As an educator, I often find myself returning to the core pillars that stand at the heart of not just teaching, but life itself: mindset, character, and values. These aren’t just buzzwords; they are the coordinates that navigate the journey of learning and living. Mindset refers to the collection of attitudes and beliefs that shape one’s thoughts and actions. It’s about how we perceive our abilities and potential. A ‘growth mindset,’ a term coined by psychologist Carol Dweck, encapsulates the belief that abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. It is a perspective that cham ..read more

Finding and enrolling your children into a new school is possibly one of the hardest decisions parents will ever make. The future of your little angels lies in the hands of you as you make the decision of which school they will attend for the next 6 years. All schools boast the same amazing features when you look on their websites, brochures or school prospectus’ but what kinds of things should parents be looking out for before signing on the dotted line. Here are my top ten questions all parents should ask: 1. What is your policy on child protection? How often are you staff trained on child ..read more

As the world evolves, our educational approach must also adapt, inspiring stewardship and understanding of global challenges. I’ve crafted curriculum outcomes that blend primary school subjects with real-world activities, fostering curiosity and a proactive mindset in young learners. The study of rainforests – Let’s build a classroom mini-rainforest to explore biodiversity and promote ecosystem conservation. The study of writing letters – Let’s impact future policies by writing persuasive letters to leaders about environmental or social issues. The study of insects – Let’s create a habitat ..read more

This is my mum. When I was little she used to be so kind to everyone and everything. She taught me the art of finding happiness in being a nice human. If you want your children to be kind, it’s easy! Model it! If a spider appears in your house, don’t kill it. Catch it gently, tell your children that he probably has a family waiting in a web and put him back outside. If somebody is struggling to find their way in the street, ask them if they need directions. Compliment people in front of other people! Lift them up and make their day! Tell people that you love them! Hug them, kiss them and tel ..read more

My top ten lessons for children that you won’t find in any curriculum: You’ll feel happiest when you give your time and effort to help others. Try it!! When you’ve got money, but verbs not nouns. You only need a few good friends who really care about you. The world and its people are generally good. Don’t be scared to go out there and meet them. If an advertisement is telling you how good something is, you probably don’t need it. The things that make you the happiest are usually free of charge. You are not alone if you feel sad, ugly, weak or afraid. We all have insecurities and it’s very nor ..read more

To bring back the magic in your class and truly enjoy teaching again, follow the simple QTQR system: ‘Question – Teach – Question – Release’ Stage 1 – ‘Question’: Create a question around the topic you are about to teach. Make it interesting for yourself and answer it in the most engaging way possible! If the topic is geology, ask yourself, ‘What can rocks tell us about the history of the world?’ Then, go to a cave, crawl inside, and find some evidence to bring back to class and present your theory. Stage 2 – ‘Teach’: Inspire the children in your class using the question you asked yourself and ..read more

In the heart of every educational journey lies a foundational need for safety, connection, and understanding. As educators, embracing simple yet profound practices can dramatically enhance our students’ learning environments. One such practice is the ritual of shaking hands with each child as they arrive at school. This gesture, though small, wields immense power in fostering a sense of security and readiness for learning. Let’s explore three key ways in which this simple act of greeting can reduce anxiety and open doors to deeper learning. Triggering Oxytocin Release Shaking hands initiate ..read more

As dawn breaks, I’m gearing up not just to impart wisdom but to embody the roles of a guardian, healer, sibling, confidante, arbiter, guide, and more, all within the span of the next seven hours. Today, I vow to put aside my personal tribulations, becoming the beacon of hope and inspiration my students need to unlock their true potential. In the moments where life may have left an emptiness within them, I pledge to step in. Whether it’s sharing laughter to ease their solitude, offering my hand as we venture to the playground, or discovering new knowledge right alongside them, I’m there. My mi ..read more

As we stand on the cusp of a future shaped by rapid technological advancements and shifting global dynamics, the skills required to navigate and thrive in tomorrow’s world are significantly evolving. Beyond the foundational literacies in reading, writing, and arithmetic, there’s a growing emphasis on a broad set of skills critical for success in the 21st century. This article explores these essential skills, including empathy, critical thinking, creativity, adaptability, digital literacy, and lifelong learning, underscoring their importance for individuals and societies alike. Empathy: The Fo ..read more

In our classrooms, spotting a maverick amongst the desks and bright-eyed learners is a clear sign we’re doing something profoundly right. It’s not merely about academic achievements or ticking off the curriculum standards; it’s about witnessing the birth of independent thought, creativity, and the courage to challenge the known. These are the mavericks, the trailblazers who remind us that real education is about nurturing the potential to change the world. Mavericks: The Torchbearers of Change Throughout history, it’s been the mavericks who’ve rerouted the course of our collective journey. Tak ..read more