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.

• When 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.

The Work Collaborative Model for Organisational Change

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 𝕏, and LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com.

Shane 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, 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.

Paul's website

Paul'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 𝕏, and LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com.

Shane 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.

This week, I explore the "Connection" phase of organisational change.

Episode Highlights

• The 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 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, and LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com.

Shane 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.