The Power of Togetherness

Today, the power of togetherness is more essential than ever. It is crucial for our children to recognise the value of being present in the world and with each other, offline. Strength in community, united in values and ethos is something the independent sector prides itself on—the lifelong relationships and values instilled – the bond of togetherness.

The collaboration between parents and the school further establishes a strong sense of community, acting as what some would describe as a “superpower.” (Jill Berry)

At Kew Green Preparatory School, collaboration is one of the core values that underpin our ethos and aims. We emphasise collaboration among our pupils to foster strong and positive relationships with each other, and effective teamwork. This extends beyond pupil relationships, to the expert knowledge and care from staff for their pupils and the dynamic partnership between parents and the school.

Marc Randolph, the Co-Founder of Netflix, highlighted the importance of togetherness at the Enlightened Education IAPS conference. He emphasised the profound impact of being together on our development, noting that the human spirit thrives on interaction: ‘If the human spirit is to spark, it needs fuel and friction’. Randolph also stressed the value of strong relationships, stating that what truly matters in life is not career success or financial wealth or ‘status’, but the ability to form meaningful and enduring bonds with each other.

When parents and the school align with shared values and aims, championing the ethos of the school, it drives a united and purposeful school culture that further enhances the educational experience and drives a strong sense of unison and collaboration. This unity can withstand challenges and achieve success across many areas of school life.

In 2023/2024 school year, Kew Green Preparatory School exemplified this unity. The school community raised over £12,000 for its chosen charity, West London Action for Children, setting a record as the school enters its 20th birthday year. Additionally, the school further enhanced its offerings of educational talks for parents and introduced structured parent career talks, including the launch of ‘Tech Talks’ led by parents working in careers with technology and AI, enhancing pupils’ exposure in those fields of employment.

The parent-body also supported the school’s new ‘give back’ initiatives, driving momentum for the successful food banks and toy drives as well showing support for the regular litter picks and developing partnership with local Primary schools. The school year culminated in a whole-school ultra-marathon, with pupils, staff and parents running around Kew Green while wearing solar panels. These activities, coordinated by parents or through their support of the school’s organisation of them, further fostered and strengthen our sense of togetherness and community engagement at Kew Green Preparatory School.

The ‘superpower’ of the parent-body at Kew Green Preparatory School is certainly felt in all areas of school life, with the effective and positive collaboration between parents and the school continuing to enrich the educational environment and help pupils to build lasting, meaningful relationships, motivated to engage and have a positive impact on society and the wider world.