Principal's Blog

The Principal laments the use of QR code menus in restaurants,  and considers the implications for education posed by generative AI programmes such as ChatGPT.

The Principal marks the coronation of King Charles III, reflecting on his own memories of the former Prince and what the institution of monarchy might mean in a modern context.

The Principal considers how playing games is a fundamental human instinct, explores why so many games involve overcoming an obstacle, and why learning through play is a key part of education.

The Principal considers the phenomenon of lists, ranging from personal and professional to-do lists to literary and historical lists, finding them helpful, often beautiful, and a useful aide-memoire for students.    

The Principal considers what it means to encounter a reality other than our own, how education can help to transform one’s outlook, and how we might extend that opportunity to those less privileged than ourselves.

The Principal considers the phenomenon of cheating, from old chess machines to modern sports stars, to students in exams, and examines how AI is taking this to another level.

Please see here the text of a speech delivered last night by the Principal at the British Chamber of Commerce for Italy Christmas Dinner, outlining twelve ways to happiness.

The Principal chooses 14 of his favourite paragraphs – a mixture of writings that sparkle with intelligence, warmth and wit.

The Principal investigates the tradition of the Cabinet of Curiosities, finding in it a new model of learning that fits with the accidental delights of twenty-first century technology.

The Principal considers the part played by shadows in ancient and modern culture, and explores how, growing up, children cast a lengthening shadow upon the world.     

In advance of the elections, the Principal considers the political landscape and the need for students to understand the subtleties of ideology and the values behind power.  

Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth II

We are deeply saddened at the BSM to learn of the passing of Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth II.

She was an icon for our age. Her death represents the end of an era. It is unlikely we will see someone of her stature gracing the world stage again.

May she rest in peace.

The Principal looks at the phenomenon of ice cream, explores its history and traditions, its association with Italy, and how no childhood is complete without it.

In his last blog of this academic year, the Principal recommends 5 books and 2 films that might divert you during the summer holidays.