Welcome to The Parish Pod

Welcome to the Parish Pod — your local lowdown on all things politics, parish, and community. Your hosts are Greg Broadbent Pippa Rowen, and Steve Knee, all serving councillors on the Duffield Parish Council. We’re diving into what’s happening on the ground, the decisions that matter, and how your local council really works behind the scenes — without the jargon, and with just a touch of humour. Let’s get stuck in.

Episode 1 - Hello Duffield and Quarndon

Episode 2 - LGR and all that with Simon Gladwin

Episode 3 - The former Mid Derbyshire MP Pauline Latham OBE

Episode 4 - Raising a glass at Bradmans

Episode 5 - No sex please, with the Quarndon Am Drams

Episode 6 - A chat and a pint with the Duffield Community Association

As headteacher of William Gilbert Endowed C of E Primary School in Duffield, I am often reminded of the extraordinary legacy that surrounds our school—not just in its rich history dating back to 1565, but in the ongoing support that continues to shape the lives of our pupils long after they leave us. Many former pupils are now parents at the school!

Our school benefits from the support of two structures: the Duffield Endowed School Foundation, a registered charity that owns the land on which our school stands; and provides a vital role in our governance, strategic direction, and financial support. We are a Church of England school. Our Christian ethos—Through Faith, Hope and Love we learn together—guides everything we do. In fact, the positive impact of this on the children was praised by the school inspectors. Our active PTA is vital in current times when our budget is stretched.

We believe that education is more than academic success. Being active and outdoors is vital for children. Duffield is blessed with many green spaces to enjoy. Our children love Forest School down on Eyes Meadow, building dens in Millenium meadow nature reserve, and of course some hot chocolate! Gray’s Rec hosts our sports day, and autumn walks. Our Christmas and Easter services take place at St Alkmund’s church with Revd Hughes.

We add plenty of enriching experiences too! Music is a passion for the school, not only learning instruments but our amazing inclusive choir who regularly perform in the local community and wider community. The impact of singing for the Bishop of Derby in the Cathedral or performing at Birmingham NEC is transformative for pupils’ confidence, aspiration, and sense of belonging! We even have an award-winning dodge ball team, making our way up to the national competitions last term!

We have numerous Eco school awards – fresh air days to reduce car emissions is part of this. Many children walk, cycle or scoot to school. We’re the first school in Derbyshire to have a traffic free Safe School Area.

Our school’s impact doesn’t end at Year 6. An extended legacy is the Ivan Wright Award, a charitable fund established by a former pupil and local bank manager. Each year, former students can apply for a donation to support their university studies—for every year of their degree!

There is so much more to tell you about William Gilbert school. Come up to see us for a warm welcome!

Episode 7 - The inside track on William Gilbert School with Helen Britten