Featured Teacher
This collaborative process is key to getting the “ buy in ” of all stakeholders and leads to a harmonious school , one in which everyone is committed to achieving the school ’ s goals .
What is the one thing that you would recommend to other principals who wish to create an inclusive school ?
The one key thing that I would tell fellow principals who want to create an inclusive school , is to focus on the happiness and wellbeing of their staff and students first . For a school to function effectively , there has to be a culture of openness , tolerance and inclusiveness . Ensure that every single person , whether it is staff , students , parents or members of the public ( who interact with your school ) feel valued . As a leader , listen more than you speak . The vision of our school is , ‘ Striving to integrate excellence … beyond borders ’. The journey matters more than the destination . At Westminster School Dubai , we recognise that our vision is one that will be ongoing as long as the school exists , as striving for excellence is an ongoing process .
How do you help teachers to share good practice with each other ?
With over three hundred teachers , I am proud to say that we have a wellspring of talents and at our school , sharing good practice has now become second nature . We not only share good practice within the school , but we have developed a good reputation in the education community in Dubai , for sharing good practice across schools . One of the key ways in which we help to develop this culture of sharing good practice is by allowing our teachers the freedom to innovate in their classrooms . They are able to carry out action research , try new methods and make small , but meaningful changes , which often have a significant impact on the students ’ progress and attainment . The teachers are given opportunities to share their work with their colleagues . We celebrate our teachers and encourage them to be as creative as possible and the result is a group of educators who embody a sense of community .
What do you do for fun or to unwind after a long day ?
Long days are now very normal for me . I do not feel the effects of the long days at school , because I enjoy being there . When I am there , I feel like I am with my extended family , as I am constantly surrounded by the joy and curiosity of the students and the camaraderie of my colleagues . When I am home , I like to go for long walks with my family , no matter what time it is , we try to do at least 5 kilometres . It is a great way to unwind , watch the world go by and spend time with those closest to me .
What is the one thing about you that would surprise your colleagues ?
My colleagues generally think that I am very business-like and focussed . It may surprise them to find out that I have a very playful side . I enjoy a good laugh . Another thing that surprises my colleagues is that no matter what the problem they come to me with , they always leave with a solution !
What is the best professional advice that you have received and how has this helped you ?
The best advice I have received is that leadership is more than just managing people and organisations . Leadership is investing in people so that , long after you are gone , the impact you have had on people ’ s lives , becomes a legacy that lives on . When I joined GEMS Education in 2003 , I was attracted by the core values of the Company . The leadership of GEMS Education , Chairman and Founder Sunny Varkey and Chief Executive Officer , Dino Varkey , are committed to investing in people and creating a legacy of excellence in education . I am happy to be contributing to the building of this lasting legacy .
Class Time | | Sep - Oct 2017 | 35