Leading Your International School LYIS

Join Anna and Barry as they discuss the insights of overseas teaching and leadership. Anna has 25 years experience teaching in and leading independent schools both in the UK and abroad. 



In this episode, Anna shares her experiences in education, particularly focusing on her time working overseas. She highlights the challenges and rewards of working with diverse cultures and the importance of adaptability and resilience in teaching. Anna emphasises the value of international experiences for both educators and students, as they bring unique perspectives and skills to the learning environment. The conversation also touches on recruitment practices and the role of multiculturalism in education.

Join Alistair and Barry as they discuss the rewards and challenges of a Start-Up School. Alistair Downs, Education Director of Reigate Grammar School in Saudi Arabia, discusses his experience with startup schools. He emphasises the importance of tailoring the school vision to local communities and fostering parent involvement for success. Throughout the discussion, Alistair highlights the value of welcoming environments, diverse communication channels, and soft skills in school leadership. He also mentioned that while Saudi Arabia offers diverse experiences, access to information and language skills remain areas for improvement.





➡️ Alistair is currently leading the rollout of Reigate Grammar School campuses across KSA and the region, alongside overseeing the ADECO GCC group of schools. 



➡️ He holds a BSc in Geography from Loughborough University, a PGCE from the University of Cambridge, a Masters in Educational Leadership and Management, and has completed the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH).

The current role and the future of school libraries and school librarians.

Join Sarah and Barry as they discuss the changing dynamics of school libraries, underscoring the crucial role of qualified librarians in fostering inquiry-based learning. Sarah also explores the implications of integrating artificial intelligence in education, highlighting the necessity for adapting assessment methods to promote critical thinking skills. Throughout the discussion, Sarah and Barry emphasises the evolving nature of educational landscapes and the need for thoughtful approaches to leverage technology effectively.

➡️ Sarah holds a BSc Hons in Biochemistry, MSc Information Science, AET Level 3, Fellowship of Chartered Institute of Library & Information Professionals (CILIP), Fellowship of Royal Society of Arts (FRSA).
➡️ She is the author of several books on school librarianship, regular conference presenter, member of UK National committee of School Libraries Group of CILIP and Information Literacy Group of CILIP. ➡️ Currently a team member for UK for Erasmus Project "BRIDGE" on information & digital literacy in primary schools, a semi-professional folk musician and ceilidh caller from the Albert Hall to village hals.

LinkedIn:   / sp4il  
Facebook:   / sarah.pavey.31  
Instagram:   / sarahpavey1  
X: @Sarahinthelib

Sarah speaks regularly at the LILAC information Literacy Conference and her most recent conference appearances have been ECIL 2023 in Krakow and a guest lecture for Cambridge Online School. In 2024 she will be speaking at SJSU conference California (virtually) at the Library 2.0, World Education Summit Online (John Hattie's visible learning conference) and LILAC 2024. She is used to public speaking through regular training sessions runs and guest invitations to speak on library topics.

Join Greg Parry and Barry Cooper as they dive deep into the unique niche of bridging education and business. This enriching discussion touches on staff turnover in international schools, acknowledging its inevitability and highlighting strategies to involve teachers in the recruitment process to enhance alignment with the school's vision and mission. The podcast sheds light on the critical role of culture and leadership in maintaining a school's ethos and ensuring its longevity.

In this episode, Barry Cooper and Jo Evans discuss the process and challenges of starting up an international school, emphasising the importance of communication, cultural understanding, and flexibility in the process. They delve into the intricacies of launching and operating international schools, emphasising the significance of open communication, cultural adaptation, and flexibility. This insightful conversation provides valuable advice for both educators and school leaders looking to embark on similar journeys.



LYIS leadership consultancy available starting January 2024.

Join guest host Barry Cooper and Dr Jill Berry as they discuss Chapter Six of LYIS - 'Your International School Culture'. Find out why "culture is the glue that binds people together during tremendous times of need" and is "fundamental to our schools, particularly in our times of need". An enlightening conversation that suggests how we might also develop our cultures through the power of our stories. Jill's remarkable research, experiences and powerful ideas make for an enthralling conversation.