February 2023 – Happy Schools

Outcomes That Count

February 23, 2023

Feeling pressured by expectations placed on you in the classroom? It’s not just you! We’re in the midst of a stress epidemic and it’s showing up everywhere. So how do we minimise it? It could come down to the questions you ask. Questions worth asking are: ‘How do I sustain myself?’ and then, ‘How do I work towards outcomes that are sustainable and satisfying for my students?’. Both of these can be answered by focusing on outcomes that count in the long run. Can you remember your own school years? Which teachers do you remember? What was it that you remember most about them? Was it the score you received for a particular assessment? Probably not. Was it the type…

The Joy of Change (Part 2)

February 16, 2023

Stevef

Behaviour Management

In part 1, I talked about the neuroplasticity of the brain and the importance of the heart level emotional connection of the “what’s in it for me if I change” component. Learning If we want someone to do something different, we have to give them enough information, knowledge and training to feel supported and confident that they can do what is being asked of them. Learning makes a huge difference. It is also the way to keep our brains young and vital; and not just simple stuff – we have to learn things that are completely different or something we have never done before. Even before I learned about this, I had always had a dream to play the harp.…

The Joy of Change (Part 1)

February 9, 2023

Stevef

Resilience

This is my next mission – to help people understand that change is possible and can be joyful. The good news is that science says we can change! We are not hard wired. A leopard can change its spots. Well, maybe a leopard can’t, but we can! Essentially, neuroplasticity describes the brain’s ability to set up new connections – everything in life is about connections, at a brain and heart level. The Brain Level and the Power of Focus and Attention I somehow knew this when I was 23 and practicing as a new, enthusiastic, and excited physical therapist. I was working in the neurological ward and I used to explain to my stroke patients that the first time they…

Successful Parent Information Sessions

February 2, 2023

Stevef

Behaviour Management

Parent information sessions are often the first point of contact between parents and teachers. They present a unique opportunity for teachers to showcase their own strengths and those of the school. Maximising this opportunity can improve the quality of communication and cooperation between parents and school staff. This can set us up for success throughout the entire year by building solid working relationships with parents, enhancing the professional image of the teacher, showcasing the school as a well-organised and high quality learning environment and demonstrating the teacher’s commitment and enthusiasm. Many teachers present confidently in front of their students but are nervous about presenting to adults. It’s important to be clear on your intentions for the session and to think…