#bablake

In a world where many people claim to have cracked the formula for high performance, there remains lively debate about how excellence is achieved. One theory suggests that mastery comes from intense specialisation and repetition, while others argue that success is built through breadth, exploration and varied experience.

The idea that excellence is best achieved through focused repetition was popularised by author Malcolm Gladwell. Often referred to as the 10,000-hour rule, it suggests that elite performance comes from deliberate practice over a prolonged period. A frequently cited example is Tiger Woods, who picked up a golf club before he could walk and, by the age of twelve, had accumulated around 10,000 hours of practice. Stories like this can make early specialisation feel like the surest path to success. There is no doubt that practice matters; commitment, discipline and effort are essential ingredients of excellence. However, is this the whole story?

A compelling counterargument is offered by author David Epstein through the concept of range. Rather than specialising early, Epstein suggests that many high performers benefit from trying a wide range of activities before deciding where to focus. One of his best-known examples is Roger Federer. Unlike many of his peers, Federer did not specialise in tennis from a very young age. His parents encouraged him to play a variety of sports, including football, basketball and badminton, and to experiment with different ways of learning. This breadth of experience helped him develop the athleticism, creativity and problem-solving skills that later supported success at the very highest level.

In relatively simple environments, such as chess or golf, repetition and focused practice can be highly effective. The same principle applies to revision for examinations - purposeful practice is usually the best preparation, and this is advice pupils will hear often, particularly as exam season approaches.

However, many aspects of life, for example, careers, relationships, leadership and problem-solving, are far more complex and unpredictable. In these situations, having a broad base of experience is hugely valuable. Skills developed in one area can strengthen another: musical training can support mathematical thinking, while teamwork in sport can build leadership and collaboration in the classroom. Broad roots often provide greater resilience than narrow ones.

At Bablake, our Spirit of Opportunity reflects a belief that every pupil should be able to explore, experiment and grow. Providing a wide range of academic, cultural and co-curricular opportunities is not about avoiding excellence; it is about laying the strongest possible foundations for it. By encouraging pupils to try different subjects, sports and pursuits, we help them develop curiosity, adaptability and independence: qualities that support academic success and prepare them for a complex and ever-changing world. This is why many Year 9 pupils found themselves with me (and others) in Northamptonshire last weekend, completing their Bronze DofE practice expedition.

I am sure that many of you attended the celebrations for Coventry City’s promotion to the Premier League. As Headmaster of a school rooted in this city for almost 700 years, I am acutely aware that Bablake does not exist in isolation. We are shaped by Coventry, by its history, its setbacks, its quiet determination, just as we hope, in some small way, to shape its future through the young people we educate.

Coventry’s story is not an easy one. Rebuilt after the devastation of the Blitz, which was so complete that it gave the world a new word for destruction, the city later prospered through manufacturing, only to watch much of that industry disappear in the latter part of the twentieth century. For years, Coventry has lived with the sense of being overlooked, underestimated, or unfairly caricatured.

And yet, resilience runs deep. You see it in the way people talk about the city, often negatively but also with affection and fierce loyalty. You see it in those who move away for opportunity but come home for football, for family, for a sense of belonging. You see it in the city centre itself: concrete-heavy, unapologetically post-war, but alive with children playing in fountains and conversations struck up between strangers. This is not a city that gives up easily. As local band The Enemy sings in their anthem ‘We'll Live and Die in These Towns’ - chanted before every Coventry City match - “nothing ever happens on its own.”

At Bablake, we educate young people who carry Coventry with them, whether they stay here for life or take their talents elsewhere. Our pupils inherit the history that the city lives with - a place shaped by hardship, but rich in character, potential and pride. I have written previously about our shared mission to support peace and reconciliation, which reflects not just what has happened but also an optimism for the future.

The recent resurgence of Coventry City mirrors Coventry’s wider story: setbacks, instability, long years of frustration, followed by recovery built on patience, belief and hard work. A lesson that we want our pupils to understand.

Success is rarely neat or immediate. Progress is often forged through failure. Pride comes from perseverance, not perfection. There is also a sense that Coventry may be entering a new chapter with investment in transport, housing and regeneration. The challenge is to sustain the momentum regardless of fortunes on a football pitch.

At Bablake, our task is to prepare young people not just to succeed academically, but also to understand where they come from and to value it. We want them to leave school with ambition, but also with humility, resilience and a sense of civic responsibility.

At a previous school, I remember a pupil, Daniel, who decided to take on the message from the film Yes Man (starring Jim Carrey). He decided that he would say ‘yes’ to every opportunity that came his way. That decision took him beyond what was familiar and placed him outside his comfort zone. Throughout that year, saying ‘yes’ took him to Peru, saw him performing on the stage and placed him in the national finals of a debating competition. All of these were evidently experiences that will stay with him for the rest of his life.

While perhaps saying yes to every opportunity might seem extreme, it is a good starting point! I frequently encourage all our young people at Bablake to try something new and to remain open to the possibilities that emerge when we take a risk and allow ourselves to feel a little uncertain.

Looking back over this term at Bablake, many of our pupils have done exactly that. Across the School, pupils have stretched themselves academically: asking deeper questions in lessons, engaging enthusiastically in extension activities, joining and leading societies and taking real ownership of their learning. I have seen that spark - the desire not just to do well, but to understand and to think independently. I am writing this in advance of Thursday’s Symposium, when I expect to be impressed by the quality and range of projects and the passion of our pupils as they talk about their work.

This ambition has certainly not been confined to the classroom. The term has been filled with moments that showcase determination, commitment and aspiration across the Bablake community. Whether representing the school in academic competitions, excelling on the sports field, shining in our musical performances, contributing to charitable initiatives, supporting their peers, or achieving personal milestones beyond school, our pupils have continued to demonstrate courage, kindness, hard work and drive.

From the energy of Grease and the talent on display in our choirs and concert performances, to successes in national competitions, our pupils have shown what happens when young people dare to say ‘yes’ to opportunity.

Coventry is known across the world as the City of Peace and Reconciliation, due to its response to the devastation of World War II. On the night of 14th November 1940, the city endured devastating bombing raids that destroyed much of its heart, including the medieval St Michael’s Cathedral. Bablake was also hit, and three families were killed.

In the aftermath, rather than seeking vengeance, Coventry’s leaders chose forgiveness. Provost Richard Howard’s message of “Father Forgive” became a cornerstone of a new vision: to heal wounds, build bridges and work for peace. This commitment lives on through Coventry Cathedral’s global ministry and the Community of the Cross of Nails, inspiring generations to turn conflict into friendship.

At Bablake, as a Cross of Nails school, these values are not just historical, they are part of our mission. Last month, our pupils composed and performed an original piece titled ‘Peace and Reconciliation’, blending the rich traditions of Gamelan music with Coventry’s enduring message of hope. This creative project, showcased at Coventry Cathedral, reminded us that reconciliation is not passive; it is active, requiring imagination, empathy and collaboration.

This Sunday, that same spirit will shine on national television, as Songs of Praise broadcasts from Coventry, featuring pupils from Bablake https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002nc7g. The programme celebrates hymns and stories that uplift and unite, echoing the city’s mission to “learn to live with difference and celebrate diversity.” For our pupils, participating in this broadcast is a chance to share Coventry’s story with millions, to show that peace begins in local communities and in classrooms.

The Cathedral’s Litany of Reconciliation, prayed daily, reminds us of the human failings that lead to conflict: “The hatred which divides nation from nation, race from race, class from class… Father forgive.” These words are not about guilt but about hope and are a call to acknowledge our shared responsibility to work together for healing. They challenge us to live differently, to choose forgiveness over bitterness and to build bridges.

Wednesday’s visit by the Band of the Grenadier Guards was a truly memorable occasion and a wonderful example of the enriching experiences we strive to offer at Bablake. The collaboration between the Guards’ band and our pupils resulted in an outstanding musical performance, showcasing both talent and teamwork. Watching the Guards march across the front field, with most of the school gathered to witness the spectacle, was a powerful and inspiring moment and most certainly one that will stay with us for a long time.

At Bablake, music is more than just a subject – it is a source of joy, connection and growth. Whether it is a child picking up an instrument for the first time or a seasoned performer taking to the stage, music has a remarkable ability to bring people together and lift spirits. Research consistently shows that music helps us feel happier, more relaxed and less anxious. It stimulates every part of the brain, making it a powerful tool for learning and wellbeing.

The benefits of music are not limited to just those who consider themselves to be “musical.” You do not need to be a trained musician to enjoy what music offers. Singing or playing in a group can boost our sense of belonging and emotional wellbeing. I personally look forward to my weekly 20 minutes with the brass ensemble, even if most of the pupils outplay me (they do practise more!). It is a chance to step away from the day’s responsibilities and enjoy something completely different.

We are proud that music continues to thrive across all areas of the school, from our youngest learners in Pre-Prep to our Sixth Form students. Hundreds of instrumental lessons, ensemble rehearsals and performance opportunities take place each term. Some of you may have heard our talented music scholars perform at St John’s Church last week. If you missed it, do not worry, as there will be plenty more chances to enjoy their music throughout the year.

We truly believe in the value of music, not just for mental health, but also as a powerful learning tool. Studies show that children who learn to play an instrument often see improvements in their academic performance. Why? Because learning music helps them to develop a positive mindset and resilience. It takes effort and persistence to master an instrument, but the rewards are clear: progress, confidence and a sense of achievement.

Last Saturday, it was great to see Former Pupils Peter Cusack and Karé Adenegan gaining Silver Medals at the Paralympics. They have both done incredibly well and we are very proud of them. I was able to pass on a message to Karé from us all at Bablake when she was interviewed on BBC CWR on Thursday morning (the programme is available on iPlayer if you wish to listen). The Bablake baton now gets passed to Dan Mousley, who is in the England Cricket squad due to play Australia over the next few days.

Closer to home, last Saturday we held our annual Shell Olympics. Despite the weather, everyone seemed to have a good time. As well as providing an opportunity for our new joiners to compete for their House, it was a chance for parents to meet one another and discuss the first few days, with refreshments provided by the Parents’’ Association.

I am very grateful for the support of the Parents’ Association, which plays a key part in our community. They provide opportunities for parents to meet, as well as raising money for areas that are not covered by our core funding. Recently they have provided two new outdoor table tennis tables and a VR headset to be used in co-curricular activities within the Computer Science Department.

On Tuesday, the PA had its first meeting of the year and we looked at the events that will be held this term, including the annual Christmas Fayre. I was heartened to see many new parents at the meeting and I very much hope that they will take the opportunity to become involved. Members of the committee give a lot of time to support us and are always looking for more volunteers. There are lots of ways in which you can support their work and I would encourage you to:

Attend their events. The Christmas Fayre will be held on Saturday 7th December and is a wonderful way to start the festive season.

Download the Easyfundraising app and link to Bablake. This gives a small donation each time you use many online retailers, including Amazon. Although only a small sum, they all add up and can raise hundreds each year with minimal effort.

Join the 200 Club. For a small annual donation (currently £10), you get the chance of winning each month.

Add your name to their volunteering list. This does not have to be a significant commitment – for example, some parents are on the list to help only with the Christmas Fayre or with OBNO sales.

Continue to donate items of uniform for the OBNO events.

We all benefit from the work of the PA and if you felt able to offer any help at all, no matter how small, it would be much appreciated. More details about how to get involved are in the main body of the bulletin.

This is a highly edited version of my introduction to Wednesday’s Prize Giving ceremony.

In 1962, the President of the United States, John F. Kennedy, gave a speech to encourage support for the moon landings. He said, “But why, some say, the Moon? Why choose this as our goal? And they may well ask, why climb the highest mountain? Why, 35 years ago, fly the Atlantic? We choose to go to the Moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard; because that goal will serve to organise and measure the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one we intend to win.”

We love to find short cuts, the easy path or simple solutions. We are hearing much from politicians at the moment and they are no exception to this rule. Independent schools have been part of the battleground in this election, but much of what I have heard and read about the sector does not reflect the Bablake that I know and love. Personally, I would like a clear vision for education: something to get excited about, but also something that reflects that the situation is complicated and nuanced.

Here at Bablake, we are clear about what we want to do. We aim to develop character, intellect, and well-being within a happy, scholarly, and caring community and to educate and inspire, so that pupils lead full and responsible lives and shape a better world.

Learning is difficult – it can make your head hurt and naturally we often look for short cuts. AI is a good example of both the opportunities and the dangers. There are so many ways in which it will support excellent teaching and learning and, as you would expect, we will evaluate opportunities and embrace the areas that help. For example, we are launching a new online system in September that has an element of AI including how it gives pupil feedback. This can help us learn and makes us more efficient; however, it doesn’t stop learning being difficult. When we stop thinking, we stop learning. Just because we can look things up on Google doesn’t mean there is no place for knowledge. Without it, I’m afraid, you’re just noise. We need leaders, leaders who can both communicate and have something important to say, who can collaborate with others, who are adaptable and can solve problems. So please, don’t stop being interested. To be interesting, you need to be interested. Interested in the world around you and interested in other people.

I think that some of the recent discourse in politics and the media has been unhelpful, such as the article in the last weekend’s Times, with the headline “No wonder Britain is so divided - we’re too diverse.” To me this doesn’t reflect the good that is happening in society, especially in education. I sometimes wonder if I live in a different world to everyone else because what I see in Bablake and Coventry is very different.

I am very proud of the diversity within our school community. Our pupils come from a wide variety of backgrounds and yet share so much, including our belief in the importance of education and in how we behave towards each other. Despite occasionally getting things wrong, the care that pupils show to one another is exceptional. This does not, however, mean that we are complacent and we know that there is always more that we can do. Our INC Society has helped to make us reflect upon some of our practices and I am grateful for its input into school life.

On Monday, Revd Su McClellan, who is Deacon of Coventry Cathedral and works for Embrace the Middle East, led a powerful assembly. Linking to our responsibilities to promote peace and reconciliation, she spoke about the current war in Israel and Gaza. The emphasis was on perception and true understanding of a complex situation and how to apply those lessons in our everyday life.

Then on Tuesday, we celebrated Iftar at school with some of our Bablake families and I genuinely think that this one of the highlights of my year. Iftar is one of the religious observances of Ramadan, and is often done as a community, when observers gather to break their fast together. A meal is taken just after prayer, which is around sunset. It is an honour to take part in this ceremony and sharing food together is always a joy. There is also evidence that when we eat together, it contributes to improved mood, perhaps something in our busy lives that we probably don’t do enough. At the Iftar, we were visited by another member of the Cathedral, Revd Canon Mary Gregory, who spoke briefly about fasting and faith and how this is shared in Christianity. There is far more that we have in common than that which divides us.

These are just two examples of things that happened at Bablake this week which illustrate some of the ways we celebrate and value our community. As Sunder Katwala, Director of British Future, wrote recently, “Integration is often invisible when it works, while failures of integration stick out like a sore thumb. We naturally take the everyday experience of living together in schools, workplaces and neighbourhoods for granted.” I am so proud of our community because we are able to take so much for granted.

I hope that you have a wonderful weekend.

Andrew Wright, Headmaster