Tag: featured
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The Isle of Man vs. OFSTED: Rethinking Quality Assurance and Accountability in Schools
In recent years, the Isle of Man has introduced a new quality assurance (QA) mechanism for schools, featuring an inspection element called “external validation.” As an Executive Headteacher overseeing Dhoon, Laxey, and Willaston Schools, I have firsthand experience with this system. This blog provides an in-depth look at external validation, comparing it favorably to the…
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2023 In Review: Bridging Ideas and Cultivating Growth Through a Year Long Journey of Educational Encounters
As the Executive Headteacher of Dhoon School, Laxey School and Willaston School , my professional journey in 2023 was marked by a series of enriching interactions and visits. This blog is a focused reflection on these experiences, highlighting the significant contributions of various visitors and the insights gained from my visits to other places. Each…
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The School Leadership Advent Calendar: Unveiling a Day-by-Day Guide to Educational Excellence
Advent of Excellence: Daily Insights for School Leaders. Join Max Kelly in exploring the ‘School Leadership Advent Calendar,’ a daily revelation of key principles for educational excellence. Each day unlocks a vital aspect of leadership, blending festive charm with impactful strategies. Discover a unique perspective on nurturing and guiding schools towards greatness.
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Recipe for SUCCESS: HOW to Cook Up a STORM with an Off-the-Shelf Curriculum!
In this latest blog, delve into the innovative journey of integrating the Cornerstones Curriculum into individual schools so that you reflect your context and weave in your own magic to bring it to life. This blog explores how we, like masterchefs, have creatively adapted and seasoned standard educational ‘recipes’ to suit the unique tastes of…
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Battle of the Headteachers: Fiction’s Finest Face the Top Trumps Challenge
Fancy yourself as a famous headteacher? Ready to bask in the hot-glow reputation of a wise and loved head who can do no wrong, like the ever-popular Mr Chips, or are you hoping to avoid being known as the next Miss Trunchbull? In his latest blog, author Max Kelly takes us on an explorative journey…
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Atlas of Halcyon Halls
I slipped away quietly as the summer term drew to a close on that final day, observing teachers’ shoulders soften under a cascade of gifts, enveloped in warm hugs from children and parents alike. They’d fulfilled their duties with distinction, summer’s joyous anticipation humming in the air. Another fruitful school-year had passed – and now,…
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Should Headteachers Be PROUD To Be The WORST Teacher In Their School? The Answer May SURPRISE You!
How do exceptional teachers, turned headteachers, appear to become the “worst” in the classroom -and is it to be expected? Author Max Kelly argues that not only should it be expected, but it is perfectly healthy too. In his latest blog, uncover why this shift towards being the school’s worst teacher is vital for empowering…
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Whispers of Kindness
Kindness coach John Magee invited me to contribute to the Kindness Matters blog. My submission took the form of a poem – Whispers of Kindness – which was first published on Kindness Matters on 17th June and is shared here for you to read. Enjoy.
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100 Not Out: Week 21 In A Headteacher’s Journey at Willaston School
In this final installment of the blog series, we join author Max Kelly as he pens down his thoughts on the incredible journey that has been his first 100 days as Headteacher of three schools. From days 96 to 100, Max reflects on the trials, triumphs, and challenges that have shaped his journey…
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Czech-mates in Education: Week 20 In A Headteacher’s Journey at Willaston School
Join author Max Kelly as he nears the end of his documented journey through his first 100 days working at Willaston School. This week covers days 91 – 95…
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Embracing Growth and Kindness: Week 19 In A Headteacher’s Journey at Willaston School
Read about author Max Kelly’s whirlwind week filled with excitement, challenges, and heartwarming moments. This week’s blog is a journey that showcases the power of collaboration, resilience, and the pursuit of kindness. Week 19 covers days 86 to 90. Enjoy…
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A TT-rific Journey Speeding Through The Summer Term: Weeks 16 to 18 In A Headteacher’s Journey at Willaston School
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…
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Coronations, Crowns and Curriculum – Weeks 13 to 15 In A Headteacher’s Journey at Willaston School
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…
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A Whirlwind Term Comes to an End: Weeks 11 and 12 In A Headteacher’s Journey at Willaston School
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…
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Progress, Pride And Reaching 50 Days: Weeks 9 and 10 In A Headteacher’s Journey at Willaston School
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,…
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Snow Days and School Daze: Weeks 7 and 8 In A Headteacher’s Journey at Willaston School
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…
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The Last Push Before Half-Term: Weeks 5 and 6 In A Headteacher’s Journey at Willaston School
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…
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Making headway: Weeks 3 and 4 In A Headteacher’s Journey at Willaston School
As I complete my third and fourth weeks as Executive Headteacher at Willaston School, I reflect on the incredible journey so far. The past 20 days have been filled with so many challenges and opportunities. From budget meetings and farewells to staff, to IQM assessments and funding reviews, these two weeks have been a whirlwind…
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Snow Storm and School Visits: Week 2 In A Headteacher’s Journey at Willaston School
Welcome to the second instalment in my record of my first 100 days as Executive Headteacher at Willaston School. This week was a roller coaster of events, from the challenges of a surprise snowstorm to the joy of celebrating students’ success. But, as with any good roller coaster, we’ve come out the other side with…
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Navigating the First Week: A Headteacher’s Journey at Willaston School
Welcome to my journey through my first 100 days as Executive Headteacher at Willaston School. I am excited to share with you my experiences as I navigate this new role and work to improve the school for the pupils, staff and community whilst maintaining my roles at Laxey School and Dhoon School. This week, follow…
MANX MAX 