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James Ashcroft

I was thrilled to join the vibrant community at Atelier 21 as Executive Head and Designated Safeguarding Lead. The school’s ethos aligns perfectly with my educational philosophy. Born in England and raised in Amsterdam, where I attended an international school, my journey led me back to Cambridge to finish my schooling before heading to Norfolk where I trained as a teacher. I have broad experience working in boarding and prep schools in a variety of posts and now live in Kent with my family and (many) pets.

With a deep passion for education and pastoral care, I am committed to fostering a supportive learning environment for all pupils. I have championed the wellbeing of children in education for a while now; having chosen to write my Masters’ dissertation on strategies to support the mental wellbeing of Year 6 pupils during their preparation for the 11+ and ISEB examinations.

My interest in metacognition drives my dedication to enhancing teaching practices and supporting pupils’ holistic development. I have spent recent years training staff, so they are able to role model the development of metacognition to children. My interest in this area has led me to spend a great deal of time reading, completing courses, talking with specialists and I am thrilled to be continuing these discussions with Guy Claxton and Hayley Peacock. I am currently reading ‘The language of thinking’ by Ron Ritchhart.

Open communication and collaboration is central to my approach. I am committed to working closely with pupils, parents and staff to create a strong sense of community and to provide the best possible educational experience and outcomes for our pupils.

I look forward to introducing you to Sally, my trusty dog who has her own wellbeing qualification and is very much a part of the Atelier 21 family. She is an eight-year-old cockapoo and is happy to sit and read with children or fall asleep and snore under a chair in staff meetings – as she has done many a time!