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 MoreCommunication
How leaders communicate is vital. Do you tear down, or do you build up? Are you hyper-critical, or able to straddle the line of constructive feedback which pushes people to reach for more and encouraging affirmation? There’s an art to communication. It takes effort, thought, practise. Use it wisely.
Read MoreThree non-cognitive skills essential for all teachers.
1. The ability to empathise2. The ability to notice small details3. The ability to be both reflective and reflexive Not for a moment am I suggesting that these traits are inherent and possessed naturally. These abilities can be cultivated with diligent effort and application. In fact, some of the best teachers I have encountered have…
Read MoreAre you hearing the students but not listening?
Let me presume that the average, well run classroom is full of conversation, most of which will be productive talk about the work the teacher has instructed pupils to do. With this in mind, there is ample opportunity for teachers to listen in on learning conversations as well as responses directly offered by students during…
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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