Earlier this week it was a great privilege to be invited back to The University of Aberdeen to deliver the final lecture to their 2017/2018 Primary and Secondary PGDE Students. This is the fourth time I have been asked to deliver the final lecture and this year my theme was Leading, Learning and Teaching in challenging times.
I touched one some of the challenges that we currently face within the current VUCA World (a world full of Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity) as well as a need for a new narrative around Vision, Understanding, Clarity and Agility. Importantly I stressed that we needed to use this new narative to actually help people understand what is possible in Scottish Education (and education globally).
We also spent some time looking at examples of what is possible when you think differently about traditionally perceived education barriers (timetable, curriculum, vocational vs academic, skills agenda, etc..) and the importance of clarity while working towards a common goal & moral purpose.
Presentation slides here for anyone in my wider network who may be interested.
Summary of Key Messages:
- Focus on improvement.
- Improved teaching leads to improved achievement and attainment.
- Feedback (at all levels) is important.
- Always try to see the bigger picture.
- Develop a culture of reflection & revision.
- Work collectively and collegiately to overcome barriers in a VOCA world.