Nicola Morgan Returns to Westonbirt to Celebrate 20 Years of Blame My Brain 

1st October 2025

Award-winning author and former pupil Nicola Morgan returned to Westonbirt this term to mark the 20th anniversary of her internationally acclaimed book Blame My Brain: The Amazing Teenage Brain Revealed. 

Nicola gave two fascinating talks to staff, and to parents and pupils about the science behind teenage behaviour and how understanding the developing brain can help young people thrive. Her insights resonated deeply with both students and staff, sparking thoughtful discussions about learning, wellbeing and the pressures teenagers face today. 

“It was obvious from the teachers’ questions and engagement that they really care about understanding the minds of the young people in their care,” Nicola reflected. “That understanding is more than half of what you need to be a good teacher or a good parent.” 

During her morning session with staff, Nicola introduced the concept of “brain bandwidth” – the idea that teenagers are often operating in survival mode, trying to navigate who they are and who they might become. This resonated so strongly that it’s since become a talked-about phrase in the staffroom. 

Nicola’s return was full of nostalgia, humour and gratitude as she caught up with former staff and walked familiar corridors for the first time in 46 years. It was a reminder of what makes Westonbirt special – a place where curiosity, compassion and lifelong learning go hand in hand. 

Looking back on her visit, Nicola was struck by how much – and how little – had changed. The historic architecture is as impressive as ever, and she found her way around easily because the grand spaces remained largely unchanged. Beyond the main house, new walled garden classrooms, and two new Prep School buildings currently under construction show the continued investment and innovation of school facilities. What captivated most since her time at school, was the profound transformation in what matters most: the teaching, pastoral care and the opportunities now available to students.  

We’re grateful to Nicola for taking the time to return to Westonbirt and share her expertise and warmth with our community. Her visit was a celebration of her remarkable work and a reminder of why it matters to understand the teenage mind – and to encourage teenagers to step out of survival mode, look up, and notice the beauty around them.