Global Ed Leaders | International School Leadership Insights

What if the secret to transforming your school culture wasn't another initiative, but learning to tend to it like a terrarium? In this episode, Shane talks to Lori Cohen about her revolutionary ecological approach to wellbeing in schools. Rather than treating wellbeing as just another programme, Lori introduces a powerful terrarium metaphor that shows how all elements of school culture work together as an interconnected ecosystem. Lori Cohen is an experienced school leader, instructional coach, and education consultant with over two decades in education. She's co-author of "Integrating Educator Well-Being, Growth, and Evaluation: Four Foundations for Leaders."Key TakeawaysWellbeing as Soil, Not Another PlantEducator wellbeing is the foundational soil from which all other school improvements growWithout healthy soil, nothing else can truly thriveRuptures Are Necessary for EvolutionChange requires some things to break down before they can be rebuilt strongerWhat needs to "die" so something better can emerge?The Fractal Approach to ChangeStart small and deep rather than broad and shallowFocus on one dimension rather than trying to fix everything at onceAllow successful patterns to naturally replicate and scaleThe Eight Dimensions of Collective WellbeingWage satisfaction and transparent compensationJob stability and role clarityWorkload management and equitable distributionAutonomy and self-efficacyInclusion in policymaking and decision-makingCommunity care and leadership modellingEmotional intelligence (individual and collective)Strong, supportive relationships that can be built, sustained, and repairedResources and LinksConnect with Lori:Lori Cohen on LinkedInIntegrating Educator Well-Being, Growth, and Evaluation: Four Foundations for Leaders by Lori Cohen and Elizabeth Denevi (Routledge)Additional Resources Mentioned:Emergent Strategy by Adrienne Marie BrownMindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol DweckThinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel KahnemanEpisode PartnerThe International Curriculum Association: Learn moreJoin Shane's Intensive Leadership Programme at educationleaders.co/intensiveShane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports school leaders globally. Passionate about empowment, he is the author of the best-selling 'Change Starts Here.' Shane is a leading educational voice in the UK, Asia and around the world.You can find Shane on LinkedIn and Bluesky. or shaneleaning.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When 89% of a population plays games and two-thirds are under 35, that's not a problem to solve - it's a medium to embrace. Today we explore a fascinating partnership between Stanford University's Human Perception Lab and Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince School, where gaming isn't just motivation - it's pedagogy. Dr. Khizer Khaderi (Stanford University) & Dr. Steffen Sommer (Misk Schools, Saudi Arabia) challenge everything we think we know about digital natives, revealing how we're systematically "un-teaching" natural curiosity and forcing students to live in two worlds: digital at home, analogue at school. From Pokemon champions attending Ivy League universities to students learning astrophysics through gameplay, this conversation reveals why the future of education lies not in dragging students back to the 20th century, but in meeting them where they already are.Key Topics DiscussedThe Gaming Revolution in EducationSaudi Arabia's unique demographic: 89% of population plays games, 70% under 35Moving from "gamification" (tricking students) to "gaming for purpose"Why gaming should be treated as sport, not just entertainmentMeeting Students Where They AreThe fundamental disconnect: teaching how we think they should learn vs. how they want to learnWhy motivation problems stem from this educational misalignmentThe danger of forcing students to live in two worlds: digital at home, analogue at schoolRethinking Traditional CurriculumWhat should we stop teaching if students can look it up in seconds?The difference between memorising times tables and understanding mathematicsWhy handwriting skills matter less in a digital worldMoving from knowledge acquisition to information verification skillsInnovation and Divergent ThinkingHow we systematically "un-teach" natural curiosityThe importance of making mistakes and asking "what if?"Cross-pollination and generalist thinking in a specialised worldAcademic innocence: why younger minds generate breakthrough ideasPractical ImplementationCreating gaming suites with educational purposeForming partnerships with universities beyond just university admissionWorking with examination boards to change assessment methodsThe role of interdisciplinary teaching and teamwork in exams Resources MentionedBook: "Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World" by David EpsteinHistorical Educational Games: Oregon Trail, MULEResearch: Daphne Bavelier's work on gaming and learning (University of Rochester, 2003)Stanford Human Perception Laboratory: Stanford HPLMisk Schools: Misk Schools WebsiteEpisode PartnerThe International Curriculum Association: Learn moreThank you for tuning in, and if you found this episode useful, please share. You can find me on LinkedIn and Bluesky.Shane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. Passionate about empowering educators, he is the author of the best-selling 'Change Starts Here.' Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shane Leaning sits down with Ruth Taylor from the Common Cause Foundation to explore the fascinating world of human values and what they mean for school leadership. Ruth shares insights from decades of social psychology research that challenges everything we think we know about motivation.Key Topics CoveredThe Schwartz Values FrameworkHow 58 human values map onto our decision-makingWhy some values are complementary whilst others are antagonisticThe difference between intrinsic and extrinsic valuesThe Values Perception GapWhy 74% of people prioritise intrinsic values like equality over extrinsic ones like wealthHow we consistently misjudge what motivates othersThe self-fulfilling prophecy this creates in our organisationsPractical Applications for School LeadersWhy competitions and prizes might backfire in the long termHow to ask "what values am I wanting to nurture?" before designing initiativesMoving from outcome-focused to values-focused leadershipCreating space for conversations about what really mattersKey InsightsWe all hold all 58 values but "dance" in different parts of the map at different timesCultural pressures often push us towards extrinsic values even when we'd naturally choose intrinsic onesYou're always strengthening values through your leadership - the question is which onesStarting small and building habits around values-based thinking can create significant changeSimply reflecting on our own values strengthens our intrinsic motivations Useful LinksRuth Taylor's website: ruthtaylor.orgCulture Soup newsletter: valuesnarrativesculture.substack.comCommon Cause Foundation: commoncausefoundation.orgSchwartz Values Framework map: Available on the Common Cause website Episode PartnerThe International Curriculum Association: Learn moreThank you for tuning in, and if you found this episode useful, please share. You can find me on LinkedIn and Bluesky.Shane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. Passionate about empowering educators, he is the author of the best-selling 'Change Starts Here.' Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My guest today is Alicia Drummond, a BACP accredited therapist and creator of The Wellbeing Hub. This conversation dives deep into why self-awareness is the foundation of effective school leadership. We explore how your internal state directly impacts your school's culture, and Alicia shares practical tools for understanding your triggers, biases, and leadership patterns. From attachment styles to the OK Corral framework, this episode is packed with actionable strategies you can use immediately.Key Points CoveredThe internal-external connection: Research shows a leader's internal state directly impacts school cultureUnderstanding triggers: How childhood experiences create leadership patterns and why physical responses are early warning systemsAttachment styles in leadership: Four styles (secure, avoidant, ambivalent, disorganised) and how they affect your ability to trust and delegatePersonal bias exercise: Practical tool to identify your "in-group" and how it affects who you support vs. overlookThe OK Corral framework: Four positions (I'm OK/You're OK, etc.) that determine how you show up in relationshipsHero/anti-hero exercise: Understanding your light and shadow sides to catch yourself when moving toward unhelpful patternsChoice, control, confidence: How awareness doesn't solve problems but gives you options for how to respondPractical meditation: Simple daily practice for building self-awareness and emotional regulation This conversation challenged me to think about how often we rush to fix external problems when the real work starts internally. The research showing how a leader's internal state directly impacts school culture is a powerful reminder that working on ourselves isn't selfish - it's essential leadership development.LinksThe Wellbeing Hub Episode PartnerThe International Curriculum Association: Learn moreThank you for tuning in, and if you found this episode useful, please share. You can find me on LinkedIn and Bluesky.Shane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. Passionate about empowering educators, he is the author of the best-selling 'Change Starts Here.' Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shane looks at the disconnect between leadership theory and practice in educational leadership qualifications, sharing insights from his conversations with leaders who've completed these programs. He identifies five common failures in leadership development courses and offers practical alternatives that actually lead to growth.Key Points85% of leaders identified peer learning and community as the most valuable aspect of leadership programs, not the content or theoryThe five failures of leadership programs:Theory without practice - providing concepts without applicationWrong context and content - programs not adapted to different educational systemsUnrealised community - superficial implementation of peer learningSimple models for complex realities - oversimplifying leadership challengesIgnoring identity - neglecting personal leadership developmentThe costs of these failures: staff turnover, misaligned teams, initiative fatigue, leadership burnout, wasted resources, and stagnant developmentWhat works instead: blending theory with immediate application, creating genuine communities of practice, contextualising learning, embracing complexity, and integrating identity development Resources MentionedEducation Leaders Intensive Programme - Shane's 12-week leadership development program starting in SeptemberLeadership Qualification Webinar - Free webinar diving deeper into this topic Episode PartnerThe International Curriculum Association: Learn moreThank you for tuning in, and if you found this episode useful, please share. You can find me on LinkedIn and Bluesky.Shane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. Passionate about empowering educators, he is the author of the best-selling 'Change Starts Here.' Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I speak with David Ingram, Founding Head of College at Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi about:How his experience as a police constable in County Durham shaped his approach to education and student wellbeingThe importance of establishing "trusted adults" for every student and how to systematically ensure this happensBuilding a comprehensive wellbeing framework that addresses academic, social, emotional, mental and physical dimensionsMoving from seeing wellbeing as a "strategic priority" to a long-term "strategic commitment"A nuanced approach to smartphones in schools that balances innovation with appropriate boundariesKey takeaways:Trusted adult relationships: Dulwich increased from 85% to 100% of primary students having a trusted adult by explicitly discussing this concept with both students and staff. They also recognized that trusted adults might be admin staff rather than just teachers.Comprehensive wellbeing frameworks: Working with positive psychologist David Bott, Dulwich developed a holistic approach to wellbeing that includes regular audits across multiple dimensions, allowing for systematic identification of areas for improvement.The AS Steer tool: This assessment tool helps identify students who present as being fine but may be struggling internally, allowing for proactive rather than reactive intervention.Smartphone policies: Rather than implementing a total ban, Dulwich restricts phone use during the school day while still embracing technology through innovative AI initiatives, creating a balanced approach that prepares students for managing technology in their future.Collaborative approaches: The success of Dulwich's wellbeing strategy relies heavily on collaboration across their school network and with external experts.Links mentioned in the episode:David Bott's work on positive psychologyAS Steer wellbeing assessment toolConnect with David Ingram on LinkedIn Episode PartnerThe International Curriculum Association: Learn moreThank you for tuning in, and if you found this episode useful, please share. You can find me on LinkedIn and Bluesky.Shane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. Passionate about empowering educators, he is the author of the best-selling 'Change Starts Here.' Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Shane gets coached on leadership interview techniques by Orla Dempsey, an expert in helping teachers secure leadership positions. Throughout their conversation, Orla shares practical frameworks and strategies that help transform interview anxiety into confidence.Key Topics Covered:The STAR technique for structuring powerful interview answersHow shifting to past tense can showcase your real experienceUsing specific numbers and data to demonstrate measurable impactResearching and aligning with a school's specific needsHandling setbacks and showing authentic humanity in interviews Connect with Orla DempseyWebsite: www.orladempseycoaching.ie Episode PartnerThe International Curriculum Association: Learn moreThank you for tuning in, and if you found this episode useful, please share. You can find me on LinkedIn and Bluesky.Shane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. Passionate about empowering educators, he is the author of the best-selling 'Change Starts Here.' Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My guest today is David Harkin, CEO and Founder of 8billionideas, which has impacted over 500,000 students in 26 countries. David is a two-time TEDx speaker, author of 'The Ripple Effect', and was ranked 8th globally by ISC Research for his contributions to the education sector in 2022. Before entering education, David was an IBM executive and was the youngest globally to receive their CEO award. In our conversation, we explore:The difference between entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial mindsetWhy school leaders should embrace a "principalpreneur" approachHow to create a culture that encourages innovation at all levelsThe three types of innovation every school needsDavid's concept of being "brilliantly busy" and what it means for leadersWhy leadership is harder than ever before in 2025The importance of transferring ideas across schools internationallyKey insights:Entrepreneurial mindset vs entrepreneurship: "Entrepreneurship is hugely misunderstood, firstly by using the word entrepreneurship and forgetting the second word entrepreneurship mindset. That's what we really need to be talking about in education."Schools as businesses: "Every school on the planet is a business, but in the business of world-class education."Three types of innovation:Transformational (major strategic initiatives)Accelerated incremental change (medium-sized projects)Incremental improvements (small, everyday gains)On modern leadership: "Leadership is harder than ever before because of the accessibility of you."Creating a culture of action: "Try and build a culture of action and then ask for forgiveness... If it's a good idea, don't ask me if you should be doing it. Just get on with it." David's outlook for education is optimistic: "The next decade is the most important decade in educational history...never before have we had the opportunity to transfer lessons as quickly as we possibly can and collectively make change."Links mentioned in this episode:8billionideasDavid's book: The Ripple Effect"Checklist Manifesto" by Atul Gawande Episode PartnerThe International Curriculum Association: Learn moreThank you for tuning in, and if you found this episode useful, please share. You can find me on LinkedIn and Bluesky.Shane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. Passionate about empowering educators, he is currently co-authoring 'Change Starts Here.' Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode, Shane Leaning discusses his new best-selling book "Change Starts Here: What if Everything Your School Needed Was Right in Front of You?", co-authored with Efram Learner. Shane shares why they wrote the book, its core philosophy, and how it can help school leaders drive meaningful change by looking inward to their communities rather than constantly seeking external solutions. Pre-order "Change Starts Here" on AmazonKey PointsThe Confidence Crisis: Many schools are experiencing a confidence crisis, constantly looking outside for solutions from consultancies and companies, inadvertently outsourcing their thinkingA Different Approach: Instead of providing prescriptive solutions, the book offers 40 powerful questions organized into 8 stages to unlock the wisdom that already exists within school communitiesBased on Design Thinking: The framework adapts the British Design Council's Double Diamond model for educational settingsAlready a Bestseller: The book has achieved bestseller status within a week of pre-orders being available What Makes This Approach DifferentEmbraces Complexity: Change involves people, and people are complex - this book doesn't try to oversimplify that realityCommunity-Centered: Involving multiple perspectives leads to better quality change and develops genuine buy-inEngages Head and Heart: Questions engage with feelings as much as thoughts, helping people follow through even when change becomes challengingWho Is This Book For?School leaders (primary audience)Teachers developing minds in their classroomsParents supporting their childrenHR managers thinking about recruitment challengesCEOs of school groupsAnyone who believes in community-led change Episode PartnerThe International Curriculum Association: Learn moreThank you for tuning in, and if you found this episode useful, please share. You can find me on LinkedIn and Bluesky.Shane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. Passionate about empowering educators, he is currently co-authoring 'Change Starts Here.' Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Call Across the Pond- Guest AppearanceShane Leaning appears as a guest on another podcast.Time zones don't matter when the conversation is this good! This bonus episode features Shane Leaning as a guest on "A Call Across the Pond: Transforming Relationships at School, at Home & Beyond" with Tara Gretton and Vicky Essebag.Episode Highlights:Why most professional development doesn't lead to lasting change in schoolsHow the outsourcing of knowledge has led to a crisis of confidence in schoolsThe four key stages of effective, community-led changeWhy "buy-in" is the wrong approach to school changeThe importance of seeing challenges as perceptions rather than factsHow my podcast journey has evolved and the incredible lessons I've learnedThe critical need to restore respect and status to the teaching profession globallySubscribe to their podcast:A Call Across the Pond: Transforming Relationships at School, at Home & BeyondThank you for tuning in, and if you found this episode useful, please share. You can find me on LinkedIn and Bluesky.Shane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. Passionate about empowering educators, he is currently co-authoring 'Change Starts Here.' Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I speak with Christina Hidek, an expert in parent engagement, about the vital role of parent communities in schools. We explore the numerous benefits of empowered parent groups and how schools can build strong, collaborative relationships with parents. Episode HighlightsThe wide-ranging benefits of engaged parent communities for schools, students, and parents.Uncovering hidden parent talents and skills to enrich the school community.Moving beyond traditional parent involvement like bake sales to more strategic partnerships.Real-world examples of how parents have helped schools solve critical challenges.Strategies for overcoming barriers and adversarial relationships between schools and parents.The importance of open communication and mutual goal-setting.How to effectively support and empower parent groups.The school leader's role in fostering positive parent-teacher relationships. Key TakeawaysEngaged parent communities are invaluable assets to schools.Schools should actively seek to understand and utilise the diverse skills and talents within their parent community.Open communication and collaboration are essential for building strong parent-school partnerships.School leaders play a crucial role in fostering a positive and productive relationship with parent communities. Links MentionedChristina's Facebook Community: Superstar PTO Leaders Group Episode PartnerThe International Curriculum Association: Learn moreThank you for tuning in, and if you found this episode useful, please share. You can find me on LinkedIn and Bluesky.Shane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. Passionate about empowering educators, he is currently co-authoring 'Change Starts Here.' Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When you announce a new initiative, do you ever get "that sigh" from your experienced teachers? You know the one - followed by "Isn't this just that thing we did back in 2005?" Today we're looking at the inevitable cycle of change in education and how to lead through it with integrity and purpose.In this bite-sized leadership episode, Shane explores why education seems to move in cycles, with approaches and methodologies appearing to come back around under new names:Why education moves in cycles: Our system is obsessed with change, there are only so many fundamental ideas in education, and new leaders often feel pressure to make their markEvolution vs cycles: The most productive way to view educational change is as an evolution rather than disconnected cyclesPractical leadership advice: Rethink change for change's sake, connect new initiatives to what came before, focus on evolution not revolution, and honor institutional knowledgeEpisode PartnerThe International Curriculum Association: Learn moreThank you for tuning in, and if you found this episode useful, please share. You can find me on LinkedIn and Bluesky.Shane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. Passionate about empowering educators, he is currently co-authoring 'Change Starts Here.' Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I speak with Neil Renton, headteacher, and Julie Wellacott, HR professional, who are pioneering flexible working approaches in UK schools through their work as Flexible Working Ambassadors.Episode Highlights:What is flexible working? Giving teachers greater control over how much, when, and where they workHow Neil's school has transformed to employ 50 teachers with some form of "part-timeness"The mindset shift required from school leaders to embrace flexibilityWhy "reason-neutral" approaches prevent bias when considering flexible working requestsSimple starting points for leaders wanting to explore flexible working optionsResearch showing that one-fifth of teachers who leave the profession move to part-time roles outside educationHow flexible arrangements like sabbaticals and phased retirement help retain experienced educatorsCreating a school culture where staff feel comfortable requesting flexibilityKey Takeaways:Flexible working isn't just about part-time hours - it encompasses location, scheduling, and workloadThe cultural shift required is substantial but pays dividends in retention and teacher wellbeingSmall, incremental changes can make a significant difference to individual teachersStart with an honest assessment of your school's current approach to flexibilityBoth research evidence and individual stories can help persuade reluctant leadersLinks Mentioned:Neil's Article in SecEdFlexible Working ToolkitEpisode PartnerThe International Curriculum Association: Learn moreThank you for tuning in, and if you found this episode useful, please share. You can find me on LinkedIn and Bluesky.Shane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. Passionate about empowering educators, he is currently co-authoring 'Change Starts Here.' Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever found yourself drowning in tasks that others could do, but somehow you're still doing them yourself? Today, Shane Leaning shares a framework that completely transformed how he delegates - and might give you back hours of your week.In this episode, Shane explores the nine levels of delegation developed by the late Tim Brighouse, a renowned British educationalist. This framework provides a clear spectrum from essentially no delegation to complete handover of responsibility.Key Insights:Most leaders default to lower levels of delegation due to habits, politeness, or control preferencesClarity is crucial - most delegation problems stem from unclear expectationsMatch your delegation approach to both the task complexity and the person's experienceCultural differences significantly impact how delegation is received and should be consideredProgressive delegation can develop team members' skills and confidence over timeThe same person might handle different tasks at different delegation levels depending on contextChallenge:Try being explicitly clear about your delegation level in at least three conversations next week. Use the framework and see what happens when you're transparent about expectations.Episode PartnerThe International Curriculum Association: Learn moreThank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on LinkedIn and Bluesky. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com.About the hostShane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative and hosts the chart-topping school leadership podcast, Education Leaders. Passionate about empowering educators, he is currently co-authoring 'Change Starts Here.' As a CollectivEd Fellow, Teacher Development Trust Associate, and TEDx speaker, Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special bonus episode, Shane Leaning and co-host Chris Scorer introduce the new Education Leaders community platform and discuss what makes a great educational community. The conversation explores the challenges of navigating online spaces for both educators and students, finding balance in a digitally saturated world, and creating meaningful connections among education professionals globally.Episode Highlights:Introduction to the Education Leaders Live community platform, hosted on EducationScapeHow the platform serves as a space for leadership discussions, peer coaching, and resource sharingThe importance of creating both online and offline spaces where meaningful connection can happenPerspectives on the challenges of digital saturation for today's studentsInsights on balancing productivity with necessary downtime for both educators and studentsWhat makes a truly effective educational community - including trust, authentic engagement, and psychological safetyResources Mentioned:Education Leaders Community: educationleaders.liveEducationScape platform and appNetflix series "Adolescents"The Anxious Generation by Jonathan HaidtSchools Week and FE Week (EducationScape publications)Festival of Education (UK)"Limitless" program (device-free experiences for students)A Hair, Brain and Tortoise Mind by Guy ClaxtonJoin the community at educationleaders.live to participate in future live sessions, access exclusive resources, and connect with education leaders worldwide. Education Leaders Live sessions happen every two weeks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shane welcomes globally renowned educator Ross McGill, known worldwide as Teacher Toolkit. Ross shares his groundbreaking approach to feedback and assessment, challenging traditional marking practices and offering practical alternatives that can transform how schools approach feedback while reducing teacher workload.Ross introduces a comprehensive framework of nine different feedback approaches (feedback, feed up, feed forward × written, verbal, nonverbal) that enriches assessment practices beyond simply marking books. He shows that what matters most is whether students trust the feedback they receive and know how to act on it, not just what form the feedback takes.You can find the full video of this conversation inside the Education Leaders Community.Links MentionedTeacher Toolkit websiteThe Teacher Toolkit Guide to Feedback (Ross's latest book)Verbal Feedback Research Project (UCL research mentioned)Episode PartnersThe International Curriculum Association's Global.Learn.Connect Netherlands: Learn moreThe University of Warwick's International Programmes | Learn more at warwick.ac.ukThank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on LinkedIn and Bluesky. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com.About the hostShane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative and hosts the chat-topping school leadership podcast, Education Leaders. Previously, he worked as Regional Head of Teaching Development for Nord Anglia Education. Passionate about empowering educators, he is currently co-authoring 'Change Starts Here.' As a CollectivEd Fellow, Teacher Development Trust Associate, and TEDx speaker, Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Grades give us comfort and numbers feel concrete. But what if our obsession with quantifying learning is actually getting in the way of understanding it? Today, we're rethinking assessment.Shane Leaning speaks with Amarbeer Singh Gill and Jennifer Curran from Ambition Institute about assessment in education. The conversation challenges our reliance on grades and numbers, exploring the limitations of traditional assessment methods and offering insights into more meaningful approaches to understanding student learning.Key Topics DiscussedThe difference between attainment and progress, and why they require different assessment approachesWhy grades can be misleading without shared understanding of their meaningThe false sense of security that numerical scores can provideThe importance of ongoing formative assessment in the classroomFinding the right balance between measuring learning and facilitating itHow school leaders can evaluate and improve their assessment practicesGuest LinksAmarbeer Singh Gill (Singh): @SinghAmarbeerGJennifer Curran (Jen): @jennimc_dResourcesProfessor Becky Allen's blog on progress Daisy Christodoulou's book "Making Good Progress"Article by Singh and Jen on assessmentEpisode PartnersThe International Curriculum Association's Global.Learn.Connect Netherlands: Learn moreThe University of Warwick's International Programmes | Learn more at warwick.ac.ukThank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on LinkedIn and Bluesky. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this final episode of our organisational change series, Shane explores the often overlooked aspect of change management - sustainability. Drawing from the Work Collaborative model for organisational change and his upcoming book "Change Starts Here," he explains why creating sustainable change is about more than just maintaining a specific initiative - it's about building a culture where change becomes part of your school's DNA.Key Points:Change is continuous, not finite: The end of one change initiative should prepare your organisation for future transformationBuilding change muscles: Each change strengthens your capacity for future changeHonest reflection matters: Use the completion of change initiatives to reflect on what worked, what didn't, and what you'll do differently next timeThe human element is critical: People's connection to the change process determines its longevityNavigating the hurricane: How to stay on course with your change initiatives despite inevitable distractionsFailure as part of the process: Normalising failure and creating a culture of experimentation supports sustainable changeEmbedding change in routines: Creating habits, review cycles, and support structures that make change "virtually invisible"Links Mentioned:Change Series Podcast - Filter by "Work Collaborative episodes" to follow the full change seriesEpisode with Sharath Jeevan on inflection moments - Discussing "asteroids and starships" in organisational changeEpisode PartnersThe International Curriculum Association's Global.Learn.Connect Netherlands: Learn moreThe University of Warwick's International Programmes | Learn more at warwick.ac.ukThank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on LinkedIn and Bluesky. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com.About the hostShane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports schools globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative and hosts the chat-topping school leadership podcast, Education Leaders. Previously, he worked as Regional Head of Teaching Development for Nord Anglia Education. He is currently co-authoring 'Change Starts Here.' Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ryan Parke (The Men's Coach) shares his personal experience with the suicide of a friend and explores the complexities of male mental health. He discusses the common belief that men don't talk about their feelings, which he challenges. Ryan and I particularly delve into the role of testosterone in men's health, debunking myths about its effects and emphasising the importance of lifestyle factors such as sleep, diet, exercise, and sobriety in maintaining healthy testosterone levels. He provides practical advice for improving men's health and wellbeing, ultimately advocating for a more nuanced understanding of male mental health issues.TakeawaysMen's mental health is often misunderstood; communication is not the only solution.Testosterone plays a crucial role in both physical and mental health.Lifestyle changes can significantly impact testosterone levels:Sleep is vital for testosterone production and overall health.Diet, particularly fat intake, affects testosterone levels.Regular exercise is more effective than antidepressants for mental health.Vitamin D is essential for testosterone production.Alcohol consumption can drastically lower testosterone levels.Understanding testosterone can motivate young men to prioritise their health.Resources Mentioned:The Men's Coach (Ryan's website) - themenscoach.co.ukOLLIE FoundationOver 1200 studies on male mental healthEpisode PartnersThe International Curriculum Association's Global.Learn.Connect Netherlands: Learn moreThe University of Warwick's International Programmes | Learn more at warwick.ac.ukThank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on LinkedIn and Bluesky. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com.About the hostShane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative and hosts the chat-topping school leadership podcast, Education Leaders. Previously, he worked as Regional Head of Teaching Development for Nord Anglia Education. Passionate about empowering educators, he is currently co-authoring 'Change Starts Here.' As a CollectivEd Fellow, Teacher Development Trust Associate, and TEDx speaker, Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"Plans are worthless, but planning is everything" - Eisenhower's wisdom applies perfectly to school change. In this episode of the organizational change series, Shane explores the crucial delivery phase where planning meets reality.Key Points:The delivery stage comes after six previous stages in the change processWhy the model is front-loaded with preparation rather than implementationHow to choose the most appropriate option for your communityUnderstanding and acknowledging the consequences of changeThe importance of clear accountability in successful deliveryWhy buy-in should already be established before the delivery phaseResources Mentioned:Double Diamond ModelThe Fearless Organization by Amy EdmondsonRight Kind of Wrong by Amy EdmondsonJohn Kotter's Eight Step ProcessEducation Endowment Foundation Implementation GuideRelated Episodes:Previous episodes in the Change SeriesEpisode PartnersThe University of Warwick's International Programmes | Learn more at warwick.ac.ukThe International Curriculum Association's Global.Learn.Connect Netherlands: Learn moreThank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on LinkedIn and Bluesky. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com.About the hostShane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative and hosts the chat-topping school leadership podcast, Education Leaders. Previously, he worked as Regional Head of Teaching Development for Nord Anglia Education. Passionate about empowering educators, he is currently co-authoring 'Change Starts Here.' As a CollectivEd Fellow, Teacher Development Trust Associate, and TEDx speaker, Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This conversation explores the role of teacher educators, their unique challenges, and the dynamics of career transitions within the education sector. Dr. Ciara O' Donnell discusses the identity transformation that occurs during secondment, the impact of educational policies on teacher retention, and the skills required to effectively educate teachers. Our discussion highlights the importance of professional learning and the privilege of working with fellow educators to drive meaningful change in the education system.TakeawaysTeacher educators are a diverse and distinct group within the profession.Career dynamics and teacher life phases influence decisions to move into teacher education.Secondment can lead to identity transformation and disconnection from previous roles.Policies surrounding secondment can impact teacher retention negatively.Teacher educators often face challenges in navigating their roles and responsibilities.Effective teacher education requires understanding adult learning principles.Teacher educators play a vital role in bridging policy and practice.The role of a teacher educator is both a privilege and a challenge.Episode PartnersThe University of Warwick's International Programmes | Learn more at warwick.ac.ukThe International Curriculum Association's Global.Learn.Connect Netherlands: Learn moreThank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on LinkedIn and Bluesky. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com.About the hostShane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative and hosts the chat-topping school leadership podcast, Education Leaders. Previously, he worked as Regional Head of Teaching Development for Nord Anglia Education. Passionate about empowering educators, he is currently co-authoring 'Change Starts Here.' As a CollectivEd Fellow, Teacher Development Trust Associate, and TEDx speaker, Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shane Leaning explores the delicate balance of learning enough to implement change without falling into analysis paralysis. He emphasises the importance of identifying knowledge gaps, questioning assumptions, and leveraging both internal and external expertise.The conversation also highlights the significance of assessing confidence in delivering change and knowing when to take action. Shane provides practical strategies for incremental learning and planning a change journey effectively.TakeawaysKnowing when you've learned enough to move forward with change can be tricky.Learning is not just about acquiring new skills; it's about questioning what we think we know.Identifying gaps in knowledge is crucial for effective change management.Incremental progress is more manageable than trying to become an expert overnight.Look beyond your usual circle for expertise and insights.Confidence in delivering change often signals underlying issues that need addressing.Learning can't just be front-loaded; it continues throughout the change process.Planning a change journey requires knowing the destination, waypoints, obstacles, and resources.Episode PartnersThe University of Warwick's International Programmes | Learn more at warwick.ac.ukThe International Curriculum Association's Global.Learn.Connect Netherlands: Learn moreThank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on LinkedIn and Bluesky. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com.About the hostShane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative and hosts the chat-topping school leadership podcast, Global Ed Leaders. Previously, he worked as Regional Head of Teaching Development for Nord Anglia Education. Passionate about empowering educators, he is currently co-authoring 'Change Starts Here.' As a CollectivEd Fellow, Teacher Development Trust Associate, and TEDx speaker, Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com.aHanIymP5cxBTuRPBLGt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we dive deep into school culture with Joel Abel, author of Teacher First Management. Joel shares practical insights on how to build and maintain intentional school culture, introducing his culture feedback loop model that connects results, actions, and beliefs. We explore why simply mandating actions isn't enough and how to create experiences that genuinely shift teacher beliefs and behaviors.Key Topics Covered:Why culture happens whether you plan it or notThe culture feedback loop modelHow beliefs drive actions in school settingsLeveraging diversity in international schoolsSupporting different teacher motivationsMoving beyond student-centered to teacher-first managementCreating sustainable cultural changeResources Mentioned:Teacher First Management - Joel's bookThe Culture Map by Erin MeyerEpisode PartnersThe University of Warwick's International Programmes | Learn more at warwick.ac.ukThe International Curriculum Association | Learn more at internationalcurriculum.com.Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on LinkedIn and Bluesky. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com.About the hostShane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative and hosts the chat-topping school leadership podcast, Global Ed Leaders. Previously, he worked as Regional Head of Teaching Development for Nord Anglia Education. Passionate about empowering educators, he is currently co-authoring 'Change Starts Here.' As a CollectivEd Fellow, Teacher Development Trust Associate, and TEDx speaker, Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Shane Leaning explores five powerful strategies for educational leaders to break out of their professional bubbles and gain fresh perspectives. Recording from London during a week of professional connections, Shane shares insights on how to enrich your practice by looking beyond school walls.Key Points:Why staying within our professional bubbles can lead to stale thinkingThe difference between "switching off" and "switching on differently"Five strategies to gain fresh perspectives and enrich your practiceHow to leverage both digital and in-person communitiesThe value of structured learning environmentsEpisode PartnersThe University of Warwick's International Programmes | Learn more at warwick.ac.ukThe International Curriculum Association | Learn more at internationalcurriculum.com.Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on LinkedIn and Bluesky. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com.About the hostShane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative and hosts the chat-topping school leadership podcast, Global Ed Leaders. Previously, he worked as Regional Head of Teaching Development for Nord Anglia Education. Passionate about empowering educators, he is currently co-authoring 'Change Starts Here.' As a CollectivEd Fellow, Teacher Development Trust Associate, and TEDx speaker, Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When some families see tutoring as non-negotiable and others as a last resort, how should international schools approach this complex topic? Sarah Capewell (founder of Aster Academy) and Arthur Moore (Professional Tutor of the Year 2024) unpack the challenges and opportunities around tutoring in international education.Key Discussion Points:Understanding tutoring as part of the broader educational landscapeCommon misconceptions about tutoring among teachers and school leadersThe role of cultural differences in tutoring expectationsBuilding effective school-tutor relationshipsNavigating communication between schools, parents, and tutorsThe current state of tutoring regulation and quality assuranceKey Takeaways:Tutoring should be viewed as an additional layer of support rather than a threat to classroom teachingClear school policies on tutoring can help teachers navigate parent requests and student needsCommunication between schools and tutors is crucial for student successCultural context significantly influences tutoring expectations and approachesDue diligence is important when selecting tutors due to limited industry regulationResources Mentioned:Aster Academy - Sarah Capewell's international tutoring businessT and Teaching Podcast - Arthur Moore's education podcastTutoring Tips Podcast - Arthur's tutoring-focused podcastEpisode PartnersThe International Curriculum Association | Learn more at internationalcurriculum.com.The University of Warwick's International Programmes | Learn more at warwick.ac.ukThank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com.About the hostShane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative and hosts the chat-topping school leadership podcast, Global Ed Leaders. Previously, he worked as Regional Head of Teaching Development for Nord Anglia Education. Passionate about empowering educators, he is currently co-authoring 'Change Starts Here.' As a CollectivEd Fellow, Teacher Development Trust Associate, and TEDx speaker, Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Think you've got that next big project all sorted in your head? Hold that thought because today we're going to explore why sometimes those best answers often come when we dare to dream just a little bit bigger.In this episode of the organisational change series, Shane explores the 'develop' stage of the change process, where schools need to think big before narrowing down solutions. Through real examples and practical frameworks, learn why temporarily suspending practical constraints might lead to better solutions for your school.Key TopicsWhy schools need to think big before getting practicalThe power of "no limits" conversations in leadership teamsThe four Rs of de-implementation: reduce, remove, re-engineer, replaceHow one international school transformed their approach to student wellbeing through expansive thinkingThe crucial balance: adding new initiatives whilst taking things awayResources MentionedMaking Room for Impact by John Hattie, Dylan Wiliam, and Aaron HamiltonPrevious episode with Aaron Hamilton on De-implementationEpisode PartnersThe International Curriculum Association | Learn more at internationalcurriculum.com.The University of Warwick's International Programmes | Learn more at warwick.ac.ukThank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com.About the hostShane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative and hosts the chat-topping school leadership podcast, Global Ed Leaders. Previously, he worked as Regional Head of Teaching Development for Nord Anglia Education. Passionate about empowering educators, he is currently co-authoring 'Change Starts Here.' As a CollectivEd Fellow, Teacher Development Trust Associate, and TEDx speaker, Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, organisational coach Shane Leaning sits down with AI in education expert Dan Fitzpatrick to explore practical ways school leaders can leverage AI tools to enhance their productivity and effectiveness. As we start the new year, this discussion offers timely insights for leaders looking to streamline their workload.Key Topics:- Recent updates in AI tools and platforms- Practical tools for reducing leadership workload- Using AI to enhance learning and professional developmentFeatured Tool: Google NotebookLM- Upload and analyse multiple source documents- Creates focused analysis without pulling from broader internet knowledge- Generates audio summaries in podcast format- New interactive feature allowing real-time engagement with audio content- Perfect for processing new policies, research papers, and educational guidanceLeadership Applications:- Creating personalised AI coaching tools- Building specialised knowledge bases for different areas (leadership, strategy, policy)- Developing internal chatbots for staff resources- Using ChatGPT's new "Projects" feature for organised, ongoing workPractical Tips:- Start with simple tasks and experiment with capabilities- Create sharing groups to exchange AI use cases with other leaders- Consider using AI for processing and synthesising professional reading- Look for ways to make professional development more accessibleResources Mentioned:- Google NotebookLM- ChatGPT (with new Projects feature)- Claude- ElevenLabs (voice AI tool)Connect with Dan:- AI in Education Daily podcast- Book: "Infinite Education" (releasing January 6th, 2024)Episode PartnersThe University of Warwick's International Programmes | Learn more at warwick.ac.ukThe International Curriculum Association | Learn more at internationalcurriculum.com.Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special Christmas Eve episode, host Shane Leaning reflects on a remarkable year of Global Ed Leaders, highlighting some of the most impactful conversations and milestones from 2024.Key Episode Highlights:Notable Conversations from 2024:Rachel Lofthouse on coaching in teacher development (Episodes 37 & 38)Arrann Hamilton discussing de-implementation with insights from John Hattie and Dylan WilliamJosh Goodrich on the power of rehearsal in professional development (Episode 54)Jose Medina exploring linguistic oppression in international schoolsSarah Kupke (ECIS) on teacher retention strategiesHaili Hughes addressing the teacher retention crisisIan Timbrell on LGBTQ+ inclusionClaire Peet discussing women in leadershipPodcast Achievements:Approaching Episode 100 in under two yearsReached #1 in podcast charts globallyConsistently ranked in top 10% of global podcastsExpanded listener base across multiple countriesComing in 2025:New co-host Chris Scorer for Global Ed Leaders LIVEUpcoming topics include:AI in educationFlexible working for teachersValues in leadershipMental healthParent community engagementEpisode PartnersThe University of Warwick's International Programmes | Learn more at warwick.ac.ukThe International Curriculum Association | Learn more at internationalcurriculum.com.Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com.About the hostShane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative and hosts the chat-topping school leadership podcast, Global Ed Leaders. Previously, he worked as Regional Head of Teaching Development for Nord Anglia Education. Passionate about empowering educators, he is currently co-authoring 'Change Starts Here.' As a CollectivEd Fellow, Teacher Development Trust Associate, and TEDx speaker, Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the organisational change series, Shane Leaning explores why alignment is crucial for successful change implementation in schools. Through practical examples and actionable strategies, he demonstrates how misalignment can derail even the most well-researched initiatives.Key InsightsMany school initiatives fail not because of the change itself, but due to lack of alignment among stakeholdersTrue alignment goes beyond surface-level agreement to create shared understandingDifferent stakeholder groups may interpret the same concept (e.g., "wellbeing") in vastly different waysEpisode PartnersThe University of Warwick's International Programmes | Learn more at warwick.ac.ukThe International Curriculum Association | Learn more at internationalcurriculum.com.Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com.About the hostShane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative and hosts the chat-topping school leadership podcast, Global Ed Leaders. Previously, he worked as Regional Head of Teaching Development for Nord Anglia Education. Passionate about empowering educators, he is currently co-authoring 'Change Starts Here.' As a CollectivEd Fellow, Teacher Development Trust Associate, and TEDx speaker, Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Claire Peet discusses the challenges women leaders face in international education. We explore how common leadership terms like 'imposter syndrome' and 'perfectionism' have become problematic labels that can be used against women leaders. Claire shares powerful insights about the double bind women face - being criticised both for adopting and rejecting traditional leadership traits.We discuss the different ways men and women process feedback, illustrated through her compelling 'A-game' story about how a simple comment can trigger very different responses based on gender. Claire reminds us of the importance of creating conditions where women leaders can bring their authentic selves to work, and the need for both male and female leaders to play active roles in changing leadership culture.LinksClaire on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-peet/Women In Leadership Newsletter: https://www.pdacademia.com/women-in-leadership/This episode is supported by the International Curriculum Association.Learn more at internationalcurriculum.com.Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on

I normally sit down for deep one-on-ones with education leaders, but this episode takes a different approach. At NESSIC's inaugural leadership conference, I captured something special - the birth of China's newest school network.Moving through the conference rooms with my microphone, I spoke with 20 school leaders about what drives them to build community beyond their campus walls. From heads of isolated regional schools to leaders of China's biggest international bilingual schools, these conversations reveal a sector ready to shift from competition to collaboration.If you're curious about how post-COVID China's international education community is evolving, this episode is for you.Linkshttps://nessic.org/This episode is supported by the International Curriculum Association.Learn more at internationalcurriculum.com.Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on

Grainne O'Reilly chats with Shane about the challenges and rewards of leading a startup school. She talks about the importance of embracing the unknowns and being open to asking for help. Grainne highlights the magic of a startup and the sense of ownership and excitement that every team member should feel. She also discusses the pattern of a post-Christmas dip in energy and offers advice on how leaders can support their teams during this time.Grainne encourages leaders to take care of themselves and find activities or hobbies that bring them joy. She also emphasises the importance of finding trusted mentors and confidants to lean on for support.Sound Bites"The best leaders are always open to other people's ideas and asking for help.""Harnessing the magic and giving everyone permission to take ownership is key to success.""Under promise and over deliver every single time."LinksFind Grainne on LinkedInGrainne's latest book, Starting Your International SchoolThis episode is supported by the International Curriculum Association.Learn more at internationalcurriculum.com.Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on

In this episode, Shane Leaning discusses the complexities of addressing challenges in educational settings. He talks through the importance of defining challenges clearly, reframing problems as opportunities, and balancing emotional responses with factual data. Shane shares insights on how to prioritise challenges effectively and encourages leaders to focus on the root causes of issues rather than getting overwhelmed by multiple initiatives. This episode highlights the need for courage in decision-making and the significance of collaboration among staff.TakeawaysWhen trying to solve everything at once, we make our biggest mistake.Defining challenges is crucial for effective change.Reframing problems can lead to new opportunities.Balancing emotions and facts is essential in schools.Choosing the right challenge can create a ripple effect.Understanding the root cause is key to solving issues.Real change requires courage and specificity.Collaboration among staff can transform school culture.Data analysis can reveal deeper issues in schools.Taking time to define challenges can lead to better solutions.LinksThe Work Collaborative Model for Organisational ChangeThis episode is supported by the International Curriculum Association.Learn more at internationalcurriculum.com.Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on

In this conversation, Paul Ainsworth discusses his book 'No Silver Bullets 2.0: The Heart and Soul of School Improvement'. We explore the concept of silver bullets in education and the need for a more nuanced approach to school improvement. Paul shares his framework for school improvement, which includes evaluating with honesty, planning with empathy, executing with confidence, and reviewing with humility. We discuss the importance of building relationships, developing confidence in teachers, and finding consistency within schools. Paul reminded me of the need for sustainable change and the power of small steps done consistently.LinksPaul's websitePaul's latest book, 'No Silver Bullets 2.0: Heart and Soul of School Improvement'This episode is supported by the International Curriculum Association.Learn more at internationalcurriculum.com.Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on

This week, I explore the "Connection" phase of organisational change.Episode HighlightsThe Change Series: Discover why connection is essential before diving into change.Understanding Challenges: Learn how building connections helps validate perceived challenges and explore them deeply.Building Trust and Readiness: Authentic connections foster psychological safety and organisational readiness—key ingredients for successful change.Avoiding Pitfalls: Early connection helps prevent biases and encourages open dialogue, setting a solid foundation.Practical Steps: Engage with your community—teachers, parents, and students—before implementing change.Remember, connection and discovery are intertwined. If you feel connection is lacking, pause and focus on building that foundation first. This ensures sustainable and impactful change.This episode is supported by the International Curriculum Association. Click here to Register for The International Curriculum Conference 2024Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on

Chris Scorer and Shane Leaning explore how schools can create a data landscape that aligns with their diverse objectives, especially in international schools. We discuss the reluctance of data leads to embrace full transparency due to regulatory concerns, the educational journey parents and teachers must undertake to understand data, and practical strategies for integrating data into daily teaching.One striking point of our conversation was the tension between teacher intuition and data-driven decision-making. Chris eloquently argued that data should serve as a supportive tool for teachers rather than a rigid directive. He shared practical strategies for overcoming teacher resistance to data, emphasizing the importance of creating safe spaces for teachers to engage with and explore data without the fear of making mistakes.LinksFryer, R.G., Jr (2017), The Production of Human Capital in Developed Countries: Evidence From 196 Randomized Field ExperimentsMunby, S, (2019), Imperfect Leadershiphttps://teachmiddleeastmag.com/democratise-your-data/This episode is supported by the International Curriculum Association. Click here to Register for The International Curriculum Conference 2024Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on

In part 3 of his series on organisational change, Shane discusses the importance of the discovery phase in organisational change in schools. He emphasises the need to break the cycle of repeatedly addressing the same problems by exploring multiple perspectives and challenging assumptions. The conversation highlights the significance of building trust and connection within teams to facilitate open dialogue and innovative solutions. Leaning also stresses the value of diverse thinking in improving outcomes and the necessity of thorough discovery to avoid poor decision-making.Takeaways· The first answer is rarely the best one.· Discovery is about exploring options, not making decisions.· Building trust enables free expression of thoughts.· Asking 'What else?' helps uncover deeper challenges.· Urgency can push change forward.· Unfreezing our thinking is essential for change.· Groupthink can lead to poor quality decisions.· Diverse teams bring improved accuracy and innovation.· Challenging assumptions is crucial in the discovery phase.· Connection is foundational before moving into discovery.Click here to see the double diamond model.This episode is supported by the International Curriculum Association. Click here to Register for The International Curriculum Conference 2024 Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on X (@leaningshane), and LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com. About the hostShane Leaning is an independent organisational coach based in Shanghai, collaborating with international schools and agencies globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative, a community dedicated to inside-out change in education, and hosts the chart-topping podcast, Global Ed Leaders. Previously, Shane was the Regional Head of Teacher Development for Nord Anglia Education's China bilingual schools, overseeing professional development across 11 schools. He holds an Executive Master's in International Education from King's College London and is a certified organisational development coach. Passionate about creating agency in schools and empowering leaders, Shane is co-authoring 'Change Starts Here,' due for release in Spring 2025. He is a CollectiveEd Fellow, an Associate of the Teacher Development Trust in the UK, and a TEDx speaker. Living internationally since 2012, with extensive experience in China and Asia, Shane is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

GUEST EPISODEThis is an interview from the EduPulse podcast. Here's the original podcast description:In this episode we are joined by Shane Leaning who is a podcast host, educator and soon-to-be author. Shane (@leaningshane) lives and works in Shanghai, China and we recorded this episode at 4am GMT!Join in the conversation on Twitter (we don't officially recognise the rebranding!) where you'll find us on:⁠⁠@EduPulseCo⁠⁠⁠⁠@MrAdamKohlbeck⁠⁠⁠⁠@MrChrisPassey⁠⁠⁠⁠EduPulse⁠⁠ is a brand new think-tank, podcast, journal and nuance-advocating platform. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ian Timbrell and Shane Leaning talk about range of topics related to LGBTQ+ inclusion in schools, including the challenges faced by school leaders, the importance of representation in literature, and strategies for handling difficult conversations. The discussion highlights the need for inclusive practices and the impact of local representation on students' identities and experiences.TakeawaysThe challenges faced by school leaders in addressing LGBTQ+ topics and the importance of understanding the historical and cultural context of these challenges.The significance of representation in literature and the impact of inclusive materials on students' identities and experiences.Strategies for handling difficult conversations related to LGBTQ+ inclusion, including the use of scripts and the importance of standing by the school's values and policies.The impact of local representation on students' understanding of diversity and the need for inclusive role models and events in school curricula.LinksMore Thank Flags and Rainbows: morethanflagsandrainbows.comIan on X/Twitter: @ITimbrellThis episode is supported by the International Curriculum Association. Click here to Register for The International Curriculum Conference 2024 Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on X (@leaningshane), and LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com. About the hostShane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative and hosts the chat-topping school leadership podcast, Global Ed Leaders. Previously, he worked as Regional Head of Teaching Development for Nord Anglia Education. Passionate about empowering educators, he is currently co-authoring 'Change Starts Here.' As a CollectivEd Fellow, Teacher Development Trust Associate, and TEDx speaker, Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part 2 of the Series on Organisational change, Shane discusses the complexities of organisational change in educational settings, focusing on the sponsor's perceived challenge. I talk about the importance of understanding the motivations behind change, the risks involved, and the necessity of community involvement to ensure sustainable change. The conversation highlights the need for sponsors to reflect on their challenges and engage with their communities to create a shared vision for change.Takeaways· The perceived challenge may not be the actual challenge.· Understanding motivations behind change is crucial.· Expectations and awareness shape the change process.· Best and worst case scenarios help frame challenges.· Organizational identity must be preserved during change.· Community involvement is essential for sustainable change.· Top-down approaches to change are often ineffective.· Engagement at critical moments influences change trajectory.· Reflection on past challenges can inform future actions.· Balancing change with core values is vital.This episode is supported by the International Curriculum Association. Click here to Register for The International Curriculum Conference 2024 Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on X (@leaningshane), and LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com. About the hostShane Leaning is an independent organisational coach based in Shanghai, collaborating with international schools and agencies globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative, a community dedicated to inside-out change in education, and hosts the chart-topping podcast, Global Ed Leaders. Previously, Shane was the Regional Head of Teacher Development for Nord Anglia Education's China bilingual schools, overseeing professional development across 11 schools. He holds an Executive Master's in International Education from King's College London and is a certified organisational development coach. Passionate about creating agency in schools and empowering leaders, Shane is co-authoring 'Change Starts Here,' due for release in Spring 2025. He is a CollectiveEd Fellow, an Associate of the Teacher Development Trust in the UK, and a TEDx speaker. Living internationally since 2012, with extensive experience in China and Asia, Shane is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Haili Hughes and Shane Leaning discuss the ongoing crisis in the teaching profession, focusing on the challenges of teacher retention, the impact of toxic leadership, and the need for a supportive culture within schools. They explore the internal and external factors contributing to the crisis, including public perception, accountability, and the importance of psychological safety for teachers. The discussion emphasises the need for educational leaders to create environments that nurture growth and well-being for educators, ultimately benefiting students as well.Takeaways· Teacher retention is a crisis in many countries, including the UK, and is influenced by factors such as erosion of respect for teachers and negative media portrayal.· Toxic leadership is a significant problem in schools and can lead to high levels of stress and burnout among teachers.· Creating a supportive and empowering culture in schools is crucial for retaining teachers and promoting their well-being.· Leaders should prioritise teacher agency and provide opportunities for professional growth and development.· Accountability is important, but high-stakes and performative accountability measures can be counterproductive and erode teacher creativity and self-efficacy.· Building a sense of belonging and community among teachers is essential for creating a positive work environment.LinksPreserving Positivity (Book): amzn.eu/d/cwvo6ekHaili on X/Twitter: x.com/HughesHailiHaili on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-haili-hughes-178479186/This episode is supported by the International Curriculum Association. Click here to Register for The International Curriculum Conference 2024 Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on X (@leaningshane), and LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com. About the hostShane Leaning is an independent organisational coach based in Shanghai, collaborating with international schools and agencies globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative, a community dedicated to inside-out change in education, and hosts the chart-topping podcast, Global Ed Leaders. Previously, Shane was the Regional Head of Teacher Development for Nord Anglia Education's China bilingual schools, overseeing professional development across 11 schools. He holds an Executive Master's in International Education from King's College London and is a certified organisational development coach. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shane introduces a mini-series focused on leading effective community-led change in schools. He presents an open-source change model inspired by Work Collaborative, emphasising the importance of community involvement, trust, and iterative processes. The model is structured around the double diamond framework, which facilitates exploration and problem-solving in organisational change. Shane outlines the eight stages of the model, highlighting the need for alignment among stakeholders and the significance of sustaining change over time.TakeawaysChange is a constant challenge in education.Community involvement is crucial for effective change.Trust and psychological safety are foundational for change.The double diamond model aids in decision-making.Exploration of challenges should include multiple perspectives.Alignment among stakeholders enhances the success of change.Sustaining change requires long-term strategies.Iterative processes allow flexibility in implementation.This episode is supported by the International Curriculum Association. Click here to Register for The International Curriculum Conference 2024 Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on X (@leaningshane), and LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com. About the hostShane Leaning is an independent organisational coach based in Shanghai, collaborating with international schools and agencies globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative, a community dedicated to inside-out change in education, and hosts the chart-topping podcast, Global Ed Leaders. Previously, Shane was the Regional Head of Teacher Development for Nord Anglia Education's China bilingual schools, overseeing professional development across 11 schools. He holds an Executive Master's in International Education from King's College London and is a certified organisational development coach. Passionate about creating agency in schools and empowering leaders, Shane is co-authoring 'Change Starts Here,' due for release in Spring 2025. He is a CollectiveEd Fellow, an Associate of the Teacher Development Trust in the UK, and a TEDx speaker. Living internationally since 2012, with extensive experience in China and Asia, Shane is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sharath Jeevan OBE explores the concept of inflection moments for leaders in education, addressing the challenges and opportunities they present. Sharath emphasizes the importance of navigating inflection moments with a long-term perspective and authenticity, encouraging leaders to embrace wicked problems and engage their teams in the journey. The conversation also delves into the significance of community engagement, the role of technology, and the need for leaders to reflect on their inflection moments. Takeaways - Inflection moments in education require a long-term perspective and a willingness to embrace wicked problems.- Authenticity and vulnerability are key attributes for leaders navigating inflection moments.- Community engagement and the role of technology play a significant role in addressing inflection moments in education.- Reflecting on inflection moments and engaging the team in the journey are essential for educational leaders.- The significance of organizational confidence and the need for leaders to navigate external influences with a clear direction are crucial in addressing inflection moments. LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sharathjeevanWebsite: intrinsic-labs.comThis episode is supported by the International Curriculum Association. Click here to Register for The International Curriculum Conference 2024 Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on X (@leaningshane), and LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com. About the hostShane Leaning is an independent organisational coach based in Shanghai, collaborating with international schools and agencies globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative, a community dedicated to inside-out change in education, and hosts the chart-topping podcast, Global Ed Leaders. Previously, Shane was the Regional Head of Teacher Development for Nord Anglia Education's China bilingual schools, overseeing professional development across 11 schools. He holds an Executive Master's in International Education from King's College London and is a certified organisational development coach. Passionate about creating agency in schools and empowering leaders, Shane is co-authoring 'Change Starts Here,' due for release in Summer 2024. He is a CollectiveEd Fellow, an Associate of the Teacher Development Trust in the UK, and a TEDx speaker. Living internationally since 2012, with extensive experience in China and Asia, Shane is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Teacher capability procedures—words that send shivers down the spine of even the most seasoned school leaders. In this episode, I share practical guidance to make this daunting task more manageable.We explore the recently released non-statutory guidance from the UK's Department for Education for managing underperformance, with insights that can be applied universally.Whether you're dealing with minor underperformance or more serious cases, this episode provides you with tools and frameworks to handle these challenges with fairness, support, and a structured approach. This episode is supported by the International Curriculum Association. Click here to Register For The International Curriculum Conference 2024 Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on X (@leaningshane), and LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com. About the hostShane Leaning is an independent organisational coach based in Shanghai, collaborating with international schools and agencies globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative, a community dedicated to inside-out change in education, and hosts the chart-topping podcast, Global Ed Leaders. Previously, Shane was the Regional Head of Teacher Development for Nord Anglia Education's China bilingual schools, overseeing professional development across 11 schools. He holds an Executive Master's in International Education from King's College London and is a certified organisational development coach. Passionate about creating agency in schools and empowering leaders, Shane is co-authoring 'Change Starts Here,' due for release in Summer 2024. He is a CollectiveEd Fellow, an Associate of the Teacher Development Trust in the UK, and a TEDx speaker. Living internationally since 2012, with extensive experience in China and Asia, Shane is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shane and Aimee explore well-being in schools. Aimee shares her passion for well-being and how it started during her early years in school leadership. They discuss the importance of both feeling good and functioning well in order to achieve well-being. They also explore the distinction between wellness and well-being, with wellness focusing on physical health and well-being encompassing mental and emotional states. Aimee emphasizes the need for a collective understanding of well-being in schools and the importance of individual and collective responsibility. The conversation highlights the need for school leaders to establish a shared vision and purpose for well-being before implementing any initiatives. The conversation focuses on the importance of creating a collective strategic vision and goal to support the well-being of staff in schools. LinkedIn: Aimee PresnallWebsite: www.well-nest.com.auBook 30min Staff Wellbeing ChatInstagram: well_nest_collective_co This episode is supported by the International Curriculum Association. Click here to Register For The International Curriculum Conference 2024 Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on X (@leaningshane), and LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com. About the hostShane Leaning is an independent organisational coach based in Shanghai, collaborating with international schools and agencies globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative, a community dedicated to inside-out change in education, and hosts the chart-topping podcast, Global Ed Leaders. Previously, Shane was the Regional Head of Teacher Development for Nord Anglia Education's China bilingual schools, overseeing professional development across 11 schools. He holds an Executive Master's in International Education from King's College London and is a certified organisational development coach. Passionate about creating agency in schools and empowering leaders, Shane is co-authoring 'Change Starts Here,' due for release in Summer 2024. He is a CollectiveEd Fellow, an Associate of the Teacher Development Trust in the UK, and a TEDx speaker. Living internationally since 2012, with extensive experience in China and Asia, Shane is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

GUEST EPISODEShane Leaning is interviewed by Chris Jordan on The Leading, Language and Literature Podcast. We discuss:1. What made Shane transition from the classroom to consultant in the first place2. Shane's process for making contact with potential school partners3. Shane's go-to texts to inspire and inform him on the job4. The current state of the private education sector in China5. And finally the original intention for Shane's podcast and how that has evolved over time Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is your school's literacy strategy doing more harm than good? In today's episode, educational consultant Chris Scorer joins me at a local British pub to delve deeply into how our traditional approach to literacy might be causing stress and anxiety for students. Chris draws from both professional expertise and personal experience to challenge the orthodoxy of literacy education. This episode is a must-listen for international school leaders who are keen to explore more inclusive ways to support student well-being while also fostering literacy.Chris Scorer, an educational consultant and regular speaker on the international education circuit, shares a transformative and deeply personal perspective on literacy. We discuss how overly narrow definitions of literacy and an unyielding drive towards it can have detrimental effects on students, especially those with dyslexia or other literacy difficulties. Chris suggests a radical rethinking of our literacy strategies, advocating for broader frameworks to access and express knowledge that caters to individual learning needs.Chris's journey from being a proponent of literacy for all to questioning its universal relevance due to his son's struggles with learning to read.How narrow definitions of literacy can cause stress and anxiety among students.The importance of rethinking our approach to literacy to include alternative methods of accessing knowledge.The impact of pushing students toward literacy on their mental health and well-being.The role of school leaders in facilitating a more inclusive environment.Chris's comparison of literacy accommodation to the Disability Discrimination Act and how we can learn from historical shifts in policy.Practical steps for teachers and school leaders to begin implementing a more flexible approach to literacy. This episode is supported by the International Curriculum Association. Click here to Register For The International Curriculum Conference 2024 Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on X (@leaningshane), and LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com. About the hostShane Leaning is an independent organisational coach based in Shanghai, collaborating with international schools and agencies globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative, a community dedicated to inside-out change in education, and hosts the chart-topping podcast, Global Ed Leaders. Previously, Shane was the Regional Head of Teacher Development for Nord Anglia Education's China bilingual schools, overseeing professional development across 11 schools. He holds an Executive Master's in International Education from King's College London and is a certified organisational development coach. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I explore principles that can guide every international school leader. As educators, we are public servants, and it's crucial to reflect on the values that drive our work. Are we truly acting in the best interest of our students?I break down the Seven Principles of Public Life, also known as the Nolan Principles, and challenge you to consider how they apply within your school setting. This episode is supported by the International Curriculum Association. Click here to Register For The International Curriculum Conference 2024 Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on X (@leaningshane), and LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com. About the hostShane Leaning is an independent organisational coach based in Shanghai, collaborating with international schools and agencies globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative, a community dedicated to inside-out change in education, and hosts the chart-topping podcast, Global Ed Leaders. Previously, Shane was the Regional Head of Teacher Development for Nord Anglia Education's China bilingual schools, overseeing professional development across 11 schools. He holds an Executive Master's in International Education from King's College London and is a certified organisational development coach. Passionate about creating agency in schools and empowering leaders, Shane is co-authoring 'Change Starts Here,' due for release in Summer 2024. He is a CollectiveEd Fellow, an Associate of the Teacher Development Trust in the UK, and a TEDx speaker. Living internationally since 2012, with extensive experience in China and Asia, Shane is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ann McPhee discusses leadership in an international context and the importance of cultural understanding and effective induction processes. She highlights the pitfalls of autocratic leadership and the myth of strong leadership, emphasising the importance of empathy, listening, and reflection. McPhee also emphasizes the power of soft leadership and the impact of small interactions and relationships in leadership. Overall, the conversation reveals the core of leadership as working with people and prioritizing their needs. Takeaways· Leadership in an international context requires cultural understanding and effective induction processes.· Autocratic leadership can lead to bullying and ineffective leadership.· Strong leadership is not about being loud or directive, but about empathy, listening, and reflection.· Soft leadership is not weak leadership, but a focus on people and relationships.· Small interactions and relationships are essential in effective leadership.· Putting people first is at the core of leadership. Links Ann McPhee on LinkedInGet Ann and Pam's book, ‘International Schools: Navigating Leadership Culture & Context' This episode is supported by the International Curriculum Association. Learn more here. Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on X (@leaningshane), and LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com. About the hostShane Leaning is an independent organisational coach based in Shanghai, collaborating with international schools and agencies globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative, a community dedicated to inside-out change in education, and hosts the chart-topping podcast, Global Ed Leaders. Previously, Shane was the Regional Head of Teacher Development for Nord Anglia Education's China bilingual schools, overseeing professional development across 11 schools. He holds an Executive Master's in International Education from King's College London and is a certified organisational development coach. Passionate about creating agency in schools and empowering leaders, Shane is co-authoring 'Change Starts Here,' due for release in Summer 2024. He is a CollectiveEd Fellow, an Associate of the Teacher Development Trust in the UK, and a TEDx speaker. Living internationally since 2012, with extensive experience in China and Asia, Shane is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here's a refreshing 5-minute meditation, custom-made for international education leaders by Adele Burdon-Bailey, a psychotherapist from Priory, one of the UK's leading independent providers of mental health care and adult social care.It's short, it's calming, and it can be practiced whenever you need a moment of peace and reflection.Due to previous popularity, this episode is a repeat from last Summer. This episode is supported by the International Curriculum Association. Learn more here. Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on X (@leaningshane), and LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I talk with Alex Seigel on how educational trips are a valuable part of a school's curriculum, providing students with transformative experiences and fostering intercultural understanding. And a great trip includes a balance of key sites and unique experiences, tailored to the interests and educational goals of the students. Adventure leaders and local experts play a crucial role in organising and guiding the trips, providing insights into the destinations and facilitating connections with local communities. These trips can have a long-lasting impact on students' lives and careers, and it is important for schools to assess and measure this impact. Overall, educational trips offer a powerful way to enhance learning and broaden students' perspectives. TakeawaysA great educational trip includes a balance of key sites and unique experiences.Adventure leaders and local experts play a crucial role in organizing and guiding the trips.Educational trips foster intercultural understanding and can have a long-lasting impact on students' lives and careers.It is important for schools to assess and measure the impact of educational trips.Links Alex Seigel on LinkedInThe Learning Adventure This episode is supported by the International Curriculum Association. Learn more here. Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on X (@leaningshane), and LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com. About the hostShane Leaning is an independent organisational coach based in Shanghai, collaborating with international schools and agencies globally. He co-founded Work Collaborative, a community dedicated to inside-out change in education, and hosts the chart-topping podcast, Global Ed Leaders. Previously, Shane was the Regional Head of Teacher Development for Nord Anglia Education's China bilingual schools, overseeing professional development across 11 schools. He holds an Executive Master's in International Education from King's College London and is a certified organisational development coach. Passionate about creating agency in schools and empowering leaders, Shane is co-authoring 'Change Starts Here,' due for release in Summer 2024. He is a CollectiveEd Fellow, an Associate of the Teacher Development Trust in the UK, and a TEDx speaker. Living internationally since 2012, with extensive experience in China and Asia, Shane is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.