All set up for a few days in Delamere, camping with Kate and Dan. Will be a little different this time because Dan has a broken arm so the originally planned cycling, wakeboarding and other stuff is on hold. Nevertheless, we’re away and enjoying glorious weather and family time. It’s been quite a year with … Continue reading
I’m alright, it’s the others!
Do you have a quote you live your life by or think of often? Springing into the building with a smile bigger than the Amazon and deserving of a medal bigger than a dustbin lid, a wonderful colleague nearly always replied to the question “How are you?”, with “I’m alright – it’s the others!” Never … Continue reading
Take responsibility
It’s been a really good week to be honest with new relationships starting in the workplace and with optimism, positivity and clarity, moving forwards. Sometimes we get lost in, and even sidetracked, moving from one place to another, or one challenge to another. I often say to people, take a step back, regulate yourself and … Continue reading
Life without limits
Working with a range of people in a range of places; it’s such an interesting, valuable position that should be appreciated and savoured. What some people see, others do not, and what some people strive for, others have absolutely no concept of. Also, some people are ready to write people off; just saying the same … Continue reading
Looking Forward 4 – Provide the opportunities
It’s been a fantastic week with the women’s lionesses winning the European Championships and the conversations about levelling up. Add to that, giving children the opportunity to play football at schools is on just about every radio station and media outlet. Having been in teaching now for 25 years I’ve seen those opportunities given to … Continue reading
Looking Forward 3 – It is meant to be
When people say it is meant to be, there is a faith that what happens next will be something bigger and better. People’s actions result in changes that affect the next step in life and if you’ve been a good person, you’ll reap the rewards. Call it karma, call it consequences, but it is what … Continue reading
Looking Forward 2 – Chasing Numbers
It’s the start of the summer break and time now for many to take time to relax, recuperate and live. It is strange how people get so engrossed in their work and do their best for the people that they serve but it is somewhat worrying that that dedication, in certain roles, has a negative … Continue reading
Care Enough to Find the Solution
Everyday life and very much so, life in schools, discussions and circles really do make a difference. When you observe, reflect and do a little analysis of the altercations that occur between people, it is always (from my experience) the lack of discussion and willingness to listen that holds back the resolution. People may be … Continue reading
Why are we here?
One month ago (31 May) I made a call and sent an email to resign. It is a decision that in many ways I did not want to make: working in schools is a wonderful career; leading colleagues and shaping what is provided for a large number of people is hugely rewarding; seeing the opportunities … Continue reading
Time Out
Sitting in a coffee shop enjoying a latte. Lots of Happy Diwali messages popping on on WhatsApp, via email and other platforms. Some good time to reflect on what has been an interesting few months for various reasons. So many layers, topics, conversations – lots of material that you could write a book with. To … Continue reading