BSME Talks

On this episode of BSME Talks, we revisit a standout moment from the BSME Annual School Leaders’ Conference 2026: the exciting launch of Reach British School Radio.

Nalini is joined by Kirsty Robertson, Head of Sixth Form, and Zain, a Year 12 student and members of the Reach British School Radio team, for an inside look at the story behind the station.

Broadcast to an audience spanning 46 countries, the launch at the BSME Annual School Leaders' Conference captured global attention, but the journey to get there was anything but simple.

Together, they explore what it really takes to build a school radio station from the ground up, the key considerations for schools looking to do the same, and the powerful impact student-led media can have across an entire school community.

On this episode of BSME Talks, Debra Forsyth, CEO of BSME, is joined by two outstanding members of our community: Rachel Higgins, Principal and CEO of GEMS Jumeirah Primary School, and Sean Sibley, Principal at Doha English Speaking School.

Amid ongoing uncertainty across the Middle East, many educators have found themselves asking a difficult question: whether to remain in the region or return home. Rachel and Sean share how they have supported staff who have chosen to stay, and how their recruitment and retention strategies have adapted this academic year.

They explore the shift in staff sentiment since the onset of the conflict, and the realities of managing what has become their longest and most complex recruitment cycle to date.

From evolving “buddy” systems to leading with clear, confident communication, they offer practical, grounded insights into sustaining strong, connected school communities during times of uncertainty.

On this episode of BSME Talks, host Alexandra White, Digital Marketing and Design Lead at BSME, is joined by Laura Earnshaw, Founder and CEO of myHappymind, and Ruby Fiddes, Assistant Head Teacher at GEMS Founders School Al Mizhar, for an insightful discussion on student wellbeing.

Ruby reflects on the realities of returning to school, sharing how staff have navigated uncertainty while remaining grounded in their core training and professional instincts. She explores the importance of consistency in the classroom, the value of strong relationships, and the critical role that parents and the wider school community play in supporting student wellbeing.

Laura introduces her practical “4 B’s and 3 N’s” framework, offering guidance on what to notice in children’s behaviour and how to respond effectively. She discusses how children often communicate their needs non-verbally, and why understanding this is key to supporting their emotional development. 

The conversation also highlights the importance of prioritising teacher wellbeing, recognising the impact that adult emotions can have on students, and shares strategies to help regulate a child’s nervous system.

Together, they provide a thoughtful and practical exploration of how schools can create supportive environments where both students, staff and the wider school community can thrive.

In this episode of BSME Talks, we explore Staff Wellbeing During Times of Crisis. Host Kirsty Crosby, Professional Learning Lead at BSME, is joined by Sofiah Shakeel, Early Years Student Wellbeing Coordinator at Repton Dubai and BSME Wellbeing Network Lead, and Ilia Lindsay, Head of Psychology at Komodo Wellbeing, for a timely and thoughtful conversation on supporting staff through uncertainty.

Sofiah shares her first-hand experience of navigating recent challenges within a school community, reflecting on the transition between online and in-person learning, and how this period compares to the COVID-19 pandemic. She offers practical insights into how Repton Dubai is preparing students for a return to school, alongside the strategies she has personally adopted to maintain a sense of normality during disruption.

Ilia brings a wellbeing specialist’s perspective, exploring how leaders and colleagues can recognise when someone may be struggling, whether through changes in behaviour, increased withdrawal, or over-engagement in work. She discusses practical ways to approach these situations with care, reduce additional pressures, and create environments where asking for help feels accessible and supported.

Together, this episode provides honest reflections, actionable advice, and reassurance for educators working to prioritise staff wellbeing during challenging times.

In this episode of BSME Talks, Nalini sits down with Giles Pruett, Executive Principal of Arcadia British School and BSME Executive Committee member, for a candid, behind-the-scenes look at leading a school through one of the most fluid periods in education - just as UAE schools prepare to return to in-person learning on Monday, 20th April.

From navigating fluctuating student engagement to tackling the big questions around exams, Giles shares the real decisions, dilemmas, and innovations that have shaped online learning (both as a school leader and as a parent) and what they mean for the transition back to the classroom.

But it’s not just about challenges. Together, they explore how schools are reimagining the student experience; from keeping communities connected to finding creative ways to bring practical and sporting activities back to life.

Honest, insightful, and full of actionable ideas, this episode is a powerful reminder of the impact educators can have when it matters most.

On this episode of BSME Talks, Nalini is joined by Tom Duckling, Headmaster of Dubai College, revisiting his fantastic workshop at this year's BSME Annual School Leaders' Conference - but through the lens of today's regional uncertainty.

What is the true purpose of school—and does it change in times of crisis?

From the power of phronesis (practical wisdom) to the contagious nature of kindness, Tom explores how empathy, curriculum design, and a focus on human flourishing can shape not just better students, but better people. The conversation also touches on the relevance of stoicism, the ethical challenges of generative AI, and why we shouldn’t shy away from the struggle of learning.

A thoughtful listen for educators navigating complexity with purpose.

In light of the ongoing regional instability, we hope first and foremost that you, your families, and your school communities remain safe.

The strength of BSME lies in our collective resilience. It has been inspiring to see school leaders, teachers, and partners already mobilising to share best practices and free resources. 

Debra Forsyth, CEO of BSME, provides an overview of the steps the BSME Community has been taking over the past few days, as well as an update on the status of upcoming BSME Events.

The BSME Team are here to support the entirety of our community and we have established a dedicated email for all urgent enquiries: [email protected]

On this episode of BSME Talks, Debra is joined by Emily Konstantas, Founder & CEO of The Safeguarding Alliance.

Safeguarding is integral to operations here at BSME and so it's wonderful to sit with Emily and hear about the ever-growing integration of comprehensive safeguarding practices in the region - and beyond!

The pair cover the British International Schools Safeguarding Coalition and look at the collaborative work they are doing to ensure there is a global shift in attitudes towards safeguarding. With the organisations representing BISSC covering 1000 schools and over half a million students, their work has never been more important.

Emily shares the long-term plans of BISSC but also covers the more immediate, actionable steps schools can take now to elevate their safeguarding practices. 

We're reminded that sitting in silos to manage safeguarding is ineffective and counterproductive. Emily, The Safeguarding Alliance and BISSC are creating a more collaborative future that ensures no child is overlooked. 

Welcome to BSME Talks - Why This Podcast, and Why Now

In our very first episode, Nalini Cook (COO, BSME) and Debra Forsyth (CEO, BSME) introduce BSME Talks, a podcast dedicated to showcasing the unique experiences, insights, and innovations of educators in international schools across the Middle East.

We explore why this podcast was created, what listeners can expect from future episodes, and how BSME Talks aims to be a platform for the entire international education community—from newly qualified teachers considering their first overseas posting, to experienced educators returning to the UK, and everyone in between.

Nalini and Debra discuss the vision behind the podcast, highlight key themes such as safeguarding, wellbeing, leadership, curriculum innovation, cultural adaptation, and career pathways, and share a sneak peek of what’s coming in Term 2, including Deep Dive episodes and inspiring educator stories.

Finally, they explain how you can get involved—whether it’s sharing your own experiences, suggesting topics, nominating potential guests, or engaging with the conversation on social media.

Subscribe to BSME Talks wherever you get your podcasts, and join us for real conversations that matter in international education.