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Welcome and introductions with Matthew D'Arcy, Programme Director
09:45 - 10:25
> Main Stage
A2.1 - OPENING KEYNOTE: A World Of Change & Choice - Primary & Secondary Education 2025–2030: Fewer, Bigger, Better?
With Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas). [ BIOGRAPHY ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
With Maddie Lingard, Head of Marketing, UBIQ Education Ltd. [ BIOGRAPHY ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
With Matt Horne, Head Of Digital Media, Newcastle University. [ BIOGRAPHY ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
A3.1 - KEYNOTE: To Be Announced - Watch This Space!
To Be Announced - Watch This Space. [ BIOGRAPHY ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
With Jack Dougherty, Director of Marketing, Felsted School. [ BIOGRAPHY ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
A3.3 - KEYNOTE: Tracey Colbert-Smith and Rebecca Chaplin
With Tracey Colbert-Smith, Director of Marketing and Communications, Dean Close Foundation Schools and Rebecca Chaplin, Director of Admissions, Dean Close Foundation Schools. [ BIOGRAPHIES ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
With Jose Ignacio Barrera, Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Insight Lead (Market & Student Insight Team), The University of Manchester. [ BIOGRAPHY ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
With Priya Patel, Head of Marketing & Admissions, St Neot's Preparatory School. [ BIOGRAPHY ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
With Ben Russell, UK Partnerships Director, UBIQ Education Ltd. [ BIOGRAPHY ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
A4.4 - WORKSHOP/BREAKOUT: Amy Williams and Jack Dougherty
With Amy Williams, Marketing Manager, Felsted School and Jack Dougherty, Director of Marketing, Felsted School. [ BIOGRAPHIES ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
A4.5 - WORKSHOP/BREAKOUT: Gemma Woods and Emily Morgan
With Gemma Woods, Senior Marketing & CRM Consultant, HubGem and Emily Morgan, Marketing and CRM Consultant, HubGem. [ BIOGRAPHIES ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
With Matt Horne, Head Of Digital Media, Newcastle University. [ BIOGRAPHY ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
With Luke D'Arcy, Innovation & Growth Evangelist, Board Advisor for madSense, former President and EMEA Growth Officer, Momentum Worldwide. [ BIOGRAPHY ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
A6.1 - WORKSHOP/BREAKOUT: Tracey Colbert-Smith and Rebecca Chaplin
With Tracey Colbert-Smith, Director of Marketing and Communications, Dean Close Foundation Schools and Rebecca Chaplin, Director of Admissions, Dean Close Foundation Schools. [ BIOGRAPHIES ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
With Matt Horne, Head Of Digital Media, Newcastle University. [ BIOGRAPHY ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
A6.3 - WORKSHOP/BREAKOUT: Nick Wright and Maddie Lingard
With Nick Wright, Sales Executive, Interactive Schools and Maddie Lingard, Head of Marketing, UBIQ Education Ltd. [ BIOGRAPHIES ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
A6.4 - WORKSHOP/BREAKOUT: Philippa Watkins and Julian Baker
With Philippa Watkins, Director of Marketing and Admissions, Reigate Grammar School and Julian Baker, International Registrar, RGS Surrey Hills. [ BIOGRAPHIES ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
A6.5 - WORKSHOP/BREAKOUT: To Be Announced - Watch This Space!
To Be Announced - Watch This Space! [ BIOGRAPHIES ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
End Of Monday's Conference (Day 1) - Thank You For Coming!
17:00 - 18:30
> Exhibition Area
POST-CONFERENCE: Networking & Social Event
All those able to attend are welcome to stay for this complementary event at the end of Monday's Engage Enrol - Delegates, Speakers, Sponsors and Suppliers attending the Conference on Monday and/or Tuesday.
Engage Enrol Conference Programme
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Welcome and introductions with Matthew D'Arcy, Programme Director
09:45 - 10:25
> Main Stage
A2.1 - OPENING KEYNOTE: A World Of Change & Choice - Primary & Secondary Education 2025–2030: Fewer, Bigger, Better?
With Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas). [ BIOGRAPHY ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
With Maddie Lingard, Head of Marketing, UBIQ Education Ltd. [ BIOGRAPHY ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
With Matt Horne, Head Of Digital Media, Newcastle University. [ BIOGRAPHY ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
A3.1 - KEYNOTE: To Be Announced - Watch This Space!
To Be Announced - Watch This Space. [ BIOGRAPHY ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
With Jack Dougherty, Director of Marketing, Felsted School. [ BIOGRAPHY ]
KEYNOTE: Shaun Fenton OBE, Head of Reigate Grammar School (RGS) and Executive Head of the RGS Family of Schools (UK & Overseas)
Description:
Things are ever changing for schools but never more so than now and for the Independent sector especially, which is in flux.
Pupil numbers are falling, fees are under pressure from VAT, and demographic shifts mean intake years are contracting.
International boarding remains vital but more volatile, shaped by global politics, visa policy, and currency trends.
At the same time, consolidation is accelerating: large, selective schools are still full, while many small, non-selective schools face merger or closure.
Reflecting on a world of change and choice, in his Keynote talk Shaun Fenton will offer a rare headteacher’s perspective on what this means for marketing and admissions.
He will trace the Independent sector’s long arc of change – from boys’ boarding to co-ed day, from stand-alone schools to groups – while also exploring primary and secondary education provision more widely, and show how identity, heritage and re-branding can be balanced with cultural distinctiveness.
Drawing on the RGS journey from one school to a UK group of six with eight international partners, Shaun will explore how to understand shifting markets, how recruitment differs across school types, and why planned, programmatic, data-led approaches are now essential.
Delegates will be challenged to reflect on their own strategies: which intake years matter most, how pipelines (from local to international) can be de-risked, and what real distinctiveness looks like in an era of “flight to quality”.
A3.3 - KEYNOTE: Tracey Colbert-Smith and Rebecca Chaplin
With Tracey Colbert-Smith, Director of Marketing and Communications, Dean Close Foundation Schools and Rebecca Chaplin, Director of Admissions, Dean Close Foundation Schools. [ BIOGRAPHIES ]
