#13 David Cresswell, Head of Hereford Cathedral School

Welcome to Destination Education UK, in this insightful conversation, Ruth Benny speaks with David Cresswell, Headmaster of Barnard Castle School (Barney), about his international upbringing, his journey from student to educator, and what makes modern British boarding schools so relevant — and human — today. From his diplomatic childhood to Oxford, teaching, coaching, and leading, David shares how balance, authenticity, and character form the foundation of his educational philosophy. He also touches on preparing students for a rapidly changing world, how schools can teach “human skills,” and why community warmth and humility remain Barney’s greatest strengths. Don’t miss this insightful conversation! 💡 Why Listen: From Prague to Oxford to Headship: David’s unconventional path to leading one of the UK’s most down-to-earth boarding schools. Inside “Barney”: How Barnard Castle School blends high performance with warmth, character, and community. Parent Perspective: Advice for parents anxious about sending children to boarding school — and how teachers “anticipate everything.” Human Skills in the Age of AI: Why education is now a conversation, not a one-way process. Beyond Grades: How reflection, character-building, and self-awareness help students reach their full potential. No Phones, More Play: Why Barney banned mobile phones and what happened next. The Barney Spirit: “Hard graft and good crack” — the school’s unpretentious approach to ambition. 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 David's Journey Through Education 09:09 The Role of Parents in Education 20:08 Teaching as a Vocation 28:24 The Importance of Grades vs. Character 29:56 Navigating Modern Education Challenges 30:13 Exploring International Education Opportunities 31:38 Balancing Privilege and Real-World Preparation 32:58 Community Values and School Environment 35:33 Fostering Human Skills and Communication 36:50 Inspiring Ambition and Building Character 38:52 Listening and Community Engagement 42:44 Academic Ambition and Curriculum Evolution 44:00 Maximizing Student Potential 45:50 Community and Respect Among Students 48:03 Education as a Conversation 51:19 Reflections on Community and Environment 52:34 riverside_top_schools outro_top_schools (1).mp4 — 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