How do you know?
Two terms into my current role as headteacher I have been given plenty to reflect upon. If I am successful as a school leader, what would be different about the school in which I lead? If I have been succeedful …
Teaching
Applying teaching strategied, techniques and ideas.
A different kind of hard truths
The first round of observations are either under way or out of the way. Feedback or coaching has presumably been issued or shared. There are other opportunities too, hiding in plain sight. And possibly, the #dontsmilebeforechristmas brigade, hyped-up and hyper-vigilant, are about …
Postcards with Spark
There is a truck load of posts and articles on the use of praise; when to praise, what to praise, tiered praise systems, public or private praise, the fragilities of praise and praise or feedback? With all that in mind, …
Buttoned down
There is not too much to say. That is the point. What you do say, needs to be meaningful (easier said than done for a chatterbox like me). That is why, when you are not getting it quite right, you need …
Whole class marking and feedback
What, drawn, and talk of workload? I hate the word, As I hate hell, all managers, and thee. Have at thee, coward! Here we are again in January 2024, still discussing our Marking Policy and bemoaning the workload. Teachers should …
A very AVERAGE post
Today, the first day of a new term, started with two short presentations from two of our PLCs (Personal Learning Communities) as part of “Monday” Teaching and Learning briefings. These briefings are important to my view of leading a school, …
Commitment and respect
As a teacher, I was always looking for inspiring narratives to challenge and inspire young people to be better, braver more determined. I curated a Youtube play list and created a “Challenge and Inspire” page on this blog some five years ago. I am still …
#TLT16 – find something better than PRP
The conversations around #TLT16 have been thriving today. David Fawcett and Jenn Ludgate are fantastic organisers, Southampton University grand hosts and the many presenters that prepare the sessions deserve an honorable mention (I know I enjoyed mine). This year, I …