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ABOUT HMC

Collective heads of world-leading independent schools

Foward-thinking and dynamic, HMC has been helping its members and their schools to grow and develop since it was founded as the world's first heads' association more than 150 years ago.

LEARN MORE ABOUT HMC

MEMBERSHIP

Benefits of HMC Membership

Learn more about the key benefits of obtaining/holding HMC Membership

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HMC CONFERENCES

Speak to our Corporate Partnerships team about opportunities at HMC Autumn Conference

View the Sponsorship & Exhibition Prospectus here

HMC AT WORK

Widening access

Providing greater opportunities for pupils from less advantaged backgrounds.

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International Membership

Benefits of International Membership

Learn about the benefits of international membership of HMC (The Heads' Conference) on our webpage and in our video

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Blog

The great rewiring of childhood: Navigating the digital dilemma...

By Mark O'Brien

HMC Public Affairs Officer (Scotland)

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Blog

HMC at Ditchley Park: Mapping the future of curriculum...

By Kate Howell

Director of Education, HMC

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News — 24 March 2025

HMC Chair 2026-27 Announcement

 A collection of puzzle cards featuring various brain teasers, symbols, and codes are spread out on a table. To the right, two students wearing

Blog

Designing engaging STEM activities which appeal to neurodiverse brains

By Hannah Harrison-Hughes

Head of Chemistry, Howell’s School Llandaff, Trust Consultant Teacher for STEM, GDST

 A group of six female students in school uniforms stand behind two seated teachers in a science classroom. The students are holding large, colorful letters spelling 'STEM' and a hashtag sign reading '#STEMnation.' One of the seated teachers, dressed in a blue suit, is holding a framed STEM Nation Award certificate. The group is smiling, and the background features science classroom elements, including posters, lab equipment, and wooden cabinets.

Blog

The future is bright for women in STEM

By Dr Fiona Neave

Head of Chemistry at The Mary Erskine School (Erskine Stewart Melville)

Two young presenters, a woman in a gray sweater and glasses and a man in a white dress shirt, stand on a dimly lit stage, each holding a microphone and wearing blue lanyards with event badges. The woman appears to be speaking, while the man smiles as he listens. The background is dark, emphasizing their presence under stage lighting.

Blog

How project-based learning prepares students for the future

By Philip Ford

Director of Innovation at The High School of Glasgow

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HMC via LinkedIn

HMC on LinkedIn

HMC AT WORK

For our members and more

Working hard across a number of key areas.

OUR SCHOOLS

Globally recognised as world-leading

HMC schools are individual and distinctive but at their heart are the benefits of a holistic education: academic excellence together with a strong emphasis on pastoral care and exceptional co-curricular provision.

Find HMC schools

Conferences

Effective collaboration in Independent Education

HMC’s conferences provide fascinating insights, opportunities for networking and sharing ideas as well as the chance to grow and develop professionally.

Explore Conferences

“Exceptional courses and conferences to help achieve your career goals and become the best practitioner you can be.”

Nicola Huggett

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Developing inspirational teachers and leaders

Forward-thinking and dynamic, HMC has been helping its members and their schools to grow and develop since it was founded as the world’s first heads’ association more than 150 years ago. Our service encourages and supports excellence in teaching, learning and school leadership through the 80 courses and conferences it provides each year. HMC’s Professional Development caters specifically for the needs of leaders and staff in HMC schools and its programme is also open to members of other independent school associations.

View upcoming Courses