The way you treat people is what they become. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. When we sit down with a teacher after observing their lesson, we think carefully about all the myriad elements we might choose to feedback. And mostly we know to only select the one or two elements which are helpful for them to work on right at … Continue reading A positive way of giving a negative message
relationships
To do or not to do
One never notices what has been done; one can only see what remains to be done. Marie Curie We all use to do lists. For food shopping, reminders for our children, holiday packing and of course at work. From the back of an envelope to a computer screen, this most simple of reminders seems to … Continue reading To do or not to do
Being authentic
“Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others.” Desiderata - Max Ehrmann I spoke with our school leaders last week about why I believe that being authentic is key to how we forge relationships and work as a team. In July, I discussed with our chairs of governors how we could better support … Continue reading Being authentic
Teamwork 2/Organising your team
“Life punishes the vague wish and rewards the specific ask” Tim Ferris So now we have the right balance in the team how do we get it to function well? Some teams just hum. Seeing them operate is like watching the peleton in a cycle race. While a crocodile of lycra streams along a sunflower-strewn … Continue reading Teamwork 2/Organising your team
The La La Land of good teaching
Having spent some half term time with the family toe-tapping at La La Land and weeping at Lion, here are my film-inspired thoughts on some of the elements of good teaching: 1. Command the classroom: really own it. Understand your physicality, presence and how you manage them room. No excuses: high expectations, coats, wires, posture, noise. If … Continue reading The La La Land of good teaching
10 steps to turn the ship
In his book “Turning the ship around” L. David Marquet uses his experience as the captain of the nuclear submarine the Santa Fe, to redefine a different kind of leadership style. Being confronted with the worst performing submarine in the US fleet he watched at first hand as those he led blindly followed poor orders … Continue reading 10 steps to turn the ship