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
It’s The Others
It’s been a very interesting few months, having switched sides as some would say. When an opportunity arises to work in an area you’ve never worked in before; and to learn about different ways, it’s something you really should take on – my view. For those that know me, you’ll know I work predominantly with … Continue reading
Summer is Back – Day 1
It isn’t really Day 1 because living in Leicester, the summer break started 8 school days ago, so today is really day 8. That aside, the first week was a bit of a write-off with self-isolation imposed and the wind-down required to start enjoying a break needed. Teaching is one of those jobs where you … Continue reading
What’s the difference?
Well, it has certainly been an eventful few weeks. As we get closer to the end of the year and in primary schools, say goodbye to out Year 6 children, the emotions run high. At secondary, we hopefully get excited to get to know the children soon to join us; support those about to embark … Continue reading
Do Your Thing
Sitting in accident and emergency just to be safe, checking Dan hasn’t chipped a bone in his leg. Never missed these days from when I played football but it’s part of the deal. Time to look around and reflect on the day and recent days gone by. In the world of work it is interesting. … Continue reading
Playing in sand though, have you tried it?
Ten days into the Easter break now and some rest had. The headlines about a need for discipline, quiet corridors and control in classrooms is very disturbing – to think the people in key positions see this as a reality; a necessity. It is rather baffling and yes, disturbing. I have not seen the same … Continue reading
Time to Rest
Three weeks completed with all children back at school. About a week a go we were talking about how it would be great to keep going rather than the stop-start nature of now. Another week on and I’m glad the break is here. To be fair, we haven’t stopped for almost a year. Even in … Continue reading
Share, Collaborate and Communicate
Whatever you do and whether part of a job or not, it’s important to talk. My sharing your ideas and successes; your efforts and failures, others can learn from you. Others can help you. To collaborate is a benefit for all concerned and should not be seen as anything other. Imagine the two-way learning and … Continue reading