James Shone Inspires Pupils with Message of Self-Belief

We were delighted to welcome James Shone, one of the most inspirational speakers in education and founder of the charity I Can & I Am, to the Bacon Theatre on Tuesday. James visited Dean Close to share his remarkable story of maintaining self-belief in the face of adversity, whilst also offering practical advice to our pupils on how to build confidence and resilience.

Following a 16-year teaching career and having been offered a position as Headmaster in 2012, James was diagnosed with a brain tumour. After undergoing 27 hours of surgery, he sadly lost the majority of his sight. Despite this life-changing challenge, James has maintained a positive attitude to life.

Our pupils were captivated by James’s approach to overcoming struggles with the use of metaphors, such as the ‘yellow balloon of self-belief’ and the ‘springboard’, which aim to encourage young people to rise above difficulties both inside and outside the classroom. These powerful images helped pupils to understand the connection between stress, anxiety and mental health, and to visualise positive ways of approaching challenges. After the talk, pupils also had the opportunity to speak with James individually for follow-up questions.

At a time when academic and social pressures can easily affect self-belief, we are especially grateful for the wisdom and inspiration that James brings. His mission—to help young people recognise who they are and what they can do, rather than focusing on limitations—resonates deeply with our school values.

We would like to say a huge thanks to James for sharing his warmth, humour and vulnerability, and for leaving our pupils inspired and uplifted.