Start of 2010 school year

What an amazing start I (we) have already had. Last week, all the teaching staff attended the Teachers Matter conference here in Christchurch.

What a great way to start the year. There were many workshops to choose from and awesome keynote speakers.

One of the workshops I attended was given on Transformational Leadership by Mike Handcock http://www.rockyourlife.net/. He talked of the seven senses, how making each decision has an effect on what happens, and making the most of others and their abilities in the workplace for the better of the workplace.

As an inspirational speaker on cultural change and personal development, Ngahihi-o-te-Ra Bidois was again personally inspirational and motivating. His website http://www.ngahibidois.com/ gives insight as to what he talks about. Take time to listen to the Flash movie on the home page.

Obviously, there were a number of other speakers which spoke on a miscellany of things relevant to teaching and learning today for today's children. I had heard Glen Capelli (http://www.glenncapelli.com/ ) and David Koutsoukis (http://www.davidkoutsoukisltd.com/) speak at this time last year, but what they say and how they say it is always relevant and timely.

I have an absolutely brilliant team working with me here at Wairakei School. The year is going to be a great one.