Coaching in Education Podcast Series

What happens when coaching moves from being an initiative to becoming part of the fabric of a school? Around 18 months ago, we spoke to Russell Bennett and Steve Fantom from St Joseph's Institution International School in Singapore about their journey towards developing a coaching culture. In this revisit episode, we explore what has happened since. We talk about creating protected time for coaching, changing funding structures, developing new roles, the connection between coaching and Lasallian accompaniment and their ambition to develop SJI as a coaching school that could support others. Along the way, Russell and Steve share some honest reflections on what they have learned about creating the conditions in which coaching can genuinely flourish.

If you want to reach out to SJI for further information contact Russell at [email protected]

The insights Richard and Dan share in this episode remind us that the simplicity of a well-phrased question can have profound effects on the coaching process. By refining our questioning techniques, we not only enhance our coaching practice but also contribute to the development of those we support. As you move forward, consider how the questions you ask can shape your interactions and foster deeper connections. Listen to or watch the full episode for more.

In the ever-evolving landscape of coaching in education, the integration of video technology has emerged as a game-changer. But why does it matter? In this latest CoachED Conversation, hosts Dan Steele and Richard Reid explore the transformative power of video, particularly in coaching contexts and how it can enhance self-reflection, improve teaching and ultimately boost student outcomes in the classroom.

Join Dan Steele and Richard Reid in this latest CoachED Conversation episode where they wrestle with how to respond to the challenge of when a coachee gets completely stuck! We all know we need to avoid what Michael Bungay Stanier calls the 'Advice Monster' but how do we do that in the moment, when we are face to face with our coachee. And if we do have to consider sharing our own perspective(s) how do we do this in a way that keeps the coachee in the driving seat and still doing all the thinking?

In this latest episode our hosts Richard Reid and Dan Steele dive into how questions can impact motivation in our coaching conversations. Specifically, when coaches help teachers see the connection between their actions and student outcomes, it not only clarifies the purpose of their efforts but also enhances their commitment to achieving those goals. By asking the right questions, coaches can help teachers focus on what truly matters, improving student outcomes. For more insights on coaching practices, check out our previous episodes on goal setting and building rapport in coaching conversations.

Welcome to the latest episode of the CoachED Conversations podcast series.

In this episode, hosts Richard Reid and Dan Steele delve deep into the art of building coaching cultures in educational settings. As the academic year begins in many countries, this timely discussion sheds light on the significance of fostering an environment where coaching thrives.

Join Richard and Dan as they explore essential strategies and insights to enhance your coaching practices.

Helpful resources mentioned in this episode:

• Ron Ritchart's Cultures of Thinking
• GCI Insights Magazine - November 2023

In this episode of the Coaching in Education Podcast, we continue our Stories from the Coaches series with a conversation about new beginnings.

Following our recent reflective episode with Penny Verdich as she approaches retirement, this episode turns toward the future, introducing two of Growth Coaching International's newest Senior Consultants: Dean Clayden in Shanghai and Sarah Cole in Singapore.

Together, we explore the journeys that brought Dean and Sarah into coaching from their early careers in teaching and leadership, to the moments that shaped their coaching practice and philosophy. They share what they've learned about building trust, supporting wellbeing and creating coaching-informed cultures in diverse, international education settings.

Dean reflects on his research into positive psychology coaching and teacher wellbeing, including insights from his work Start with the Heart, while Sarah speaks about designing learning experiences that are grounded in curiosity, care and real-world application. This conversation is less about roles and titles and more about values, purpose and the human side of coaching. It offers thoughtful reflections on what coaching can make possible for educators, leaders and school communities and what Dean and Sarah hope to contribute as they begin this next chapter of their work with GCI.

Whether you're a coach, a school leader, or simply curious about the power of meaningful conversations in education, this episode invites you to pause, reflect and consider what it means to lead and coach with intention.

We're excited to introduce CoachED Conversations, a brand-new podcast series designed to bring timely, practical insights straight to our coaching community.

Hosted by Richard Reid and Dan Steele, each monthly episode will explore a focused topic, giving you insights and ideas, along with some strategies and next steps to support your coaching practice straight away.

This inaugural episode kicks off with Goal Setting - a powerful and timely focus for the beginning of 2026 as coaches and educators look to the year ahead.

In this heartfelt Stories from the Coaches episode of the Coaching in Education podcast, Richard Reid speaks with Penny Verdich — a highly respected educator, principal, coach, and Senior Consultant with Growth Coaching International. With more than four decades of leadership experience in NSW schools, Penny shares the key moments that shaped her coaching journey, her passion for professional learning and the profound impact she has had on school and system leaders across the state. As she prepares for retirement, Penny offers wisdom, insights and inspiration for everyone invested in developing leadership capacity and fostering meaningful professional conversations. A warm celebration of a career dedicated to helping others grow.

In this episode of the Coaching in Education Podcast, host Richard Reid is joined by Brett Horton (Head of School Performance), Trudi Lucas (Head of Future Education Initiatives) from Brisbane Catholic Education and Dr. Jim Knight from the Instructional Coaching Group. Together, they explore BCE's bold vision for system-wide improvement, the power of partnership and how instructional coaching is being embedded across more than 140 schools to strengthen teaching, leadership and learning outcomes. Discover how BCE is shaping a culture of growth and collaboration and why coaching is at the heart of their journey toward better outcomes for every student.