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In this podcast episode, we talk with Dr. Steffen Sommer, Director General of Misk Schools in Saudi Arabia, about his journey from working in the automotive industry to leading in education in the Middle East. 

He shares his experience with Misk Schools, a project initiated by the Saudi Crown Prince to combine international educational standards with Saudi cultural values. Dr. Sommer discusses his career shift, the role of multilingual education, and the strategies used to prepare Saudi students for global engagement.

We also look into the development of what makes Misk Schools unique and the Crown Prince's vision for the school's role in Saudi Arabia's development. This institution aims to support Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 by providing high-quality education. We discuss the importance of investing in education and the decisions that help shape future leaders and innovators.

Finally, Dr. Sommer discusses combining traditional Saudi teaching methods with international expertise. He highlights the efforts to train a new generation of educators and the importance of adaptable leadership in a culturally diverse environment. This episode is for anyone interested in educational innovation and leadership, particularly in the Middle East's evolving educational landscape.

Connect with Dr Steffen Sommer here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steffen-sommer-1568b816/

Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need, to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools.

Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast.

Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast

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Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson

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Join Jenny Mollon in this podcast episode as we examine classroom design and how it can improve student engagement. We also discuss the impact of layout and atmosphere on learning and emotional well-being and the transformation of classrooms from traditional learning environments to spaces that develop adaptable skills for future careers.

Jenny provides insights into creating environments that support both individual concentration and group collaboration, helping students feel connected and focused.

Listen in as we explore how to maximise every part of a school, including halls and libraries, to enhance learning and community involvement. 

Connect with Jenny here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferfmollon/

Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need, to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools.

Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast.

Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/.

Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson

Connect with Leisa Grace:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

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Have you ever wondered if smaller class sizes always translate to better learning? In this episode, we challenge that assumption with our guest, Prof Dr Ger Graus OBE, a seasoned educator and educational advisor. Ger brings a wealth of experience from traditional and non-traditional learning environments, and he's here to shed light on the benefits of larger classrooms.

This episode goes beyond the simple notion of "less is more." We'll explore the value of diverse learning dynamics and how quality teaching can truly shine, regardless of class size. Ger will reveal the dynamic interplay that happens when students learn from each other and how a larger classroom environment can actually offer a richer palette of interactive and collaborative opportunities. We'll also tackle the stigma associated with labelling in small classrooms and emphasize the importance of cultivating exceptional teachers who can steer education towards a brighter future.

But this episode doesn't stop at the present. We'll also take an inspired look ahead with Prof Dr Ger Graus. Get ready to explore his vision of a future where schools transcend their traditional roles. We'll delve into the potential of AI, the exciting possibilities of integrating students' digital fluency, and how these advancements can level the educational playing field. Join us as we embark on a journey to reimagine the boundaries of what schools can achieve and harness technology to create a more equitable and awe-inspiring education system for all.

Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need, to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools.

Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast.

Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/.

Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson

Connect with Leisa Grace:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

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Join us as we get to know Chandini Misra, the principal of Repton Al-Barsha, and hear about her journey from India to leading a school in Dubai. Starting as a science lover and becoming a journalist, Chandini eventually found her calling in education. Her story shows how following your passion can lead to making a real difference in students' lives.

In this episode, we also dive into our shared interests in podcasts, music, and food. We explore Dubai's food scene, talk about our cooking adventures, and how these experiences connect us to our roots. These conversations highlight how different hobbies and interests can influence who we are.

We also discuss the value of time, especially in family life and raising children. Chandini shares her insights on being a genuine leader, aligning personal values with professional goals, and finding satisfaction in her work. We look forward to the new chapter for Repton's sixth form and the future it holds for its students, all while appreciating the strong connections between teachers and students. Tune in to this episode for a down-to-earth chat that will make you think about your journey and your impact on others.

Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need, to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools.

Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast.

Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/.

Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson

Connect with Leisa Grace:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

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Grab a cup of your favourite beverage and join us for a heartfelt conversation with Hannah Wilson, the inspiring mind behind DiverseEd. This episode is tailor-made for school leaders eager to navigate the complexities of educational leadership with authenticity and resilience.

Hannah opens up about the power of inclusivity, the journey from WomenEd to DiverseEd, and the critical role of staff well-being in fostering a thriving school environment. We'll share strategies for embracing feedback constructively, balancing leadership demands with personal well-being, and building a supportive community that celebrates every individual's unique contributions. 

This discussion is not just about ideas; it's about actionable steps you can take to enhance your leadership journey and positively impact your educational community. 

Tune in to discover how to lead authentically and inspire those around you to do the same.

Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need, to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools.

Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast.

Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/.

Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson

Connect with Leisa Grace:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

Send us a text

Every educator has a story, but few are as riveting as the narrative Matthew Burfield, Principal of GEMS Founders School, Dubai, and Senior Vice President of GEMS Education, shares with us. From his humble beginnings in Norfolk to the corridors of leadership in one of Dubai's most prestigious schools, Matthew's journey is a testament to resilience and vision. As he unveils the layers of his professional ascent and the driving force of his mother's influence, we explore the intersection of personal growth and career milestones. This episode isn't just a look into the life of a top educator; it's an inspiration for anyone who's ever aspired to transform passion into purpose.

Peeling back the layers of traditionally stoic masculinity, this exchange with Matthew turns the spotlight on vulnerability, self-awareness, mental health, and the constructs that shape our understanding of strength. Delving into the transformative power of acknowledging one's struggles and seeking support, we discuss how holding space for hobbies and personal wellness can be revolutionary. Matthew's candid sharing about his affinity for comic book collecting and the importance of self-care crafts a new narrative for male leaders, showing that true strength lies in authenticity and emotional intelligence. Join us for an episode that's as much about the heart as it is about the head, illuminating the essence of what makes educational leadership truly impactful.

Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need, to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools.

Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast.

Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/.

Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson

Connect with Leisa Grace:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

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This enlightening episode explores Nargish Khambatta's remarkable journey from a quaint Indian town to leading Dubai's Gems Modern Academy. Her deep-rooted passion for learning and dedicated pursuit of 'Ikigai' – where profession meets passion – forms the crux of our conversation. Nargish shares her experiences of adapting to life in Dubai, her rise to educational leadership, and the guiding principles of her educational philosophy.

Delving into her personal life, she reveals how yoga, beach walks, and family intertwine with her professional responsibilities, emphasising the harmony between personal well-being and professional ambition. Nargish also discusses the importance of emotional intelligence in children's development and the need for a slower pace in our fast-moving world.

The episode also touches upon the integration of traditional teaching methods with modern technology, highlighting her vision for a future where education is joyful, personalised, and centres on student happiness. Join us for this intimate look into the heart of a visionary educator's world.

Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need, to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools.

Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast.

Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/.

Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson

Connect with Leisa Grace:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

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From the windswept moors of Yorkshire to the sun-kissed sands of Dubai, Mark Ford's journey as a principal is as extraordinary as it is enlightening. Please pull up a chair alongside Leisa Grace as we traverse Mark's fascinating voyage through the world of education and leadership in our Behind the Principal's Desk series. 

His story is filled with insights on how education is flourishing in the Middle East and peppered with tales of his own competitive spirit that once aimed for tennis stardom and rocked the music scene.

Feel the heartbeat of the English College, Dubai, where confidence blooms and community ties are as strong as the desert sun is bright. In our candid discussion, we uncover the secret ingredients that craft such a vibrant educational culture. 

This episode is a mosaic of inspiration, gratitude, and the heartfelt community spirit that defines the English College. Join us and see what sets our haven of education apart in the bustling city of Dubai.

Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need, to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools.

Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast.

Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/.

Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson

Connect with Leisa Grace:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

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This episode is an invitation to educators to question the status quo and envision a schooling experience that embraces competency-based learning, dismisses outdated structures, and designs spaces that inspire creativity and cater to student preferences. Eric doesn't shy away from the tough questions about the reality of our educational practices and the need for vulnerability and frankness in assessing and serving the needs of our students.

Bio: Eric works with schools throughout the world, helping educators meet and exceed their potential to improve outcomes for learners. He is the founder and CEO of Aspire Change EDU, a collaborative consultancy designed to provide personalized support to all educational systems. Prior to this, he was a teacher and the award-winning Principal at New Milford High School. Under his leadership, his school became a globally recognized model for innovative practices. Eric oversaw the successful implementation of several sustainable change initiatives that radically transformed the learning culture at his school while increasing achievement.

His work focuses on innovative and practical ways educators can transform teaching, learning, and leadership. Through his work with thousands of schools, Eric has emerged as an innovative leader, best-selling author, and sought-after speaker. His main focus is using research and evidence-based practices to empower learners and educators. See where Eric is speaking and if he will be in your area at the bottom of this page. For booking inquiries, email him directly at [email protected].

Join us and be part of reimagining education for a future where learning knows no bounds.

Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need, to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools.

Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast.

Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/.

Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson

Connect with Leisa Grace:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/

Send us a text

Have you ever felt like math was an insurmountable mountain, no matter how hard you tried to scale it? Vibeke Gwendoline Fængsrud, masterful mathematician and educator, joins us on the Teach Middle East Podcast to recount her incredible transformation from math struggler to passionate teacher and how she now helps others conquer their maths fears. Through our engaging conversation, we dissect the critical importance of a solid mathematical foundation, pinpointing the common setbacks caused by overlooked learning gaps. Vibeke's approach to prioritising diligence in homework is not just about getting it done, but mastering it deeply, a lesson that resonates far beyond the mathematics classroom. She underscores the remarkable dedication required by teachers to adapt their methods to a spectrum of student needs, shining a light on the heroes behind the scenes of education.

As we navigate the evolving terrain of artificial intelligence, its encroachment into the realm of education beckons a discussion on the fate of human jobs and the vital, unchanging significance of literacy and numeracy. We address the growing gap that AI might forge between the tech-savvy and the less informed and the pressing need to prevent a societal split. Delving into the heart of teaching, we celebrate the human qualities of empathy and care that AI has yet to mimic, recognizing these elements as the lifeblood of education. Join us for this thought-provoking session that intertwines the narrative of personal triumph with the broader implications of AI in our lives.

Connect with Vibeke here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vibeke-gwendoline-f%C3%A6ngsrud-4812015a/

Teach Middle East Magazine is the premier platform for educators and the entire education sector in the Middle East and beyond. Our vision is to equip educators with the materials and tools they need, to function optimally in and out of the classroom. We provide a space for educators to connect and find inspiration, resources, and forums to enhance their teaching techniques, methodologies, and personal development. We connect education suppliers and service providers to the people who make the buying decisions in schools.

Visit our website https://linktr.ee/teachmiddleeast.

Tweet us: https://twitter.com/teachmiddleeast

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachmiddleeast/.

Hosted by Leisa Grace Wilson

Connect with Leisa Grace:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/leisagrace

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisagrace/