Bishopstrow College is known for its commitment to developing well-rounded individuals through ‘The Bishopstrow Way,’ an educational philosophy that focuses on nurturing academic excellence alongside personal growth.
With the appointment of Josephine Velthoven as the new Principal, the College is poised to embark on an exciting new chapter. “My goal is to build on the strong foundation of ‘The Bishopstrow Way’,” she shares. “I want to ensure that all students feel empowered and supported in their academic and personal journeys.”
Josephine brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective that aligns seamlessly with the core virtues of the College: Kind, Polite, Hard-working, Team Player, and Organised.
A Rich and Diverse Background
Josephine Velthoven grew up in the Netherlands, where a multicultural environment shaped her worldview and instilled in her a deep appreciation for diversity and collaboration. Raised in a family of educators, she was encouraged to explore her interests in various fields, fostering a lifelong love for learning.
“My background has greatly influenced my educational philosophy,” Josephine reflects. “Understanding different cultures and perspectives is essential for creating a supportive learning environment.”
“Living in the Netherlands allowed me to appreciate different cultures from a young age, it taught me the significance of kindness and understanding in fostering strong relationships.” She emphasises that “learning from one another and embracing diversity is key to preparing young people for the global world they will enter.”
After completing her studies in the Netherlands and the USA, Josephine pursued advanced educational leadership roles, gaining invaluable, diverse experience in various educational settings both in her home country and in the UK.
Embracing The Bishopstrow Way
Josephine immediately recognised the importance of ‘The Bishopstrow Way’ during her initial visits to the College. This philosophy emphasises the development of key virtues that shape students into compassionate, responsible individuals.
Kind: Kindness is the cornerstone of a nurturing community. “At Bishopstrow, we encourage our students to show kindness in all interactions. A culture of kindness fosters a sense of belonging and support,” Josephine explains.
Polite: Politeness is essential for respectful communication and building strong relationships. “Teaching students the importance of good manners and respect lays the groundwork for a harmonious learning environment,” she adds.
Hard-working: Josephine emphasises the value of diligence in achieving personal goals. “We want our students to understand that hard work is crucial to success, both academically and in life.”
Team Player: Collaboration is key in education and beyond. “Being a team player is vital for personal and collective growth. We encourage students to support one another and work together toward shared goals,” she states.
Organised: Effective time management and organisation are essential for success. “We provide students with tools to help them stay organised, balancing their academic and extracurricular commitments,” Josephine explains.
The EAL Journey
As a non-native speaker of English, Josephine has personally navigated the challenges of learning a new language, making her empathetic towards students who embark on a similar journey. “I understand the hurdles that come with being an English as an Additional Language (EAL) learner,” she shares. “This experience allows me to support our EAL students effectively, ensuring they feel confident and capable in their language skills.”
Josephine is dedicated to creating a welcoming environment for EAL students, recognising that language proficiency is crucial for their academic success and social integration. “We are committed to providing resources and support that empower these students to thrive,” she affirms.
The Bishopstrow Way: Integrating the BSA’s Boarding Life Skills Award into Our Vision
Bishopstrow College is dedicated to providing a holistic education that not only focuses on academic excellence but also prioritises personal growth and life skills development. A significant addition to this vision is the integration of the BSA’s Boarding Life Skills Award, which aligns seamlessly with ‘The Bishopstrow Way’ and the College’s core virtues: Kind, Polite, Hard-working, Team Player, and Organised.
In today’s fast-paced world, equipping students with essential life skills is crucial. The Boarding Life Skills Award emphasises the development of practical abilities that prepare students for independence, responsibility, and success in various aspects of life. By incorporating this internationally recognised Award into the co-curriculum, Bishopstrow College ensures that students are not only prepared for academic challenges but also for the realities of adulthood.
Enhancing The Bishopstrow Way
Kindness and Empathy
The Boarding Life Skills Award encourages students to engage in community service and teamwork. This aligns perfectly with the virtue of Kindness, fostering a culture of compassion and support among peers. Students learn the value of giving back and understanding others’ perspectives, creating a nurturing environment that embodies ‘The Bishopstrow Way’.
Politeness and Respectful Communication
Through various activities in the Life Skills Award programme, students develop communication skills and learn the importance of politeness. Engaging in discussions, group projects, and presentations reinforces the necessity of respectful interactions, essential for building strong relationships in and outside the classroom.
Hard Work and Commitment
The Award requires students to set personal goals, participate in workshops, and complete practical tasks that challenge them. This commitment to personal development fosters a strong work ethic, encouraging students to put in the effort needed to achieve their aspirations, aligning with the core virtue of Hard-working.
Team Player Mindset
Collaboration is a key component of the BSA’s Boarding Life Skills Award. Students work together on projects, share responsibilities, and learn to value each team member’s contributions. This experience cultivates a Team Player mentality, essential for success in academic settings and future workplaces.
Organisational Skills
The Award promotes effective time management and planning. Students learn to balance their academic responsibilities with co-curricular activities, fostering strong organisational skills that are vital for personal and academic success.
A Vision for the Future
Integrating the BSA’s Boarding Life Skills Award into Bishopstrow College’s co-curriculum enhances our commitment to holistic education. Principal Josephine Velthoven is dedicated to ensuring that every student leaves the college not only with a higher level of English but also with practical skills that prepare them for the next steps in life.
“By embedding the Boarding Life Skills Award into our educational framework, we are providing students with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of adulthood,” Josephine states. “This initiative reflects our dedication to nurturing well-rounded individuals who are ready to face the world with confidence.”
Conclusion
Josephine Velthoven’s leadership marks an exciting new chapter for Bishopstrow College, infused with passion, empathy, and a commitment to holistic education.
The incorporation of the BSA’s Boarding Life Skills Award into Bishopstrow College’s vision represents a significant step forward in fulfilling the College’s mission. By aligning this programme with ‘The Bishopstrow Way’ and its core virtues, the College ensures that students develop the essential life skills needed for their future.
For families seeking an educational experience that prioritises English language learning, personal growth, and diversity, Bishopstrow College offers a nurturing environment where every student can thrive. As Josephine beautifully puts it, “education is about becoming the best version of yourself, embracing your journey, and supporting others along the way.”
Join us at Bishopstrow College, where ‘The Bishopstrow Way’ continues to inspire and transform lives, and where education meets life skills, guided by the visionary leadership of Principal, Josephine Velthoven!
