School Culture–What’s The Secret Sauce?

Thanks to all of you who read last week's newsletter and reached out. I'm delighted to share that I've fully recovered from my recent bout with the flu. It's great to be back to full form, and I'm excited to reconnect with each of you through my weekly newsletter. The fact that so many of you read this round-up each week means a lot to me.

This week's newsletter is inspired by Steve Lupton . He recently wrote an article for Teach Middle East Magazine on school culture which I will link later in this newsletter, and it inspired me to stir up something special of my own. I'm not just talking about a delicious recipe (although, who doesn't love a good culinary creation?), but rather a recipe for something even more nourishing: A Thriving School Culture. So, put aprons on and let's get cooking!

Here is my recipe for a Thriving School Culture

Ingredients:

A Pinch of Positivity: Start with a base of positive energy. A smile, a kind word, and an encouraging environment go a long way in making our school a happy place to learn and grow.

A Cup of Communication: Open, honest, and clear communication forms the broth of our school culture. It keeps us connected and informed, ensuring everyone's on the same page.

Two Tablespoons of Trust: Essential for any strong relationship, trust is the oil that keeps the gears of our school running smoothly.

A Handful of High Expectations: Set the bar high! High expectations challenge us to bring out the best in ourselves and each other.

A Sprinkle of Support and Empathy: A dash of support for each other's goals and challenges makes the school culture more nurturing and empathetic.

A Slice of School Spirit: Our shared experiences, traditions, and pride in our school add flavour to our daily interactions.

A Dash of Diversity: Celebrate our differences. A diverse blend of backgrounds, ideas, and perspectives enriches our learning environment.

A Generous Serving of Safety and Well-being: A safe and supportive environment is the container that holds all these ingredients together.

Method:

Mix all ingredients in the heart of our school community.

Stir with care, patience, and persistence.

Season with love, laughter, and learning.

Let it simmer with continuous efforts and dedication.

Serve warm, with a side of collaboration and mutual respect.

Click this link to check out Steve Lupton 's article.

School Culture–What's The Secret Sauce?

Teach Middle East Podcast New Episode Alert ??

I am thrilled to bring you an intimate conversation with Steven Giles , the principal of Raffles International School Dubai. Come along as he takes us on a journey through his life, sharing his profound love for the UAE and its people and giving us a glimpse into his personal and professional world. From his beginnings at a school in Al Ain to his current leadership role at Raffles, we discover what makes Steve an exceptional educational leader, husband and father.

Life, leadership and the pursuit of happiness: Behind the Principal's Desk with Steve Giles.

UPCOMING EVENTS

The Middle East School Leadership Conference 2024

February 21-22, 2024

Grosvenor House Hotel

Dubai

www.schoolleadersme.com

Early Bird Specials are available until December 10, 2023.

See you all next week!