Make science lessons longer and increase the length of break-time.
That was the advice of three ‘new’ head teachers at Monmouth Schools Pre-Prep and Nursery, Monmouth School Boys’ Prep and Monmouth School Girls’ Prep on Wednesday 16th May.
Three pupils – Miles, Alife and Isabella – became heads at their respective school for one day and held their own assemblies, led meetings, took part in a press conference, and gave guided tours.
Five-year-old Miles took charge of Monmouth Schools Pre-Prep and Nursery under the guidance of Mrs Jennie Phillips.
“Giving a tour of the school was probably the best thing that I’ve done,” said Miles.
“I also enjoyed the tour of the other two schools and I particularly liked the science room at Monmouth School Boys’ Prep because they had made a clock out of wood.
“I would definitely like to do more Forest School because we get to put marsh mallows on the fire, and it’s really great fun.”
Nine-year-old Alfie took the lead at Monmouth School Boys’ Prep under the tutelage of Mr Neil Shaw.
He declared: “I would make break-times longer and have longer science lessons.”
Ten-year-old Isabella enjoyed her day in charge at Monmouth School Girls’ Prep under the supervision of Mrs Hilary Phillips.
“The headteacher’s role felt very responsible and there were a lot of duties I needed to take on,” said Isabella.
“I was really excited about the opportunity. If I became the school’s permanent head, I would extend the length of the science lessons and maybe the Physical Education lessons.”
The parents of the three mini heads from Haberdashers’ Monmouth Schools won the special opportunity for their children in a charity auction at a ball thrown by the parents’ associations.
Mrs Jennie Phillips explained: “The parents’ associations for the three schools involved organised a fantastic Burns Night Ball.
“It was a brilliant evening and they auctioned off the Head for the Day opportunity.
“It raised more than £1,200 with money going to some fantastic charities, like Noah’s Ark Charity, and some money being put back into the schools.”
She added: “The three mini-heads were brilliant. We did staff meetings, assemblies and tours of the schools. They enjoyed it and I am certain it is something the three children will remember always.”