Teach Middle East Podcast Teach Middle East

In this episode of the Teach Middle East Podcast, host Leisa Grace sits down with Fiona Cottam, the principal of Hartland International School. They reminisce about the Middle East School Leadership Conference and delve into Fiona's journey into school leadership. The discussion also touches on the resilience and challenges faced along the way, reflecting Fiona's personal experiences and career path in education.
As they look to the future, Leisa Grace and Fiona explore the evolving landscape of education in the digital and post-pandemic era. Offering a mix of leadership insights and personal stories, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of educational leadership today.


Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need, to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools.
Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast.
Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/.

Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson
Connect with Leisa Grace:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

In this podcast episode, we talk with Dr. Steffen Sommer, Director General of Misk Schools in Saudi Arabia, about his journey from working in the automotive industry to leading in education in the Middle East. 

He shares his experience with Misk Schools, a project initiated by the Saudi Crown Prince to combine international educational standards with Saudi cultural values. Dr. Sommer discusses his career shift, the role of multilingual education, and the strategies used to prepare Saudi students for global engagement.

We also look into the development of what makes Misk Schools unique and the Crown Prince's vision for the school's role in Saudi Arabia's development. This institution aims to support Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 by providing high-quality education. We discuss the importance of investing in education and the decisions that help shape future leaders and innovators.

Finally, Dr. Sommer discusses combining traditional Saudi teaching methods with international expertise. He highlights the efforts to train a new generation of educators and the importance of adaptable leadership in a culturally diverse environment. This episode is for anyone interested in educational innovation and leadership, particularly in the Middle East's evolving educational landscape.

Connect with Dr Steffen Sommer here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steffen-sommer-1568b816/
Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need, to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools.
Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast.
Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/.

Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson
Connect with Leisa Grace:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

Join Jenny Mollon in this podcast episode as we examine classroom design and how it can improve student engagement. We also discuss the impact of layout and atmosphere on learning and emotional well-being and the transformation of classrooms from traditional learning environments to spaces that develop adaptable skills for future careers.
Jenny provides insights into creating environments that support both individual concentration and group collaboration, helping students feel connected and focused.
Listen in as we explore how to maximise every part of a school, including halls and libraries, to enhance learning and community involvement. 

Connect with Jenny here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferfmollon/
Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need, to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools.
Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast.
Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/.

Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson
Connect with Leisa Grace:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

Have you ever wondered if smaller class sizes always translate to better learning? In this episode, we challenge that assumption with our guest, Prof Dr Ger Graus OBE, a seasoned educator and educational advisor. Ger brings a wealth of experience from traditional and non-traditional learning environments, and he's here to shed light on the benefits of larger classrooms.

This episode goes beyond the simple notion of "less is more." We'll explore the value of diverse learning dynamics and how quality teaching can truly shine, regardless of class size. Ger will reveal the dynamic interplay that happens when students learn from each other and how a larger classroom environment can actually offer a richer palette of interactive and collaborative opportunities. We'll also tackle the stigma associated with labelling in small classrooms and emphasize the importance of cultivating exceptional teachers who can steer education towards a brighter future.

But this episode doesn't stop at the present. We'll also take an inspired look ahead with Prof Dr Ger Graus. Get ready to explore his vision of a future where schools transcend their traditional roles. We'll delve into the potential of AI, the exciting possibilities of integrating students' digital fluency, and how these advancements can level the educational playing field. Join us as we embark on a journey to reimagine the boundaries of what schools can achieve and harness technology to create a more equitable and awe-inspiring education system for all.
Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need, to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools.
Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast.
Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/.

Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson
Connect with Leisa Grace:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

Join us as we get to know Chandini Misra, the principal of Repton Al-Barsha, and hear about her journey from India to leading a school in Dubai. Starting as a science lover and becoming a journalist, Chandini eventually found her calling in education. Her story shows how following your passion can lead to making a real difference in students' lives.
In this episode, we also dive into our shared interests in podcasts, music, and food. We explore Dubai's food scene, talk about our cooking adventures, and how these experiences connect us to our roots. These conversations highlight how different hobbies and interests can influence who we are.
We also discuss the value of time, especially in family life and raising children. Chandini shares her insights on being a genuine leader, aligning personal values with professional goals, and finding satisfaction in her work. We look forward to the new chapter for Repton's sixth form and the future it holds for its students, all while appreciating the strong connections between teachers and students. Tune in to this episode for a down-to-earth chat that will make you think about your journey and your impact on others.


Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need, to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools.
Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast.
Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/.

Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson
Connect with Leisa Grace:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

Grab a cup of your favourite beverage and join us for a heartfelt conversation with Hannah Wilson, the inspiring mind behind DiverseEd. This episode is tailor-made for school leaders eager to navigate the complexities of educational leadership with authenticity and resilience.

Hannah opens up about the power of inclusivity, the journey from WomenEd to DiverseEd, and the critical role of staff well-being in fostering a thriving school environment. We'll share strategies for embracing feedback constructively, balancing leadership demands with personal well-being, and building a supportive community that celebrates every individual's unique contributions. 

This discussion is not just about ideas; it's about actionable steps you can take to enhance your leadership journey and positively impact your educational community. 

Tune in to discover how to lead authentically and inspire those around you to do the same.
Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need, to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools.
Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast.
Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/.

Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson
Connect with Leisa Grace:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/