#12 - Dr Michael Gray - Head of Hereford Cathedral School

In this episode of Destination Education UK, host Ruth Benny chats with Dr Michael Gray, Head of Hereford Cathedral School, about what makes a truly modern education. From his own journey through the UK system to leading one of the country’s historic schools, Dr Gray shares honest reflections on co-ed vs single-sex learning, the challenges facing independent schools, and how to prepare students for an ever-changing world. Don’t miss this insightful conversation! 🎧 Why listen: Discover why education should prepare students for life beyond the classroom. Hear candid insights on the financial challenges facing independent schools today. Learn why kindness, courage, and integrity remain the heart of great education. Explore the powerful impact of music and the arts on student growth. Understand why Holocaust education is essential to shaping empathy and awareness. Compare the strengths of single-sex and co-educational learning environments. See how technology can drive innovation and engagement in the classroom. Find out how community involvement enriches school life. Get inspired by how international expansion opens new opportunities for students. Gain perspective on the balance between leadership, vision, and educational purpose. Can't wait for you to plug into this conversation, so grab a cup of tea☕️ and enjoy the episode! For more resources related to today’s episode and others, visit www.topschoolsadmissions.com Enjoy the episode for expert advice to guide your school selection journey. Visit www.topschoolsadmissions.com for more on Tudor Hall, and to enquire via our exclusive link. Start exploring top UK schools today! Chapter Lists 00:00 Introduction to UK Education and Personal Background 02:37 Experiences in Comprehensive and Independent Schools 05:28 Transition from Teaching to Leadership Roles 08:07 The Debate: Single-Sex vs Co-Educational Schools 10:59 Challenges Facing the Independent Education Sector 13:39 Innovative Approaches at Hereford Cathedral School 16:23 The Role of Technology in Education 19:22 International Expansion and Global Education 21:52 Core Values and Community Engagement 24:47 Holocaust Education and Historical Context 27:45 The Importance of Music and Arts in Education 30:12 Final Thoughts and Recommendations — Follow Destination Education: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/destination_education_uk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@DestinationEducationUK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/destination_education_uk LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/destinationeducationUk Website: www.topschoolsadmissions.com The Destination Education UK podcast is your ultimate guide to navigating the exciting, sometimes overwhelming journey of studying in the UK. Hosted by Ruth Benny— education expert and parent with firsthand experience raising children educated in Hong Kong and the United Kingdom—this show delivers insights, expert tips, inspiration and practical strategies for parents and students in, or considering the UK education system. If you're a parent on this journey—start here. Follow along, and let's take the stress out of school admissions together. Watch our FREE Masterclass on UK Boarding Schools and request a non-obligatory consultation here: https://www.topschoolsadmissions.com/UKBoardingSchools/ Subscribe to our channel here: Listen to Destination Education Podcast 🎧 New episodes twice a month! Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/0UTWe6azTalKupYEwrtET0?si=3d898b7e7c094fec Apple podcasts link: https://podcasts.apple.com/hk/podcast/destination-education-uk/id1820594988 Get help to find the perfect fit UK school for your child : www.topschoolsadmissions.com 🔔 Subscribe now and hit the bell to catch every episode! Join us to learn, grow, and unlock the secrets of UK education. Visit www.TopSchoolsAdmissions.com for personalized guidance on your school selection journey. 📍 Connect with us: https://www.topschoolsadmissions.com/deuk