A standardized test is a set of tasks that schools give to students to tell them where a student is in their learning, how they are doing in comparison to thousands of others, and where they are most likely headed according to statistical probability. There is certainly something very seductive about the promise of standardized […]

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When we talk about ‘civil discourse’ we bring together two ideas which collectively make a third. Firstly, ‘civil’ refers to people like you and me within the society in which we live. Secondly, ‘discourse’ means conversation, or exchange of ideas, or the ways in which we share our views with each other. Hence ‘civil discourse’ refers […]

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Do you remember that awful moment in Peter Pan when Tinkerbell is near death? If you have seen a live version at the theater you may remember the audience being asked to clap  their hands to show that they still believe in fairies to inspire her to cling to life. The more they clap, the […]

Read more "Faith, Trust and Pixie Dust…"

At the end of each school year I write a letter to the school community reflecting on some of the things we have achieved together, and looking ahead to what the future might hold for our school. If you are reading this and you are – by some accident of Google- not an EARJ community […]

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This year I have been working with my community on the idea of resilience: grit. Ways we can help out children self-manage their emotions and self-manage their lives. Ways we can help our kids take responsibility for their own actions and deal confidently with setback and disappointment. In short, ways in which they can become […]

Read more "Mud, Trees & Skinned Knees…"

It is the hallmark of a school committed to building character that it creates opportunities for students to reflect. Reflection is a learnt skill. It requires introspection, honesty and self-awareness. Time to reflect – when scaffolded appropriately – can be immensely powerful for even very young students. But I do have some reservations. As important […]

Read more "Mirror, Mirror on the Wall…"

I am in awe of great parents, and I am fortunate to work with a great many of them every day. They support their children with a selflessness and an unconditional love that are truly wonderful to witness. Great parents create opportunities for their children to learn and to grow in ways that will help […]

Read more "“To All Great Parents… We Salute You!”"