United Kingdom

UK Segment Summary

Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate (QE), near York, showcases their “Thrive at QE” framework, whole-child approach, and future skills redesign.

Whole-Child Framework Future Skills Student Voice

Thrive at QE: Whole-Child Framework

QE structures its work around four collegiate aims: Academic, Enrichment, Welfare, and Well-being.

“To be the best that I can with the gifts that I have” — underpinning the idea that every student is supported to develop their own strengths and identity.

Future Skills: The redesign is explicitly informed by the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs reports (2020/2025), emphasizing critical thinking, collaboration, and emotional intelligence.

Academic Provision & Innovation

Choice & Careers

  • Personalised Learning: From Year 9 options to 30+ subjects at Post-16.
  • QE Futures: Dedicated careers team using Morrisby platform and networking with local employers.

Niche Subjects

  • Robotics: Integrating computing and engineering.
  • Esports: Offered as a BTEC; Minecraft team reached world finals (Silver medalists).
  • QE Motorsport: Students run a fully-fledged team, converting road cars to racing specs.

AI, Critical Thinking & Study Skills

AI & Ethics

QE is an early adopter with a formal AI policy focusing on ethical use and bias checking. Students build AI “agents” as scaffolds, moving from seeing AI as a replacement to critically evaluating its outputs.

QE Study Toolkit

A whole-school package for time management and revision (Pomodoro, active recall). Features a nightly “Power Hour” supported by subject ambassadors.

Enrichment, Leadership & Culture

Enrichment: A dense programme of trips (Iceland, New York, Madrid) framed as cultural exploration. Over 140+ co-curricular activities.

Leadership & Service

  • DofE & CCF: Duke of Edinburgh Award and Combined Cadet Force (RAF/Army).
  • Volunteering: Care homes, beach cleans, and charity fundraising.

Diversity & Inclusion

Highlights include Cultural Awareness Week and a student-run fashion show, symbolizing student agency and global identity.