Cover Sir Anthony Seldon, head of Epsom College
Sir Anthony Seldon, head of Epsom College
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Renowned British educator and head of Epsom College, Sir Anthony Seldon, on what truly lies in the heart of holistic education and why it is important to go beyond grades
Ask any parent you know about what is most important to their child’s upbringing, and the common answer you’ll receive is the word “education”. Traditionally, success was measured by grades and prestigious university admissions. However, in a rapidly evolving world, the definition of quality education has expanded.
Beyond academic achievement, there is a growing emphasis on holistic education, focusing on character development and soft skills. This shift challenges the conventional belief, championing a more comprehensive approach that nurtures the mind, body and spirit. We sat down with renowned British educator and head of Epsom College, Sir Anthony Seldon, an advocate for holistic education, to understand what makes a good education.
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Above Seldon is an advocate for holistic education
Seldon is an advocate for holistic education
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“Holistic education is about balance,” Seldon asserts, dispelling the notion that exams are the sole measure of a student’s success. He decries the prevalent pressure-cooker systems in some schools, noting their profound damage to the well-being of young minds. “Exams are important, but they’re not [everything],” he reiterates, urging a shift towards a more rounded development of intellect and character.
Seldon suggests that the key to achieving holistic education lies in creating a learning environment that fosters curiosity, human interaction, problem-solving, and relationship building. “It’s about managing yourself so that you can lead a happy and fulfilling life. So, in essence, holistic education is [synonymous with] good education,” he explains.
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Above Seldon stresses the importance of balance in education
Seldon stresses the importance of balance in education
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When questioned about the apparent conflict between academic results and holistic education, Seldon clarified that achieving excellent results, exemplified by Epsom College, does not diminish the importance of holistic development. “We’re talking about academic results and holistic education. The school is not doing a good job if it’s not getting the best possible result out of young people. It’s about more than just exam results,” he emphasises.
Of course, mental health is an essential component in holistic education, as Seldon stresses the importance of balance, advocating for an approach that puts the child first. “If a child is [constantly pushed] to work, work, work, it’s not surprising that they become dull and alienated, and their mental health hasn’t had a chance to [flourish],” he cautions.
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Above Seldon believes that holistic education does not conflict with academic excellence
Seldon believes that holistic education does not conflict with academic excellence
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Addressing the question of where educators and parents should start, Seldon humorously suggested, “They should start at Epsom College. That’s a very good place to start.” He highlights the importance of listening to children, allowing them to steer the educational journey and develop their character from a young age, adding, “It is a disservice to send your children to a crammer and believe that you are being a good parent. Instead, you are [acting out of fear], potentially instilling a sense of failure in your children.”
Reflecting on his advocacy over the years, Seldon acknowledges the changing education landscape. “Malaysia needs to catch up because universities want to have young people who are more than just their [academic] results,” he notes, believing that the true challenge lies in convincing educators and parents that holistic education does not conflict with academic excellence but rather complements it.
Credits
Photography: Daniel Adams
Sim Wie Boon is the general manager of Tatler Malaysia. Previously the print and digital editor, Sim hails from the land of the hornbills, Sarawak. Sim is now based in Kuala Lumpur and brings more than a decade of experience in the media industry as a journalist and broadcast producer.
As a self-proclaimed geriatric millennial, he appreciates the finer things in life, from savouring a sip of single malt whisky to relishing in the deliciousness of char siew. While reminiscing about the indie-sleaze era, Sim now finds solace in the soothing tunes of ambient music, staying active through running and occasionally succumbing to the addictive world of doom scrolling.
Follow him on Instagram or Threads at @simwb
