Meet Britain’s strictest head: Katharine Birbalsingh on her ultra-traditional approach

Lunchtime is quite something: a battalion of children come in with their teachers, all reciting poetry at the top of their lungs. At ‘family-style’ meals where vegetarian food is served, pupils are expected to make conversation, pour drinks and clear each other’s plates. And every day, there are set topics to discuss. (When I visit, it’s Golden Globe- and Nobel…