Shows
Educator’s CornerUnderstanding the World’s Most Diverse Education System | In Conversation with Avyakt SethiWith over 240 million students and 1.5 million schools, India’s education system is arguably the most diverse globally. Shaped by its population, governance, culture, and openness to external models, it is an example of pluralism in action. So what does learning look like across such a vast landscape?In this episode, Kai begins an exploration of the Indian education system with fellow podcaster Avyakt Sethi, the creator of Schoolcast. Drawing on conversations from Indian schools and their communities, Avyakt sheds light on the academic rigour of India’s Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and the drive towards holi...
2025-11-1327 minEducator’s CornerWhy 50% of Secondary School Students Have Stopped Trying and How We Can Fix It | With Jenny AndersonWhy are so many young people disengaged from learning — and what can parents and educators do about it?That’s the question that journalist Jenny Anderson seeks to answer in her book, The Disengaged Teen. Alongside co-author Rebecca Winthrop, Jenny unpicks why so many teenagers have switched off from school and presents evidence-based strategies to help reignite their love of learning. In this episode, Jenny joins Kai to share:What ‘student engagement’ really means beyond grades or behaviourThe four modes of student engagement and how to identify them
2025-10-0950 minEducator’s CornerMental Health in Schools: How Can Leaders Support Student and Staff Wellbeing?Stress, staffing pressures, and rising student needs mean schools can’t leave mental health to chance. But how do you move from creating policies to embedding awareness across a whole team?In this episode, Kai talks to George Peterkin, a qualified teacher, accredited therapeutic counsellor, and founder of Mind Your Health. George has been delivering Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training at British School Muscat, equipping staff with practical tools, language, and culture-shaping habits that make mental health awareness part of our everyday.They discuss:What Mental Health First Aid is...
2025-09-2532 minEducator’s CornerHow did Minerva Virtual Academy become the UK's fastest growing school? In conversation with Hugh VineyWith 1.28 million students persistently absent from school in the UK, it’s clear that the traditional classroom isn’t the right fit for everyone. But what does that mean for the future of education? For many families, the answer lies online. In this episode, Kai talks to Hugh Viney, founder and CEO of Minerva Virtual Academy. Starting with just four students in 2021, Minerva now supports over 1,200 learners worldwide. It has become the UK’s fastest-growing school and a shining example of how online learning can help meet the diverse needs of today’s students. They discuss:
2025-09-1139 minEducator’s CornerIs Kindness the Key to Effective School Leadership? In Conversation with Joanna PovallWhat are the qualities of a good school leader? Many people point to traits like confidence, decisiveness and resilience. But could kindness be the real key to bringing the best out in your team?In this episode, Kai talks to Joanna Povall, Principal of Wales International School in Abu Dhabi, to explore why kindness is the sharpest tool a leader has. They discuss:What it means to lead with kindnessWhy being kind isn’t a weakness, but a strengthHow compassion helps leaders navigate challenges and bring the best out of their staffJoanna’s CHASE frame...
2025-08-2846 min
The Leadership Passport PodcastKai VacherIn this episode of the Leadership Passport podcast, host Kevin Fullbrook engages with Kai Vacher, a seasoned educational leader with extensive experience in both the UK and international education sectors. Kai shares his personal journey, including overcoming challenges and the pivotal moments that shaped his leadership style. He emphasizes the importance of community, flexibility, and the power of belief in fostering a positive educational environment. The conversation also delves into the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, the significance of listening and coaching in leadership, and the lessons learned from mistakes. Kai offers valuable advice for aspiring leaders, highlighting...
2025-08-0536 min
Educator’s CornerSaving the Ocean, the Planet and Our Future (with Jeroen van de Waal)What does it mean to find your ikigai, and why might that be the key to saving our planet?In this episode, Kai talks to Jeroen van de Waal, founder of OrcaNation, the BlueBeat Group and The Reef Company. Following a lively keynote session at British School Muscat, Jeroen reflects on his journey from corporate CEO to ocean conservationist and how he's on a mission to reconnect 8 billion people with nature.In this episode, Kai and Jeroen discuss:01:49 Jeroen’s mission (and how it started)05:30 Unlocking a different way of thinking07:14 A...
2025-07-0236 min
Educator’s CornerHeading Towards Hybrid? With Mark SteedCould hybrid schools be the answer? Mark Steed returns to the Educator’s Corner podcast to continue the conversation on remote teaching, flexible models, and reimagining the future of schooling.Following their packed session at the COBIS Conference in London, Kai and Mark pick up where they left off. In this episode, they explore how innovative teaching models could help address two major challenges: teacher recruitment and student attendance.In this episode, Kai and Mark discuss:01:26 Why some schools have no choice but to go hybrid06:21 Why paying teachers more isn’t th...
2025-05-3142 min
Educator’s CornerIs Remote Teaching the Solution to the Global Teacher Shortage? In Conversation with Mark SteedCould going remote really be the solution to the teacher recruitment crisis? Recent survey findings from Teacher Horizons suggest online teaching is here to stay, but not everyone agrees. Director and Consultant at Steed Education, Mark Steed, rejoins the Educator's Corner podcast to discuss whether remote teaching really is a viable solution to the current teacher shortage. Join us as we discuss: Why we find ourselves in the midst of a recruitment crisis What 1,600 teachers think about the future of teachingLessons from British School Muscat's venture into remote teac...
2025-04-2442 min
Educator’s CornerBeyond the Myths: Your Guide to International Teaching with Laura RigneyLaura Rigney, Director of School Services at Teacher Horizons, joins Kai to dispel common myths about teaching internationally. Discover the realities of career opportunities, salary expectations, and the diverse experiences available in international schools.In this episode:02:39 Myth 1: International teachers are misfits, missionaries, or mercenaries.06:46 Myth 2: You can't do your ECT year abroad11:17 Myth 3: Tier one schools are the only desirable option19:44 Myth 4: Teaching abroad is only for young, single professionals23:25 Myth 5: Teaching abroad is financially lucrative27:14 Cost of living and quality of life indices32:58 Researching outgoings and taxes39:51 Bottom Line It Round: Tips for applicants
2025-03-2644 min
Educator’s CornerHow to Develop Empathy as a Teacher or School Leader | In Conversation with Ed KirwanEmpathy has been named one of the most important leadership skills. But what does empathy mean? Can it be taught? If so, how can teachers and aspiring leaders develop empathy?In this inspiring conversation, Ed Kirwan, founder and CEO of Empathy Studios and Empathy Week, explains how empathy can break down barriers, boost student engagement, improve behaviour and allow everyone to thrive. Ed shares:What empathy truly meansWhy empathy is so important for teachers and leadersHow to cultivate this vital 21st-century skillThrough sharing his p...
2025-03-0547 min
Educator’s CornerWhy Have Children Stopped Reading and What Can We Do About It? With Daisy ChristodoulouEngland's primary school students rank fourth globally in reading proficiency. And yet, reading for pleasure is at its lowest level since 2005. Meanwhile, fewer young people are choosing to study English literature at A Level, and around 50% of UK adults do not read regularly. In this episode, Daisy Christodoulou, Director of Education at No More Marking, sheds light on the reasons behind this shift. She explains:- Why so many children have stopped reading for pleasure- Which subjects students are choosing instead of English literature- How this declining trend is playing out across the globe- What teachers, parents and governments...
2025-02-2343 min
Educator’s CornerTeach on the Beach?Is teaching in the United Arab Emirates all about brunches, beaches, and tax-free salaries? In this episode, we delve into the reality of teaching in the UAE with the Editorial Director of Teach Middle East Magazine, Leisa Grace Wilson.Join us as we explore the opportunities and challenges of working in one of the fastest-growing international education hubs. We discuss the growing demand for international teachers, why so many UK teachers are moving abroad, and what you need to know before making the leap.In this episode, learn about: 2:10 Leisa's journey to the U...
2025-01-2954 min
Educator’s CornerIs it time to phase out GCSEs?In this episode, we get curious about curriculum redesign and innovation with Will Goldsmith, Headteacher of Bedales School in the UK.Bedales, along with Latymer Upper School, made news headlines in September 2023 for ditching GCSE qualifications.Bedales' 10-year curriculum redesign involves replacing GCSEs with their own Bedales Assessed Courses (BACs) to better equip students for the next stage in learning and life. In this episode, learn about: 2:00 Bedales’ history of innovation4:19 Daily life at Bedales6:21 Search for reform10:13 A GCSE-free curriculum13:16 Beda...
2025-01-1550 min
Educator’s CornerThe AI-proof Skills Our Students Need for the Future | In Conversation with Leo ThompsonAI is currently dominating the conversation in education. But is it the most urgent priority? As fake news infiltrates our social media feeds and deepfakes become evermore convincing, young people need more than AI literacy to navigate the world.That’s a view shared by the OECD, WEF, McKinsey and today’s guest, Leo Thompson. As a teacher, school leader and Edsplorer, Leo is known for his work in helping improve learning and wellbeing for children. In this episode, he joins Kai to discuss:- The essential skills students need to successfully and independently navigate a post-AI world- A ques...
2024-11-2848 min
Educator’s CornerWhy AI Will Never Replace Teachers: In Conversation with Priya LakhaniBill Gates recently predicted that AI will replace teachers within 10 years. But is he right? In this episode, we sit down with Priya Lakhani, CEO and founder of Century Tech, to explore what AI really means for the future of education. Join us as we discuss: - The biggest challenges and opportunities of using AI in education - 3 ethical considerations that every school AI policy should embrace - How to balance AI-powered tools with traditional teaching methods - Why AI will never fully replace the role of teachers While new technologies may change classrooms beyond recognition, this conversation reveals...
2024-10-2949 min
Educator’s CornerEducator's Corner Ep 12: Beyond OFSTED, Curriculum Reform and AIIn this episode, we speak with Lord Jim Knight, a prominent figure in education and technology, about moving beyond Ofsted, curriculum reform, and the impact of AI on education.
Lord Knight, former Minister of State for Schools and member of Gordon Brown's cabinet, is currently non-executive chair of several organisations including E-Act, Century Tech, STEM Learning and COBIS. He shares his journey from theatre manager and sales rep to politician and education reformer.
Key topics discussed:
Findings and conclusions from the Beyond Ofsted review, which Lord Knight recently chaired
Challenges in moving past the...
2024-09-2346 min
Educator’s Corner4 Simple Ways to Support Staff Wellbeing in Schools | In Conversation with Mark LeppardTeacher wellbeing is central to student success, which is why it’s a key priority for many school leaders. But with limited time and resources, how can we make a real difference to staff wellbeing?Mark Leppard MBE, Headmaster at The British School Al Khubairat in Abu Dhabi, joins us to explore 4 practical ways to support staff wellbeing in schools. Tune in to discover:- One simple protocol that can drastically improve staff wellbeing- How giving feedback fosters positive relationships between colleagues- Why schools should implement flexible work arrangements - Successful examples of flexible working strategies in schools (including fo...
2024-09-1243 min
Educator’s CornerWhy the International School Sector Is Experiencing Rapid Growth | With Grainne O'ReillyThe international school sector has seen an impressive 8.5% growth over the past five years. According to ISC Research, 1,097 new schools have opened since 2019, and the market serves a total of 7.4 million students worldwide. In this episode, we are joined by seasoned leadership consultant Grainne O'Reilly to explore the factors fuelling this rapid expansion of the international schools sector. Kai and Grainne cover: - Why more parents are choosing international schools - The benefits to students of joining an international school - The challenges and opportunities of being a founding headteacher in this sector- The distinctions between working for a school...
2024-09-0257 min
The International ClassroomInternational Back-to-School Advice: Top Tips from Global Education ExpertsAs schools around the world prepare for a new academic year, educators face unique challenges and opportunities. In this episode of The International Classroom, we’ve gathered insights from global education experts who share their top tips for navigating the back-to-school season. From leveraging the latest teaching technologies to fostering an inclusive and resilient classroom environment, these international leaders offer practical advice and proven strategies for a successful start to the school year. Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or parent, tune in to discover actionable insights that can make a difference in classrooms everywhere.
Keep the conv...
2024-08-1652 min
Educator’s CornerHow to Use Data to Boost Student Wellbeing and Belonging | In Conversation with Matthew SavageHow can schools improve student wellbeing and inclusivity? In this episode of the Educator’s Corner podcast, I am joined by Matthew Savage, an educational consultant and creator of the "Mona Lisa Effect," to explore this question. Matthew shares: - The importance of data in measuring what truly matters in education.- How leaders can create a more supportive and inclusive learning environment.- Simple strategies for winning over educators who find data intimidating.- How kind, warm, street, and slow data fit into the broader context of education. This compelling conversation offers a unique perspective on how data ca...
2024-06-1352 min
Educator’s CornerThe Global Teacher Recruitment Crisis: 12 Innovative Solutions to Recruit Great Educators (Part 2)The global teacher shortage is hitting UK schools particularly hard. According to a recent Public Accounts Committee (PAC) report, 46% of secondary schools had at least one vacant position in the last academic year. British international schools are also struggling to recruit specialist secondary teachers.So, how can we solve the teacher shortage? Can innovation save us?In Part 2 of the Global Teacher Recruitment Crisis series, Mark Steed and I discuss some of the more innovative solutions to recruiting and retaining talented educators. We explore:- Key aspects to include in a school employment strategy- How remote tutoring could solve...
2024-04-2552 min
Educator’s CornerEducator's Corner Ep 7: Team Coaching: What It Is, What It Is Not, and How It Can Combat BurnoutTeam Coaching: What It Is, What It Is Not, and How It Can Combat Burnout
In Episode 7 of the Educator's Corner podcast, Linda Berlot discusses team coaching with host Kai Vacher, highlighting its transformative impact and role as an antidote for burnout.
Key Points:
Understanding the essence of team coaching and its distinction from 1:1 coaching.
Exploring the purpose and significance of team coaching in organisational settings.
Clarifying misconceptions about team coaching and its practical implications.
Kai's journey from team coaching sceptic to advocate, sharing a personal story of rediscovery and gr...
2024-03-3140 min
Educator’s CornerThe Global Teacher Recruitment Crisis: Looming Challenge or Opportunity for Innovation? (Part 1)Join industry trailblazer and thought leader Mark Steed and me as we delve into one of the most pressing challenges facing international education today: the teacher recruitment crisis. The global teacher shortage is often likened to a "grey rhino", an imminent threat that has been looming for several years but is now poised to strike with devastating impact. Throughout this episode, we examine the current state of teacher recruitment crises across educational systems and schools worldwide. We analyse:- Why we’re facing a global teacher recruitment crisis- The implications of teacher shortages on our students' education- Existing efforts by...
2024-03-0439 min
Educator’s CornerHow Coaching Boosts Learning Outcomes and Creates a Positive School Culture | With Nicholas McKieSome educators think coaching is fluffy, ineffective and impractical. Yet, research says otherwise. According to the International Coaching Federation, organisations that create coaching cultures are more likely to recruit and retain high-performing staff and increase employee engagement. That’s why today’s guest, Nicholas McKie, believes that schools could benefit from embracing a coaching culture. As an International Executive Coach with over 20 years of experience in educational leadership, Nicholas joins us to explore the benefits of coaching in schools. He shares: - The key differences between coaching, teaching and mentoring - How schools can start to build a coaching cult...
2024-02-0647 min
Educator’s CornerEducator’s Corner Ep 4: AI the story so far…Welcome to Episode 4 of the Educator's Corner podcast. In this solo episode I offer a summary of what I’ve been learning since the first ‘Educators Corner’ Podcast at the start of this term back in September.
I’ll do this by sharing our AI strategy at British School Muscat and British School Salalah for the rest of the academic year.
In the podcast I reference ‘The Coming Wave’ by Mustafa Suleyman.
You might also like to listen to Mustafa Suleyman in conversation with Steven Bartlett on Diary of a CEO discussing key points from...
2023-12-2008 min
Educator’s CornerHow Can We Use AI Responsibly and Securely in Education? In Conversation with Philippa WraithmellDo the benefits of using AI in schools outweigh the risks? What guardrails should we put in place to ensure we’re using AI responsibly?In this episode of the Educator’s Corner podcast, Kai explores these questions with Phillipa Wraithmell, Assistant Principal at Rashid and Latifa School, Dubai, and author of The Digital Ecosystem. They discuss:- How leaders can support their colleagues and students to use AI safely and responsibly- A crucial piece of documentation to safeguard our students and our communities - How our policies can evolve to allow AI to empower learning ethically#AI #ReimaginingEducation #Inno...
2023-11-1232 min
Educator’s Corner9 Practical Ways Teachers Can Use AI in the Classroom: In conversation with Dan FitzpatrickSince the launch of ChatGPT, schools and teachers everywhere have been pondering how, when and even whether to use AI in the classroom. Is it safe to use with students? Should we encourage or punish the use of generative AI tools? And will this technology replace teachers?In this episode of The Educator’s Corner podcast, Kai is joined by educational pioneer and keynote speaker Dan Fitzpatrick, also known as The AIEducator. Through practical examples, storytelling and his Geordie humour, Dan shares responsible ways teachers and students can use AI in the classroom to support rather than replace learning. Th...
2023-10-0142 min
Educator’s CornerThe Challenges, Opportunities and Dangers of Using AI in Education | In Conversation with Cat PlaceI’m delighted to share with you the first episode of the ‘Educator’s Corner’ podcast: the show that brings you conversations with educators from all over the world; conversations where we stay curious for a little longer about the issues, challenges and opportunities which we are facing in our schools and our communities.This week on the Educator’s Corner podcast, I’ll be discussing leadership, sustainability and artificial intelligence with our first EC podcast guest Catherine Place from Jubilee Park Primary School in Newport, South Wales. This is the first episode in an ‘AI in education’...
2023-09-0744 min
Teach Middle East PodcastTackling The Big Questions In International Education with Kai VacherSend us a textJoin us for a thought-provoking Teach Middle East podcast episode as we dive into Education's Big Questions with our guest, Kai Vacher ( Principal of the British School Muscat and Salalah). Bio: A dynamic thinker and innovator, Kai has devoted his career to teaching, learning and seeking ways to bring out the very best in students, teachers and the community. Kai has an appreciation of and interest in combining the best traditional teaching methods with more innovative, research-based approaches. As the Principal of British School Muscat since 2011, Kai ha...
2023-05-0153 min
Teach:Amazing!Explore teaching at the British School of MuscatIn this episode we meet Kai Vacher the Principal at the British School of Muscat. The British School of Muscat is a long established school with deep roots in Oman and Kai talks passionately about the school and its efforts to become a leading school in the region. In this in-depth interview we cover the school's recent investment in state of the art facilities along with the strategic initiatives that the school has been involved in over the last couple of years.
If you are interested in teaching in a British school in the Middle East then...
2022-12-2858 min
Heads UpInspiration from the International Education CommunityIn this episode hosted by our Research Consultant Janelle Torres, we celebrate inspiring ideas from the international education community. We talked to representatives of the International School of the Year 2022 and to some of the top social media influencers within international education.Thank you to our guests:- Vicki Davis, teacher and blogger aka Cool Cat Teacher- Kai Vacher, Principal of British School Muscat- Al Kingsley, CEO of NetSupport- Sophie Bailey, founder and host of The Edtech Podcast- Representatives of the International School of Zug and Luzern, #ISAwards 2022...
2022-02-1729 min
#InspiringSchoolsPodcastSeason 2, Episode 9 ~ Kai VacherIn this episode, I discuss the importance of leaders on social media, Heads as politicians, using the 'fleas in a jar' metaphor to adopt a growth mindset, and training teachers in-house as part of an internship programme.
2021-11-1730 min
Inspiring VoicesKai Vacher: Flexible education in OmanIn this episode, Director of Persyou, Nicholas McKie is joined by Kai Vacher, Principal of British Schools Oman, a Council Of British International Schools board member and country rep for British Schools in the Middle East. In this conversation Kai outlines his vision for education going forward framed around 'FlexEd', a new project he is developing in Oman. A fascinating discussion on a new way of education. https://www.persyou.com/Hello@persyou.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@persyouhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/persyou/
2020-06-2549 min
The Edtech PodcastWhat Matters in Edtech Middle East and AfricaWelcome to the second episode of the GLOBAL edition of our What Matters in Edtech Series, our podcast collaboration with Bett. This podcast series is all about the things that matter in education, and how and when tech might help. Thanks to Bett for supporting the series, to Teacherly for sponsoring this week's episode and to the wonderful Sam Wheeler for leading on interviews while Sophie grapples with her Quaranteenie baby. What's in this episode? In this episode, we focus on the Middle East and Africa; you'll hear about the role of tech and community...
2020-06-151h 31The Edtech PodcastWhat Matters in Edtech Middle East and AfricaWelcome to the second episode of the GLOBAL edition of our What Matters in Edtech Series, our podcast collaboration with Bett. This podcast series is all about the things that matter in education, and how and when tech might help. Thanks to Bett for supporting the series, to Teacherly for sponsoring this week's episode and to the wonderful Sam Wheeler for leading on interviews while Sophie grapples with her Quaranteenie baby. What's in this episode? In this episode, we focus on the Middle East and Africa; you'll hear about the role of tech and community...
2020-06-151h 31