As we approach the end of this academic year, we mark a truly special milestone: Dallington School is turning 10.
Ten years ago, Dallington School opened its doors with a clear and ambitious vision – to provide a broad, challenging curriculum with care, trust and support at its core. We believed then, as we do now, that learning should be a shared journey, and that schools should be places where young people are nurtured to grow not just academically, but as confident, creative, and independent thinkers.
Today, as Head Teacher and a proud member of the Dallington community for the past nine years, I have had the privilege of witnessing that vision come to life in extraordinary ways. From our very first cohort of students to the vibrant, diverse and dynamic school we are today, our community has continued to thrive and evolve – always with purpose and heart.
Living Our Vision – Through the Years
As we conclude the opening decade at Dallington School, it is the ideal moment to reflect on the types of experiences that assure us we are on the right path toward fulfilling our vision.
In our very first year, I arrived as the Educational Leader and Year 3 teacher. That inaugural Year 3 class held a unique place in our journey – the oldest students at the time, they were pioneers, setting the tone for all who followed. Much of that original class is now in Year 11, preparing to complete their IGCSE exams and transition into our new Key Stage 5 programme. I have witnessed their development over the years – and I can say with certainty: they have grown into fine individuals, shaped by the values and experiences of this school.
One of the cornerstones of our vision is a broad and challenging curriculum. I’m proud to say our programme of study has never remained static. Our dedicated and creative teaching staff continually refine and enrich their practice, ensuring that what we offer is not only rigorous but purposeful. This dynamism is most evident in our unique subject, Communication Thinking Skills (CTS) – the glue that binds our curriculum across all phases. A project-based subject, CTS pushes pupils to collaborate, lead, solve problems and think deeply. We’ve never repeated a single project – and highlights like Entrepreneurs, Happier, Healthier Me, Legacy Day, Mission to Mars, Farmer’s Market, and the recent Art Gallery Day have left lasting impressions on our learners.
We remain committed to a child-centred approach, reflected in our termly pupil progress meetings and varied assessment strategies. This ensures that every child is understood as a whole person – their strengths, challenges, interests, and growth areas carefully considered. This isn’t just a professional view; it’s also a personal one. As a father of Dallington pupils, I’ve witnessed first-hand the care and guidance provided at every phase – helping shape confident, curious learners.
True to our values, we actively engage our pupils in social responsibility and charitable action. From early on, we’ve encouraged awareness of the wider world and our role in it. Our support of causes like Cris Contra el Cáncer – through student-led fundraising and our annual family charity party – is a reflection of our belief in action and empathy. These events, often led by our secondary students, not only raise substantial funds but also foster leadership and service.
At the heart of our school are our Golden Principles, which run through the spine of Dallington. They are a constant reminder to our students of the importance of living out strong values in the choices they make. These principles are not theoretical – they are lived daily, guiding interactions, decision-making and the overall school culture.
Looking Ahead: Strong Roots, Bold Future
As we enter a new and exciting phase in our development – with the launch of Key Stage 5 and our ‘Double Bac’ programme – we do so with confidence. We are building on a solid foundation that honours our past while preparing us for the future.
To all who have been part of this journey – students, families, staff (past and present), and the wider Dallington community – thank you. Your belief, support and shared values have brought us to this moment.
Here’s to ten years of vision, care and excellence – and to the many more ahead.
With gratitude,
Peter Hay
Head Teacher
Dallington School, Madrid
