In this blog post, Mr Matt Godfrey (Deputy Head) introduces some of the guest speakers who will be speaking at our 2026 Academic Conference on the topic of Leadership in Schools. 

James Nichols is the Founder and Director of Political Education for Students which engages, enthuses and educates young people in politics, government, citizenship and democracy so that they can become tomorrow’s voting citizens, activists, changemakers and leaders. 

In a rapidly shifting national and global landscape, politics is far more than an option for A Level study; it is the tool to develop visionary and active citizens and leaders. With the franchise in UK elections extended to 16- and 17-year-olds, it has never been more crucial for us to engage all young people about politics throughout the academic and pastoral curriculum.  

James will offer a roadmap for school leaders to build a positive whole-school culture where students aren’t just observers, but active participants in democracy. 

Raymond Degiorgi (Assistant Headteacher, London Academy of Excellence) will present a session with reflections from a group of Year 12 students at the London Academy of Excellence who took part in a year-long leadership programme in partnership with Eton College.

Structured around collaborative projects, workshops, and sustained cross-school interaction, the programme placed character explicitly at its centre, treating it not as a set of competencies to be acquired but as the foundation of genuine human flourishing.

Students will share what the experience gave them, how working alongside peers from a different school shifted their sense of their own potential, and how they have grown as people with a clearer sense of who they are and what they value.

Participants will leave with a clear picture of the programme’s framework and practical thinking about what meaningful cross-school partnership can offer young people on both sides.

Whether you are a school leader, classroom teacher, governor, or simply someone passionate about the future of education, this is an event not to be missed. Come and join us as we reflect on what should be preserved, what must evolve, and how we can work together to shape the schools of tomorrow.

We look forward to welcoming you on 17 June.

Don’t miss out: book your place now!

Mr Matt Godfrey
godfreym@downehouse.net

The Academic Conference is sponsored by Caterprompt and Rayburn Tours.

Along with:

• Keystone Tutors/Elective
• MSP LAB
• Boxphish
• Simply Learning Tuition
• Lloyds
• Furlong
• Allmanhall
• RS Academic
• Vectare
• Barnes Coaches
• Fisher of Newbury
• Crowne Coffee
• Savona
• Warrens
• Browne Books