Margaret White

Biography

Margaret White's educational background was as a pupil in a state primary school and state girls’ grammar school (which became a mixed sixth-form college while she was there). She was a parent at, and governor of, a Church of England V.A. primary school, and subsequently had children at an independent Methodist senior school.

She has worked as a general subjects class teacher and form tutor, Extension Co-ordinator, Academic Mentor, Head of English,  Director of Studies and Deputy Head Academic in one of the largest independent junior schools  (for pupils aged 4 to 13) in the UK.

She has developed extensive material on curriculum and policy matters, produced numerous teaching resources for English and Maths and written three distinct courses for academic extension. As well as publishing various articles on aspects of teaching, she has worked as a curriculum consultant for Cambridge International Assessment, writing material for international use by 5 to 14 year olds.

Education

BA, Natural Sciences and Education, University of Cambridge

Areas of Research / Professional Expertise

Margaret White believes in education based on foundational values which in turn inform educational principles. These values and principles provide both the bedrock on which policies and practices are built and the plumb line against which ideas are judged.

Believing each pupil to be uniquely gifted and of incalculable worth, she is passionately committed to thinking through educational provision such that it encourages and enables the maximum development of each child in their areas of strength, while also supporting them to develop in areas where they feel less certain. She believes in excellence for all, the importance of breadth of attainment, encouraging depth of engagement and fostering a life-long love of learning.  

Children need to learn together as members of a community which should be supportive and compassionate, recognising the need for generosity of spirit as well as respect for all and personal integrity. This all requires a secure and rigorous framework of thought, planning, and preparation, informed by a clear and fitting vision which is supported by strong leadership.

She aims to build on the conviction that learning can and should be a thoroughly enjoyable, positive and worthwhile experience for all, seeking to inspire and encourage teachers and pupils to reach high and to contribute fully to their own success, to that of the school in all areas, and by extension to that of the local community, and wider society.

Personal Interests

Margaret White has a keen creative energy which at different times has been channelled into the playing and writing of music; children’s and youth work, music and leadership at church; creative presentation of ideas including through public speaking and writing; the restoration of dilapidated houses; cooking; photography; and gardening. She finds relaxation and refreshment in the beauty of the natural world, whether walking on the north Norfolk coast or exploring the mountains and wildlife of the Scottish Highlands. She enjoys reading, whether trying to maintain interests first developed through studies at university, delving into new subjects or reading novels or Christian books. Her greatest pleasure is to spend time with her family, both immediate and extended.  

Books