This conversation is with Kevin Holland who has journeyed with me to help schools use coaching to enhance student agency in schools. But more recently we have explored how we can use this to support staff development and school improvement.
People misunderstand coaching, mentoring and training. I worry when they put instructional in front of it. Coaching should never take the agency away from the coachee. It is not advisory. It is questioning and clarifying. It's non- hierachical. It's non judgemental.
In the podcast we will explore how Kunskapsskolan has consistently used this approach with students to develop self regulation so they can build and meet their goals, dreams and aspirations. And how that has inspired many schools here in the UK
Secondly, we will share how, by using the Unleashing Greatness Framework developed around the work of Professor David Hopkins and the International Centre at the University of Bolton, we bring coaching to the centre of school improvement and perfromance management. Using the Showers/ Joyce model, research has shown that adding coaching to CPD signficantly alters its impact and consistent application.
Finally schools have been looking how they can bring back colleageus from the disruption of the last 18 months with renewed purpose that recognises the very varied impact and the range of personal goals they will want to address irrespective of the institutional goals. How do we create a positive mindset for what remains a challenging future.
We know from our work with students, that it is by making every child feel they are listened to and valued, that they achieve more. When we allow the school to adapt to the individual student choices rather than getting the student to fit into a school system regardless - in other words when we personalise learning - students become more engaged and own their learning . Why should this not apply to all the adults in the school as well. Change is uncomfortable but our response to it is uniquely personal. Coaching is the best way to unlock this.
If you want to find out more please contact us. j.baumber@bolton.ac.uk or k.holland @bolton.ac.uk
Referred to in the podcast:
Unleashing Greatness: https://www.acel.org.au/ACEL/ACELWEB/Publications/AEL/2020/3/Lead_Article_1.aspx
Showers/Joyce Coaching Model: https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED588635.pdf
Kunskapsskolan: www.kunskapsskolan.com
