Positive and upbeat Principals create a “ripple effect” leading to positive and happy communities. The happiness of individual Principals has a far reaching affect. According to author Andy Cope, “Your happiness reaches three degrees of people removed from you, so if you’re really happy and positive, then every single person you meet during that day is going…
Education Crisis Looming
A perfect storm is brewing in Australian education and it’s likely to have a major impact for many years. An aging population of stressed teachers at risk of burnout, problems retaining new graduates, rising enrolments, challenging student behaviour and the declining status of teaching all contribute to a potential crisis in education. Quality teaching is…
Self Nourishing Activities
I hope that you have spent a week being on YOUR own side – this can simply be internally in terms of your self-talk and how long you stay with positive emotions and experiences but it might also be an external practice where you physically and spiritually nourish yourself. I’m urging you to try the…
Alternatives to Collective Punishment
I suspect many teachers have had an experience like this: A paper airplane, ball of paper, or pencil flies through the air, or somebody makes an obnoxious noise. The object is probably aimed at another student, and it may or may not hit the intended target. The noise is just meant to be funny. You…
Make it Personal On World Teacher’s Day
Whilst many schools hold a special assembly or morning tea to mark World Teachers’ Day on Friday 31 October, I believe that a personal touch in showing appreciation is even better. This year I’m encouraging you to send a personal, handwritten note through the post to each of your teachers, at their home. The prevalence…
US Schools Recognise Importance of Teacher Wellness Initiatives
The National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) in the United States have recognised the importance of Teacher Wellness initiatives. An article by psychologist and author Adam Sáenz in the latest edition of Principal magazine highlights “Principals play a key role in this crucial—but overlooked—aspect of staff development.” “Kids can’t do their best in school if they…
Teacher Morale At 20 Year Low in U.S. – Australia Too?
The New York Times reports that teacher morale in the United States is at a 20 year low and I believe that may be the case in Australia too. Key Factors Contributing to Low Teacher Morale A number of factors are contributing to reduced levels of teacher morale. Change fatigue, increased levels of accountability, high…
WEBINAR – Avoiding the 7 Sins of Leading Change in Schools
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WEBINAR – Uncovering the Real Barriers to Staff Engagement in Schools
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WEBINAR – Building Trust – the ONE essential skill school leaders need.
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