. Apple Podcast Spotify Revision Skills In this podcast episode, we discuss effective revision strategies for students. Covering the importance of retrieval practice, various techniques such as mind maps, brain dumps, flashcards, and low stakes quizzing, as well as the Pomodoro technique for efficient studying. The experts emphasise the role of parents in supporting their children’s revision and the significance of maintaining a balanced approach to studying. Listen on Apple or Spotify, via the links below. Apple Podcast Spotify SWPS Sustainability We explore the vital role of sustainability and climate change education within schools. Featuring insights from educators and students, the conversation highlights the importance of integrating sustainability into the curriculum, empowering students as agents of change, and fostering a culture of environmental awareness. The discussion also covers various initiatives undertaken by the Eco-Committee and the community. Listen on Apple or Spotify, via the links below. Apple Podcast Spotify SWPS Drama In this podcast episode, we meet Emily White, Head of Drama at SWPS, and two Year 12 drama students, Erin and Nina. They discuss the structure and offerings of the drama program at SWPS, the transition from Lower School to A-Level Drama, and the personal experiences of the students. The conversation highlights the importance of drama in building confidence, social skills, and teamwork, as well as the various career paths available to drama students. Listen on Apple or Spotify, via the links below. Apple Podcast Spotify The Rowing Programme at Sir William Perkins's School This conversation explores the rowing programme at Sir William Perkins’s School (SWPS), highlighting the impressive facilities, the achievements of student athletes Annabel and Emily, and the vital role of coaching in their success. The discussion also delves into the balance between academics and athletics, the importance of discipline over motivation, future opportunities available through rowing, including scholarships and how to get involved in the rowing program. Listen on Apple or Spotify, via the links below. Apple Podcast Spotify 300th Anniversary In this episode the school celebrates the 300th anniversary of Sir William Perkins’s School, focusing on Project 300, which emphasises community engagement, volunteering, and the importance of alumni connections. Tricia Tyler and Dr Steven Berryman discuss the school’s initiatives to give back to the community, the significance of maintaining relationships with alumni, and the exciting events planned for the anniversary year, including a concert and an exhibition at Chertsey Museum. Listen on Apple or Spotify, via the links below. Apple Podcast Spotify Alumna Anne Kingston and student Laura compare 300 years at SWPS In this episode, Laura, a current Year 13 student, and Anne, an alumna from the 1960s, discuss their experiences at the school, the evolution of education, the importance of pastoral care, and the extracurricular activities that shaped their school lives. The conversation highlights the contrasts between school life in the 1960s and today, as well as the aspirations of students across generations. Listen on Apple or Spotify, via the links below. Apple Podcast Spotify Continue your journey Visit Us Find out more Admissions Find out more Sixth Form Find out more What’s on