Author: Richard Bruford

Richard is currently Secondary School Principal of Suzhou Singapore International School, one of China's leading international schools. He leads workshops across the Asia-Pacific region for the International Baccalaureate in the areas of pedagogical leadership and approaches to teaching and learning. Richard consults with schools on the topics of school improvement and effective implementation and use of technology. With a background in public and independent school education in the UK and Australia, Richard is enjoying his international school adventure in China. He is passionate about developing and supporting educational leaders, as it is essential to improving all schools. Richard is a proud family man and feels lucky to be married to Kim and father of their son Austin. In his spare time Richard enjoys to swim, bike and run and is a now retired football player and coach (with occasional guest appearances)

Ideas for school improvement are great but implementation is key

Educators are always looking for ways that they can improve their respective schools. Many initiatives are put forward, some take root, grow and help make our schools better, whilst others fizzle out and are just a flash in the pan. Sadly, it seems to me that more initiatives fall by the wayside than actually take... Continue Reading →

January 4, 2021 0

Understanding ripple effects and viewing the table from all angles leads to better decision-making in schools

Schools are complex working environments and leading change in schools is far from a straightforward process. Yet, where possible, we look to simplify things, as we form mental models, classify and categorize, and aim to be both effective and efficient. Sometimes, investing the time and resources to gaining a deeper and greater understanding of something... Continue Reading →

January 10, 2020 0

First steps to sharing vulnerability in teams – choose low stakes items

Building trust in teams comes through true connection with everyone who is on the team. We know that the best teams flourish when trust and connection has been established and is maintained, or even strengthened. Having spent some time watching Brene Brown's TED talk on the Power of Vulnerability and slowly making my way through... Continue Reading →

November 30, 2019 1

What are the key decision-making drivers in your school?

School leaders spend a lot of time developing strategic plans, setting goals and writing action plans. Often the best laid plans and intentions are often derailed and not realised owing to the constant struggle to maintain focus and keep on track. This, to a large extent, is precipitated by the number of 'other' matters that... Continue Reading →

November 9, 2019 0

The two sides to an ‘open door’ policy in leading schools

Many school leaders promote that they have an 'open door' policy but what exactly does this mean? Interpretations of having an 'open door' are somewhat mixed. To many teachers, a school leader having an 'open door' policy is a signal that means the leader is approachable, open to feedback and available to give guidance to... Continue Reading →

October 25, 2019 0

Communication – to do it well, it takes time

Communication is such an important element of leading schools successfully, yet the amount of time we spend planning communication is grossly underestimated. Good communication within and external to a school can not just keep stakeholders informed of what is going on, it can create action when needed, establish a school's identity, purpose and direction, as... Continue Reading →

October 15, 2019 0

Up ↑

%d bloggers like this: