Richard Henry

Together, they have close to 100 years of experience in international education and all three recognize that innovation is not only a possibility but a necessity. Meet Richard Henry, Head of School at GEMS World Academy Singapore, James Dalziel, Head of School at NIST International School Bangkok, and James MacDonald, Director at ISB in Brussels. Besides running very successful schools, the three host the podcast series ‘Where’s Your Head At?’ in which they explore current issues and trends in global education.

James and Richard, what are the challenges and opportunities for moving innovation in schools forward in the current climate?

Innovation should take place in any climate but there are always challenges. There is now an expectation in schools to be innovative and the danger is that we innovate for the sake of innovation. The way forward would provide a structure for a truly adaptive mindset and then create the conditions for a disciplined approach to adaptive thinking and possible action. This way, no matter what type of disruptions come our way, our community stakeholders are adaptable, flexible and growth-minded. 

Leading a school and caring for all stakeholders is very challenging at the moment. What are the priorities at your schools? 

Wellbeing has been shown to increase learning, which is the core purpose of the school. Creating a community that has a strong sense of belonging and connectedness helps reduce stress and anxiety and increases safety and security = increases learning. So, the priorities are what they have always been: create a professional environment of belonging, growth and all of the elements connected to true professional wellbeing. Resilience is time-bound; no one can tread water forever. Children are amazingly resilient and will learn when provided with the best conditions possible. 

What changes have you implemented at your schools you are most proud of? 

I am most proud of the fact that we are all still standing and offering a high-quality education. We adapted to online learning by increasing our professional capacity in the necessary knowledge and skill areas. We did it quickly. We also found ways to continue professional development in the new environment. 

Where do you see education heading in the next few years? 

Celebrating the return to on-campus learning, being physically together, and enjoying the opportunity to learn in the close and intimate proximity of others. As Tony Little said, if there is one thing that the pandemic has taught us, it is that schools are primarily places for social development. The academics are secondary. 

Thank you, James D, James MD & Richard! We look forward to your next episodes.

Check out their ‘conversations today about education tomorrow’: www.education2morrow.com and the podcast with Dr. Helen Kelly www.education2morrow.com/wellbeing-and-resilience-in-schools/