Heads, leaders and teachers from across our network on the difference the PSB makes — in the classroom, at our conferences and through our support.
Our children came more world-ready and much more invested in their own path, rather than expecting someone to carve it out for them. There are lots of similar frameworks out there, but the really big difference with the PSB is that schools are able to do it the way they want, in a way that fits them. I have never experienced the level of collegiality with any other programme. As a teacher and a professional, you can shape the way you teach and deliver the skills however you want. It is really flexible and it really does make a difference. Senior schools notice our children — and the more you do it, the better it gets.
As a new member of the PSB, one of the greatest benefits has been the ability to recognise and accredit all subjects under the assessment umbrella. A wider range of assessments throughout the year — examinations, coursework, teacher assessment and effort grades — has been a very positive move away from traditional one-off terminal assessments. Staff have been free to indulge their subject passions whilst inspiring the children with amazing project work. Senior schools have been pleased to accept PSB candidates and have commented on the quality of the provision.
The inclusive nature of the PSB enables us to deliver a comprehensive educational experience for our Senior Prep pupils here at St Ed’s. It also helps better guide our pupils towards making the right choices for their I/GCSE options through the well-rounded programme we are now able to offer.
I am thankful that the PSB has provided a framework that helps us move on from regurgitation of knowledge to thinking skills and wisdom. We teach our students how to use thinking skills so they can have the wisdom to deal with the complex problems of the present and future. It provides a committed approach to learning where pupils use higher-order cognitive skills to master academic content, work collaboratively and think critically.
Through their framework, our pupils benefit from a progressive emphasis on independent learning, critical thinking, digital literacy, leadership and teamwork — skills that are vital for success in modern education and beyond. The Trust offers a robust assessment model that captures a more holistic record of pupil progress and achievement. The Learning Skills Trust operates with professionalism, clarity of purpose and a genuine passion for their educational philosophy, and their capacity to connect schools and share best practice has created meaningful professional learning communities that benefit staff and pupils alike.
I thought the speakers were superb — it was short, punchy and powerful. A perfect way to spend a half-day away from school!
Thank you both for organising such a fantastic conference. It felt like a really worthwhile investment of time, with some outstanding speakers and plenty to take away and reflect on.
PSB is such a wonderful process and has made a significant difference to our children. We have seen first-hand the transformation in their confidence and self-belief. Marian has been an incredibly supportive consultant throughout — the time she has invested in us, alongside her guidance and advice, has been invaluable. We would not hesitate to recommend PSB to any school considering becoming involved.
The work you have all done in developing PSB is hugely appreciated by us all. It is exciting to see how a clear PSB vision, combined with the energy and commitment of our staff, has enabled this partnership to flourish so positively and to have such a valuable impact on our pupils’ school experience.
We'd love to talk through how the PSB or SDF could work in your school.