Episode 05: Schools Focussing on Academia is a Modern Fad
Release Date: 02/18/2021
WHERE'S YOUR HEAD AT?
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“Compliance-based approaches in education have not worked so we need a more relational focus.” A Quick Summary In this episode of 'Where's Your Head at?', hosts Richard Henry, James Dalziel, and James McDonald engage in a thought-provoking conversation with educational consultant, Sue Chandler. With over 30 years of experience, Sue discusses her pivotal career moments and the importance of integrating wellbeing into school systems. The discussion explores the challenges and benefits of moving from compliance-based approaches to a more relational focus in education, addressing both...
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A Quick Summary In this podcast episode of "Where's Your Head At", Dr. Ellen Heyting, an experienced educator and researcher from Melbourne Metrics, discusses the critical challenges in international education, focusing on the need to transform assessment systems and prioritize student agency. She argues that current high-stakes examination models are restrictive, causing mental health issues and limiting students' potential, and advocates for a more holistic approach that recognizes broader competencies and empowers students as producers of their own learning. Currently, Ellen is spearheading...
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A Quick Summary In this episode of "Where's Your Head At" podcast, Deidre Fischer, an experienced educational leader and consultant, shares her profound insights into international education. The conversation explores her remarkable career journey, from a typing teacher to an international school leader and executive coach, while discussing critical challenges and opportunities in modern education. Deidre emphasizes the importance of preparing students for life beyond school, focusing on holistic learning, skills development, and challenging traditional metrics of success. We hope you...
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A Quick Summary In this episode of the "Where's Your Head At" podcast, Erin Kent, founder of Erin Kent Consulting, shares her extensive experience in international education and literacy consulting. With a background spanning from Teach for America to leading a global consulting group, Erin discusses the evolving landscape of international education, particularly focusing on literacy instruction, the unique opportunities in international schools, and the critical role of leadership in driving educational innovation. In this enlightening episode of the "Where's Your Head At" podcast, hosts sit...
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"my hope is that we will actually use the learning sciences, neuropsychology, cognitive science and psychology in service of this thing called schooling" A Quick Summary In this episode of Where's Your Head At, hosts Richard Henry, James Dalziel and James McDonald dive deep into the world of international education with the esteemed Bambi Betts. With over three decades of experience, Bambi has dedicated her career to fostering leadership and professional development within international schools. As the founder of the Principals' Training Center, she has influenced countless educators...
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"school leaders, in general, are humble people...and they don't share their great ideas. In fact, many times they don't realize it's a great idea because it's just what they do". A Quick Summary Unlock the secrets of educational transformation as we explore the dynamic world of international learning with Dr. David Stegall. Discover how Dr. Stegall transitioned to the role of Chief of System Innovation at the Department of Defense Education...
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A Quick Summary Unlock the keys to effective educational governance and marketing strategies in our latest episode! Join Richard Henry, James Dalziel, and James MacDonald as we navigate this topic from Brisbane, Bangkok, and Brussels. We’re honored to welcome Russell Russell Speirs, founder of RS Academics, who enlightens us on the indispensable relationship between school leaders and their boards. Learn from Russell's vast experience in school leadership recruitment and governance consultancy, and discover how good governance can transform educational environments. Our discussion then...
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“Your network is the place that you learn.” - James MacDonald A Quick Summary Have you ever pondered the path to an educational leadership position? Our journey today takes us through the winding roads of educational leadership. We share tales from our own experiences, and we unearth the essential skills you need to thrive. It’s all about upskilling, networking, and active engagement in the learning community. We’ll discuss why these actions are so critical and how you can incorporate them into your own professional growth. Show notes In this episode… (0:00:01)...
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In this show, the “Where’s Your Head At?” hosts talk with Tony Little about how he started his career in education, his advice for leaders and whether the past or future is a better time to live in. Tony’s rich experience at Eton College is discussed along with the concept that “leaders must work from the heart”. You will also hear Tony’s insightful thoughts on what will be important in education in the next 20 years.
Show notes
In this episode…
Introduction of Tony Little (2.45)
What is Tony doing today? (4.50)
How did Tony get into education? (7.30)
What was the genesis of Tony’s first book? (8.20)
What is key for a good leader? (11.10)
What made Eton special and what is the ‘game changer’ in education today? (12.20)
Can we substitute teachers with tech? (15.20)
Advice for school leaders today (17.30)
How do we get the balance right? (18.50)
Where would Tony prefer to live...in the past or the future? (20.30)
Leaders must carve out time for themselves (23.20)
What were the key lessons Tony witnessed in his career? (24.20)
How to contact Tony (27.30)
Bio
Tony Little
Tony Little spent seven years as housemaster of Brentwood School, seven years as the headmaster of Chigwell School, six years as headmaster of Oakham School and 13 years as Head Master of Eton College. From 2015-18 he was Chief Education Officer of GEMS Education responsible for ensuring the quality of education across the global chain. From September 2018 he became President of the World Leading Schools Association, Shanghai Academy, developing a new generation of not-for-profit, needs-blind high schools in China. He also became Chair of the Laurus Trust, a multi-academy trust operating in the Manchester area. Since September 2020 he is the Chair of Governors at London Academy of Excellence, Stratford. Also the author of two books: An Intelligent Person's Guide to Education, and "Adolescence - How to Survive It",
Tony Little was educated at Eton College in Berkshire where he was a music scholar, and at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, where he was a choral scholar and gained an upper second class honours degree in English language and literature. He received a Master of Arts in English as well as Postgraduate Certificate in Education (Distinction) at Homerton College, Cambridge
Link
- Tony’s Email Address: [email protected]