Typically, when teachers consider school curricula, the prevailing idea is that of academic disciplines: Maths, English and Science receiving the most credence within the entire spectrum of subjects. But few educators would argue with any real seriousness that this is the only thing that determines the nurturing of young minds. The development of character, values,…
Read MoreIt All Starts at the Gate
And that’s because gates are thresholds and thresholds symbolise beginnings. I’m reminded of the Chronicles of Narnia stories where the protagonists stand at the entrance of a portal that leads to another world. This is somewhat like the start of school where students leave one world; home and the outside, and then enter the world…
Read MorePandemic and Pastoral
Some big questions have been floating around my mind as I try to imagine a school system which caters to the needs of its students during online learning caused by the pandemic. How do we build community when many are distant from the physical school? How can parents get involved and engaged when we cannot…
Read MoreGet Behaviour Right
For students to make good progress, other than good teaching, behaviour must be good. Without great behaviour, learning is interrupted, the natural flow of teaching is stuttered and focus is lost. Two aspects of behaviour must be tackled. The microcosm,and the macrocosm. The macrocosm is largely the responsibility of leaders and the ethos they seek…
Read MoreBuilding Strong Relationships with Pupils
All good teaching and good pupil progress is built on strong relationships. That’s a fact. Don’t believe it? Try listening to some advice from a person you really dislike! I am blessed enough to have a number of beautiful and enriching relationships in my life. My wife, children, parents and various friends and colleagues. However,…
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