17. Inclusion and Aspiration: Rob Shadbolt

In her 2025 CST Conference speech, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson called for an education system that moves 'from narrow to broad' - one that values the whole experience of schooling: academic achievement, cultural development, community engagement, and personal growth. This vision echoes a growing national conversation about how schools can cultivate great learners and great people by re-centering purpose, values, and breadth at the heart of the curriculum.

This discussion with Rob Shadbolt, Headteacher of Wood Green School, offers a grounded example of how that aspiration can look in practice (see the other videos in this collection: Challenge and Breadth and Balance and Cohesion). Over several years, Rob and his team have developed the Wood Green Baccalaureate - a curriculum framework that unites academic learning, personal development, and community contribution into a single, inclusive entitlement for every pupil.

Rather than bolting on enrichment for some, their approach embeds breadth as the entitlement of all. Pupils are recognised not only for exam outcomes, but also for their research, creativity, service, and wellbeing - captured through a personal transcript that celebrates the full scope of their achievement.

The conversation raises essential questions about how schools - primary and secondary - can design curricula that value more, not less; that grow aspiration alongside inclusion; and that define success in ways that truly prepare young people for life, not just qualifications.

Reflection questions:

For teachers

• How do I help pupils see the purpose and joy of learning - not just the outcome or grade?
• In what ways do my lessons show pupils that being curious, kind, and creative are as valued as being correct?
• How can I design tasks that connect classroom learning to the wider world, community, or personal identity of my pupils?
• Do I make space for pupils to reflect on what kind of learner - and person - they are becoming through our curriculum?
• How can I balance academic stretch with opportunities for self-expression, service, and collaboration?

Download the questions for subject leaders, pastoral leaders and senior leaders here.

You can find more recordings on Myatt & Co