Evolving Wisdom: Diary of an Innovative Educator

 I am pursuing the National Professional Qualification for Executive Leadership (NPQEL) in the UK, further solidifying my position in global education. 

I am focussing on leadership skills, strategic thinking, decision-making, and management in education.

Bachelors (Hons) in Business Education with IT with QTS, Brighton University, Brighton, UK

Qualified NLP Practitioner (Master) and Life Coach, Paul McKenna & Richard Bandler, London, UK

Qualified Hypnotherapist, Paul McKenna & Richard Bandler, London, UK

As a teacher and consultant with Cambridge University Press, I have worked in the UK, Romania, India, Kazakhstan, China, and Thailand over the past 26 years.

I am a dynamic educational leader who has left an indelible mark on international education, with a career spanning countries like China, Thailand, Kazakhstan, India, and Romania. Currently serving as the Academic Dean at Hanvos Yucai High School International Education Center in Cixi, China, I champion student well-being and academic excellence while advising on marketing strategies. My leadership role at Nanwai King's College School in Wuxi, China, and Harrow International Beijing showcased my dedication to curriculum development, staff empowerment, and innovative teaching methodologies. A dedicated learner, His technical proficiency, programming skills, and commitment to nurturing inclusive educational settings make him a remarkable force in the field.

A highly skilled educational leader with a focus on growth

I provided advice to schools regarding their marketing practices and promotional merchandise

Expertise in student-centric instruction and practical learning pedagogies

Proficient in educational leadership, curriculum development, project management, and stakeholder engagement

Subject matter expert in teaching approaches for improved educational performance and fostering inclusivity

Strong skills in team leadership, mentoring, and cross-functional collaboration

Experienced in performance management, KPIs execution and reviews, reporting, and documentation

Adept at relationship-building

With 26 years of experience teaching computer science, I've honed my skills in both Apple and Windows systems and various software. I achieved a significant milestone in 2021, becoming a Certified Microsoft Innovative Educator, and I am working towards becoming an Apple Distinguished Educator. My experience extends to teaching all critical stages of adult education and providing continuing professional development (CPD) for teachers using Apple and Microsoft technologies. My international experience includes working in India, where I supported school server management and collaborated with external vendors, always aiming to align technology initiatives with national standards and budget considerations. In addition, I have led strategic digital overhauls in schools, focusing on the safe and balanced use of technology, including the introduction of iPads and the development of policies.

Innovation has been a constant in my career, from revitalising outdated tech infrastructure at Harrow by setting up a new computer suite to integrating software solutions that boost educational outcomes. My efforts have spanned from enhancing school-wide technological needs to implementing intelligent classroom technologies. I have worked diligently to ensure seamless ICT integration across educational stages and have been at the forefront of adopting technologies that enhance education and school promotion. Part of my work has included developing comprehensive digital strategies, focusing on inclusivity, and championing student-centred digital approaches. My role has also explored cutting-edge tech solutions, improved staff tech skills, and boosted the school's digital presence. The introduction of innovative learning programs and the promotion of lifelong tech learning for staff have been high on my agenda, ensuring that we stay at the forefront of educational technology and provide the best learning tools for all students, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

I grew up in Newbury, Berkshire; in my free time, I enjoy computing and using various applications, along with the company of my two chocolate Labradors, Maggie May and Gabriella, and a black cat named BB—all of whom I rescued during my time in China. NLP and self-development are also interests of mine. Whenever I can, I like to cook up some classic English dishes. I'm a fan of films and TV shows, especially those from South Korea and Japan, with a particular fondness for sci-fi, dramas, and documentaries.

I have an intriguing and international background shaped by the diverse cultures of my parents. My mother was English, and my father was Czech. Their adventurous spirit led them on a journey from Australia to Czechoslovakia to visit my dad's parents. During this voyage aboard a ship, I made my unexpected entrance into the world. Born one month early in the Bay of Naples, Italy, on the 1st of November 1966, I weighed just 1lb 14oz. 

After spending the first four months of my life in Italy, my family moved to Czechoslovakia. Those initial years, immersed in Czech culture, were formative and exciting. However, our journey was far from over. We eventually relocated to the UK, settling in Southampton and then to London. It was here that my sister was born. 

Life took a turn when my parents divorced. My mother, brother, sister, and I moved to Newbury. Here, my mother remarried, and we welcomed my second brother into our family. 

Growing up in such a diverse environment influenced my career path significantly. Initially, I ventured into retail, becoming a retail manager. This role presented its own set of exciting and challenging experiences. But deep down, I always harboured a dream – to educate and empower others. 

Fuelled by this passion, I decided to leap. I became an educator, but I didn't stop there. I also trained as a Master NLP Practitioner and Life Coach. This path has allowed me to blend my diverse experiences and cultural insights, using them to inspire and guide others in their personal and professional lives. My journey from a premature baby on a ship to a life coach and educator has been extraordinary.

Once upon a time, a sleek black cat named BB lived in a cosy little town. BB was a proud, independent 7-year-old who enjoyed his quiet life, basking in the sun and chasing the occasional butterfly. However, BB’s life was about to change most unexpectedly.

BB was lounging on his favourite window sill one sunny afternoon when he heard a commotion in the backyard. Curious, he strolled out to investigate and saw a sight that made his whiskers twitch in disbelief. Tumbling in the grass, there were two chocolate Labrador puppies, Maggie May and Gabriella, their tails wagging furiously.

BB’s first instinct was to retreat to his peaceful solitude, but something about these puppies piqued his interest. With her boundless energy, Maggie May was the first to notice BB and bounded over with a goofy grin. Gabriella, a bit more reserved but equally enthusiastic, followed suit. BB, unsure what to make of these clumsy, joyful creatures, arched his back slightly but stayed put.

Over the next few days, BB watched the puppies from a distance. He observed their playful antics, their clumsy attempts at fetch, and their endearing way of falling asleep in a tangled heap. Slowly, his curiosity turned into fascination and fascination into affection.

BB began to join the puppies in their games, showing them the art of the pounce and the thrill of the chase. Maggie May and Gabriella, in turn, introduced BB to the joy of belly rubs and the fun of chasing a tennis ball. The trio became inseparable, each day bringing a new adventure and a new game to play.

As the puppies grew, so did their bond with BB. They became a family, with BB as the wise older brother, always ready with a playful swat or a comforting purr. The once solitary cat found joy in his new role, and the puppies looked up to him with adoration and respect.

BB’s life had changed in ways he never imagined. He had found a new purpose, joy, and, most importantly, a new family. And as he sat there, watching Maggie May and Gabriella chase their tails in the garden, a contented purr resonated from his chest, and a smile seemed to play on his whiskers. BB, the lone black cat, had found his place in the world, and it was right there, with two chocolate Labradors by his side.