Schools of the future

I have often been asked on my opinion of what schools of the future should look like using my broad international acumen – can we afford to wait, as we are living the future.

Vision is key

Developing a vision for a learner -centered approach that promotes innovation as part of the continuous learning culture of continual improvement is key to provide an education which will transforms lives and empower.

In developing such a school, there needs to be clarity in creating a culture of high expectations, and a belief system that every child can succeed, with a growth mindset for both students and teachers.

Teacher learning and developing of all teachers needs to be a key goal as this is what will have a positive impact on every child’s education. This needs to be in line with the schools vision for high aspirations.

The building of relationships of trust and respect with the community, with integrity and a shared belief that the school exists to create a leader in every child – is very powerful.

A leadership structure with a clear relentless focus on nurturing the gifts that learners have with inspiring and motivating memorable moments. A school that celebrates diversity and culture.

In believing every child learns the calibre of a school’s leadership focus becomes a critical factor – learning is the business.

A collaborative environment creates better successes in learning – the whole is greater than the sum of its part.

Future learners

There is no doubt that tomorrow’s world will be dominated by people who can learn on their own. And through the collaborative environment, we must teach students how to be innovative, creative, and self-directed learners.

Leadership of learning

Leadership of learning comes with action. We have so much information now at our fingertips where we can identify learner attributes, literacy, verbal, non-verbal, quantitative, spatial. Leaders should must rely on data more than ever before in order to create a personalised and impactful learning environment.

Clear expectations

Clear priorities, clear objectives, clear expectations, a focus on visible learning – simple but clinical. Without clarity and action there will be no success. Learning organizations don’t just evolve.  They are driving through focuses and directed leadership.

Success

The agreed vision will collaboratively emerge through the learners and the inspirational leadership orchestrated by the stake holders who are working together to unleash the gifts in every child.

I am keen to hear about any views from our readers. What else do we need to do as educational leaders?