Max Kelly

Discover the daily experiences of a school leader in the Isle of Man as they navigate through various tasks and responsibilities. From engaging visits by RockKidz to attending meetings and addressing staffing needs, explore the routine yet essential aspects of managing three schools. As the TT Half Term approaches, offering a break coinciding with the Isle of Man TT races, join author Max Kelly as he continues his journey from leading two schools to leading three schools. Each day brings its own set of challenges and rewards as you will see in this record of days 73 to 85…

Join author Max Kelly on Days 60 to 72 of his expanded role with Willaston School. He’ll take you through 12days punctuated with two bank holidays, a fun and festive coronation themed day, a welly walk to raise money, and the highly anticipated return of the Rocktastic Rock Kidz. With plenty of muddy moments and rockin’ rhythms its been three weeks to remember!

Join me on a whirlwind journey through Days 51 to 59, as I continue my adventure juggling the demands of not one, but three schools. From visiting consultants to Irish musicians, from Parents’ Evenings to cross country championships, and everything in between, it’s a non-stop ride of paperwork, meetings, and the occasional well-earned beer. Get ready for another glimpse into the busy, challenging, and rewarding life of a Headteacher…

As I reflect on my first 50 days in post at Willaston School, I am struck by the resilience and positivity of both the students and staff. I’ve been at Laxey and Dhoon for many years, but this also marks 50 days as their Head whilst also being Head at Willaston. In this latest reflection, despite facing difficult news from the parent community at Dhoon School, everyone came together to support each other and ensure that the day ran smoothly. In this blog, I share some of the highlights of the past two weeks, including a girls’ football tournament, cycling proficiency training, and catching up with parents. Join me as I celebrate the successes of our partnership of schools and look ahead to the next 50 days.

Max Kelly continues to chart his daily adventures as a headteacher in this ongoing blog which captures his first 100 days in post at Willaston School. From deep-cleaning the school after the half-term break to introducing new changes in the lunchtime service, this blog takes you through the ups and downs of school life. With a focus on improving the learning environment, a challenge to staff to transform the main corridor into a wonderful thematic display and the arrival of spring with Daffodil Days and World Book Day, author Max Kelly also faces unexpected staff news, technical difficulties and two snow days…

In the weeks leading up to the half-term break, I have reached Day 30 at Willaston School. More widely across the partnership the three school’s have been a hive of activity. From CPD sessions for our dedicated staff to Valentine’s discos for our enthusiastic students, we’ve been committed to providing a well-rounded educational experience for all. As Headteacher, I was delighted to welcome our EAS partnership visit and showcase the excellent work we’ve been doing. It’s also been a bittersweet time as we say goodbye to some of our retiring staff members who have been an integral part of our school community for many years. Read on for a closer look at the highlights of the past few weeks…