Praise Pod

Pocket Praise Pod coming very soon

2011-12-16T00:06:00.000-08:00

Pocket Praise Pod

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Hello Hong Kong!

2011-07-20T11:03:00.000-07:00

Jasmine and Girisa's PRAISE POD from kjsmovie on Vimeo.

Well done Jasmine and Girisa and a big thanks to your teachers for setting up Praise Pod in your school. There is something universally wonderful about children's laughter. Genuine praise brings such happiness.

Attention! Prevention!

2011-05-31T06:15:00.000-07:00

Nice one Dr. Lockey. Resus training at schools has got to make sense.
Click here for a link for more info.

Keep up the good work Andrew.

Thanks Allan

2011-02-24T04:46:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Allan Pearcey for taking the time to comment on Sheffield Wednesday fans support at the Birmingham FA cup tie. Here's SWFC's official acknowledgement

After a 3-0 defeat and a bad run of form it's good to feel proud of something. Just like the child in school who gets recognised for their loyalty despite not being the best academically. These things really matter. Ofsted might have their league tables, as the F.A. do, but there are many realities to life on the terraces and in schools that, in many ways matter far more. Just ask any fan of either Sheffield football team and they'll roll out fact after fact about average attendances and who's got the best set of fans.

Worth watching before any curriculum planning meeting

2011-01-16T05:28:00.000-08:00

It's in the detail. . .

2011-01-11T14:00:00.000-08:00

Here are the 'Praisepodians' from Grange Primary School. We were talking about the ingredients that make a Praise Pod area feel right; lighting, warmth and warmth (one about temperature, the other about a feeling) It became clear that an amazing amount of care had gone into getting the lighting just right. A combination of daylight, diffused by drawn blinds, combined with particular ceiling lighting created a perfect feel and avoided any glare or pixelation by the Macbook's webcam.

We instinctively know when a learning space feels right and the Praisepodians help remind us that time spent on the detail is as important as the big picture stuff. A fab team and available at very reasonable consultancy rates for any schools deliberating lighting solutions for their Praise Pod space. . .

Secret Santa and the art of knowing

2010-12-19T12:47:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful thing it is to be able to buy a gift for someone that tells that person they are understood. And so it was this year as secret santa bought me a copy of 'The Spirit Level' by Richard Wilkinson and kate Pickett. Big thanks to whoever the real santa was.

As the book explores issues of trust, health, social capital and much more related to inequality, it makes such sense that beyond fairly basic needs it's about time we looked in the mirror and were honest about what makes a healthy society. I made a Christmas wish list the other day; cameras with more megapixels, faster lenses etc. The usual list. Then I took a peek in my camera bag and knew instantly that I already had enough kit to take good pictures. The post purchase dissonance had already set in and I hadn't even had the pleasure of unwrapping anything.

Now the thought of making a donation to something like Toby Tanser's inspirational Shoe 4 Africa charity, and helping in some small way change lives and build the first children's hospital in Kenya; that already makes me happy. As does donating to the Barnsley Youth Choir who help so many young people to find their voice.

Personal acts of giving, local or international; it all adds up and collectively builds trust and a climate of togetherness. Here's to every project that works towards these ends in 2011

"Once a man be done with hunger, rich and poor are all as one" - Euripides, Electra (p3 The Spirit Level)

Oakfield House make praise pod part of school life

2010-11-21T10:03:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Oakfield House staff and students in setting up praise pod to support the positive culture that is so important to students. Often it is these small schools that lead the way in the soft skills that every school, however large, need to get right.

True as it may be that smaller specialist schools have higher staffing ratios, it is also true to say that larger schools have a more mature ICT infrastructure. . . how many schools use their parent text systems to share positive achievements and not just absences? In these times of austerity the challenge is to make better use of the tools we already have.

Architects of learning

2010-11-21T09:51:00.000-08:00

A huge thank you to Sheffield University school of architecture's 'Voice group' for their amazing work with the peer mentors at Arbourthorne Community Primary School.
We spent six wonderful weeks learning together and connecting around the school's eight core values. Some things are hard to put into words, but needless to say the legacy has only just begun to take shape. One outcome has been a reminder of the amazing things that happen when students at various stages in their formal education collaborate as equal partners.
Click here for the project blog.

A time for creativity

2010-10-04T15:43:00.000-07:00

Party politics aside, these are times when we need to work together to create a culture where potentially flawed ideas are encouraged. We need the contribution of our oldest and wisest people alongside that of our youngest and least tainted members of society. And of everyone else in the continuum.
I'm yet to hear a child fail to offer an idea to solve today's problems on the grounds that it's not their problem; they didn't cause it. . .
And at the other end of the lifespan much the same is true, only with a very different perspective.
So let's make our schools the kind of places where honesty, respect, openness and a true sense of togetherness helps shape a better future.

Stairway to heaven

2010-09-10T13:27:00.000-07:00

Nice idea from Newfield school in Sheffield. Thanks you as you ascend through the lovely spaces of the new building. Rachel Bridge referred last night to an entrepreneur who made a fortune from advertising on the back of toilet doors. . . Great to see positive messages occupying valuable real estate in our schools.

Shine without polish

2010-07-06T15:41:00.000-07:00

So after promising to upload young people's work onto the Shine 2010 website and get involved in celebrating the talents of our children, I receive a message today notifying me that the DfE has withdrawn funding so no website, no upload, and no home access for parents to see their child's work.

Which begs the question, How to shine without polish? I guess we've all got used to 'free' web-based services and organisations supporting our work through gov't funding. But times have changed. One day there's a site to upload to; the next day it's gone.

I try to be optimistic and look for the positive in most situations, and am reminded of the old 'necessity is the mother of all invention' line. Sounds good but many inventions come out of expensive R & D labs, so there might be a rose tint to that one. . .

Nevertheless, there could be some potential here for a real change in behaviour where at last young people are encourage to become creators not only of content but of the hosting technology itself. The drive to shine a finished product can overcome the absence of on off-the-shelf solution. By experimenting and asking around we can generally find the key components and move from dependent consumer to empowered producer/hoster.

Back to basics

2010-05-29T04:12:00.000-07:00

Here's Mr. Gelsthorpe stood by the lovely praise pod at Marlcliffe Primary School. The space theme was chosen by pupils, animated letters on wire the idea of a wonderful teaching assistant, and all-in-all a brilliant team effort.

And this in a week when I hear of governors elsewhere saying 'We have enough praise already in school' in response to a new praise initiative. . . makes me wonder why we bother to commission reports such as Lord Elton's and Sir Alan Steer. For the last ten years the consistent message is one of a 5:1 ratio of praise and rewards to sanctions.

Sometimes words fail me, and I have to look to other references to remind myself of the basics. Invariably these references come from early relationships:

Take a look at an infant held in their parent's arms and count how many positive words of praise and encouragement are spoken. . . probably dozens in a very short space of time. Now try telling this parent that they need to curb their instinct and see their reaction; "I think you've told your baby they are beautiful too many times now. You need to stop."

And if it doesn't feel good to praise children? I guess that's a whole new post.

Behaviour change lag

2010-05-14T10:55:00.000-07:00

Okay, so who's been looking at these pictures and thought something along the lines of,
"Oh yeh, just wait till the first real test. Then we'll see if they can get on so well. . . "

And isn't this so often our reaction when a child manages to change their ways. Many sceptics just sit back and wait for 'The real Johnny' to re-emerge, and then smugly tell you, "See. Told you it wouldn't last!"

Seems getting on is the new falling out. Where will all this end up I wonder?

Dedication and then some

2010-04-27T13:11:00.000-07:00

Now the dust has settled after Manchester's TSL Education North exhibition I'm reflecting back to the Saturday in particular when so many teachers, students and parents took it upon themselves, in their own time, to find new resources and ideas to make school that bit more engaging and exciting for pupils.

This level of dedication really should be recognised: it's hard to imagine another profession filling such a massive exhibition hall on a Saturday simply out of the love for the job, and the desire to make a difference. We had some lovely conversations with visitors to the Praise Pod stand about the importance of recognising achievements, and not only for pupils. . .

Core Values for politics

2010-03-27T04:43:00.000-07:00

Having spent a lot of time this week in conversations with teachers about core values it seems timely to consider the political process. If the house of commons had a praise pod, (and why not) what would both sides of the house agree as keywords?

"I've been sent to the praise pod for listening carefully and keeping my ballot papers still until the speaker had finished."

So as schools work hard to encourage teamwork, sharing, co-operation and thinking about others through tons of labelled praise, what do we see in the house of commons. . . belittling of others' ideas, put-downs, insults, fault finding, and an endless and senseless focus on criticising opponents for no other reason than they are 'the opposition'

So here's a thought: let's give a school council the chair in a parliamentary debate, and set up some positive behaviour rules for both sides. Then let's see how much more creativity and problem-solving results.

Seems the principle of modeling needs revisiting. Anyone who works with children knows that without leading by example our words are meaningless.

Cross phase work

2010-03-04T11:48:00.000-08:00

Lovely to see pictures of Upper Shirley High students painting the praise pod backdrop for one of their feeder schools. USH's vertical tutor groups make this kind of activity so natural. . . why wouldn't you take care of younger pupils and help them look forward to what's going on at secondary school once you think of them as part of your family?

Here's to a time when 'transition work' is a concept from the olden days when schools were separate and did stuff to try to soften the edges. We have the tools now (and have always had the will) to move from transition to true togetherness.

I'm yet to meet a family that has separate sittings at tea-time based on their children's age. . .

Common Values

2010-02-26T13:54:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful morning at Arbourthorne Community Primary School. A group of staff from Sheffield primary schools chatting on-line with professor Stephen Heppell, finding common themes by sharing a global and local perspective, all topped off with a pupil speaking proudly about his maths work.

And was the young man in question phased by being live on videoconference? Far from it- he was quite ok with the whole thing and soon get into the content. The most lasting impression from this encounter was Stephen's model yacht. Which is what technology is all about: not getting in the way, but simply being there in the background to help people communicate:

Connection is about widening horizons and helping people see new possibilities. We're a long way from the sea here in Sheffield, but dare to dream and you can go anywhere. Did the sight of Stephen's model yacht spark an interest in sailing for life? Maybe, be even if not, that isn't the point. It has to be everyone's responsibility to give hope, confidence and encouragement to our children to dream big and wide and far. After all, it's our children's solutions to the problems that we don't yet know about that hold the key to OUR futures. . .

Digital Divide

2010-02-17T17:07:00.000-08:00

Postcode lottery is only the start of it. If we really are citizens of the world then let's do something each and every day to bridge a divide by forgoing wants for others' needs. £500 builds a whole school library in Namibia.

Food for thought. And with that thought come ideas and solutions to build from.
We are one planet, and it's only as one planet that we can create a better future.

Translation+

2010-01-13T11:29:00.000-08:00

Is the learning in the meaning, or the meaning in the learning?
As Hucklow Primary gear up to go live they have translated the school's positive values into some of the languages spoken in school. Here's the Urdu version.

And here's the interesting thing; as we start to discuss whether the Urdu translation has EXACTLY the same meaning as the english words we start to uncover hidden meaning, and hidden clues. 'Keeping Calm' translates more like 'keeping yourself in one part (not falling apart). With all the languages in the world, is there, I wonder a word that means EXACTLY the opposite of 'Bully'?

And if there is, then let's start spotting that behaviour and using the word.

All together

2010-01-07T15:16:00.000-08:00

I've just finished reading Malcolm Gladwell's 'Outliers'. The penultimate chapter shines a light on the importance of all year round learning. This means a 52 week calendar and active support for all children through those long periods out of school.

Gladwell cites test scores which show low income household children actually outperform their high income peers IN TERM but when the vacation comes they fall far behind. No more comfy academic years for school advisors and local authority consultants if we mean business. . . check out this link: http://www.gladwell.com/outliers/index.html

What became clear reading Outliers is the importance of someone having belief in you as a young person, and in them gently offering you experiences to develop abilities in subtle ways (such as the ability to express your needs in front of your GP) If only every child were afforded such a start in life. And that is exactly what Gladwell says is possible.

Who links here?

2009-11-30T09:03:00.000-08:00

backlinks widget

It's in the detail

2009-11-15T11:57:00.000-08:00

Hucklow Primary school are gearing up for a launch in the new year. Lots of love and care going into the process. Children have an uncanny ability to know when people around them really care. Parents, staff and school council all working together to make something special. Can't wait for January.

Leadership in action

2009-11-12T10:37:00.000-08:00

At last I get to see the wonderful Leadership academy pupils at Sheffield's Parkwood Academy in action. What a fabulous experience; peer-led activities throughout the school, pupils clearly respecting their peers and having a great time in the process.
'Living our values' gets a bit over-used these days as a phrase, but here for sure every one of the school's values were in evidence. Brilliant stuff.

Giving gets the thumbs up

2009-11-11T09:52:00.000-08:00

6th form students at Bishop Challoner college in Birmingham are loving being Praise Pod interviewers, and their demand for more sessions is testament to the positive spirit of the college, and their embracing of new ideas.

Big thanks to Sonya Thomas for playing an instrumental part in introducing something new, and to all the staff who have embraced this new technology to compliment the outstanding work of the college.

Not long ago there were only blackboards. Then a few brave educationalists tried out interactive whiteboards. Now they are the norm. As for stickers, come to Bishop Challoner and you'll get a glimpse of the future: a sticker that talks, and can be shared with family and friends.

Cor, what values!

2009-11-06T09:33:00.000-08:00

What an uplifting morning at Arbourthorne Primary school; the formal launch of eight core values which connect throughout the whole school community. An amazing assembly celebrated staff, pupils and parents alike, and all with an infectious energy that inspires dreams.
This is the school's main entrance, complete with wonderful display (and a perfect location for the praise pod)

Mind blowing power

2009-11-04T11:07:00.000-08:00

Now this might be a lot of nonsense, but somehow I doubt it. At a click of a button the Praise Pod website gets translated into any language - this one is in Hungarian. Now the question is, do we take it as given that the translation is accurate and not misleading. Just as we might take it as a given that a Google search (or any other search engine for that matter) generates an accurate result. . .

I'd worry if there wasn't an option to 'offer a better translation.' That's what open source collaboration is all about. If only more people saw it as their right (and even their duty) to contribute to an open source conversation. And not just about software development. This is about domocratisation of every subject; technical or not.

connect, connect,connect

2009-11-04T10:47:00.000-08:00

Was the BBC right to give Nick Griffin air time to voice his views?
Was he bullied by a non-representative panel?
Should we feel reassured by the free speech that we heard?
Or worry that it will fuel fires?

One thing is for sure; the more we connect with people who come from different backgrounds, or have different perspectives, the more we are able to find common ground, harmony and understanding.

I had the great pleasure of visiting Hucklow primary school today and hearing how they are forging links with a school in Karachi. Looking forward to hooking up praise pods in both schools to learn about life from another point of view.

Pen pals is still a lovely thing to get involved in, but why not harness Web 2.0 to connect and give children a real global perspective. Check here for one source of funding. . .

It's all about motivation

2009-11-04T09:50:00.001-08:00

It's antibullying week soon, and the focus is Cyber-bullying. So let's not lose sight of the fact that the vast majority of people use technology for good reasons. I'm not inserting 'young' before 'people' because let's face it, bullying is not just a youth issue.
I recently re-connected (via Facebook) with an old school friend by the name of Toby Tanser. 25 years has passed since we knew each other, and without the internet there's no reason why I'd have known what he was up to. Turns out he now runs 'Shoe4Africa.' They are raising funds for the first Childrens Teaching Hospital in Kenya. A few e-mails later and a proposal is ready to put something together in the UK to raise a shed load of cash for this great goal.
Without social networking tools this kind of thing would hardly be imaginable, but now all I can think about is squeezing the last ounce of connective power from the internet to help Toby make that particular dream a reality.
Yes, bad things happen in cyberspace, but many, many more good things happen, and fast! Which is important if you you live in Kenya and have a sick child. Check their website and get involved. Blatant plug? Absolutely!

Praise backlash

2009-10-01T12:21:00.000-07:00

Thankfully recent dabate is not about what size cane is the more effective but what constitutes meaningful praise versus fake, coercive forms. Alfie Kohn's examination of praise identifies golden rules for avoiding falling into invisible traps, and losing sight of what really matters.

If we need to consult to avoid any doubt then let's take more time to listen to children. They invariably know when someone is genuine, and will respond in kind. And let's not ever lose our sense of intuition; going with a gut feeling and doing what feels right. Yes, let's make sure we label the behaviour not the person etc, but let's not become too mechanical or forget the fact that positive attention is infinitely better than negative attention, or else a self-fullfilling prophecy might just knock on our doors.

Can't we just say 'well done!' and leave it there?

2009-08-28T08:38:00.000-07:00

It's that week again; exam results for thousands of hard working students across the country. And again the results have improved. So what's the problem with all this doubt and suspicion? A week earlier Usain Bolt ran the fastest ever 100m to universal acclaim. Where were the doubting voices- track must be returning more energy, shoes more elastic, timing equipment more audible. . .

Nowhere to be heard. The media simply sat back and said Wow! So why can't we do that for our young people. For everyone who's worked hard and got the results they deserve take yourself on a virtual trip to the praise pod (unless you have a real one in your school) and big yourself up. And well done Mr. Bolt. Breathtaking stuff.

Wheels within wheels

2009-08-27T16:33:00.000-07:00

Can't help referring back to a previous entry and Richard Villa's mention of the Lakota circle of courage- pre-dating Every Child Matters (and Maslow for that matter) by many, many years this model would be hard to match as a template to drive social and emotional aspects of learning, not to mention a as a tool to reverse the materialism, social divide and decline in mental wellbeing in some of the world's most prosperous nations.

The benefit of Foresight

2009-08-27T16:21:00.000-07:00

Big thanks to Dr Catherine Wright for bringing this research to my attention- like a 3-D Every Child Matters, and schematics that leave no stone unturned. I can't imagine a better model to give permission for so many people to do what they have always known in their hearts makes sense, and makes a difference. From housing to husbands, from diet to dreams; it's all there in the mix.

Too often policy is perceived as an elaborate 'out there' schema, yet more and more policy seems to be giving permission for individuals to take small, daily actions that will make a difference. And isn't it true; every time a child is acknowledged for a positive action the mean curve of human esteem is pushed just that little bit along in the right direction. Mass prevention impacting on minorities and majorities alike; by daily deeds and thoughts. . .

All you need is love

2009-06-21T16:03:00.000-07:00

There have been lots of conversations this week about what we, as educators, should be reinforcing in young people. Schools have their core values, mission statements and SEAL- derivations to help provide a framework. Then I watched This 18 minute film, and it stopped me in my tracks. Dames Gisimba concludes with his hope for education- teach love and irradicate hatred. Achieve this simple aim and the rest is a bonus.

The film focuses on Damas Gisimba, director of a small orphanage in Rwanda that was besieged by militias during the 1994 genocide. Learn how Gisimba, with the help of American aid worker Carl Wilkens, managed to protect, care for, and save some 400 people.

Dilemmas and positions

2009-06-05T12:19:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Hannah Frankel for putting together a very thought-provoking piece in today's TES on the topic of praise. 'Good For You' (on page 18 of the glossy) click here for the on-line article: why not add a comment. . .

Praise vs. Encouragement? Seems we are often thrown into adversarial positions when deep down we are all wanting similar things for young people.

For example I had a conversation today about restorative practice; I ended up posing the question,

"Which is more important, knowing how to listen to someone else's point of view or understanding about fractions. Maths v. PSHE; bring it on!

Of course there are valid arguments for both: lack of empathy can ultimately lead to warfare- ok, but having not a clue about fractions can lead to economic hardship and poverty. Has anyone seen those Buy As You View vans driving around housing estates?

A few years ago I was working with a family who had installed their coin-box operated system. I asked what the APR was- having explained what 'APR' meant I found it was rather high to say the least.

Today, with the Bank Of England Base Rate at an all time low the APR is . . . . . 49.9%

Here's the link to their site.

In a world where everyone understood what 49.9% APR really meant more people might have change left over to buy a book for bedtime to read to their child, or to put a good meal on the table. And then sit and have the stomach to listen to someone else's point of view.

So let's not talk about Maths v. PSHE any more. Let's find ways of working together and give full expression to all of our passions (be they for Maths, History, Sport or PSHE) to make education an intoxicating blend of content, challenge, warmth and humour.

“The driving mission of this new department is to break out of the false divide between, on the one hand, policies to promote educational achievement, and on the other hand, policies to promote well-being.” Ed Balls 2007.

maybe, together, we can make this happen?

Pass it on!

2009-05-24T12:46:00.000-07:00

Simply taking the time to pass on good news is priceless. It doesn't matter how; as long as we do.

I came across this post-it note in the middle of SATS week- a wonderful learning mentor taking the time to let a teaching colleague know about how well an ex-pupil is doing on reintegration to mainstream school.

What else do you see in schools that tells you there is a positive culture? Have a look at the new praise pod site and join the forum. This is a behavioural action plan in the making.

Power and perspectives

2009-05-07T13:32:00.000-07:00

Who sets the agenda?
What constitutes 'good behaviour'?
who decides?
and if we're working together; who sets the agenda?

Check Tom Cavanagh's blog post for another angle on collaboration. Makes me want to re-examine the idea of 'voice and influence' in schools. One of my daughters informed me that the school council wasn't meeting because the teacher in charge was off sick. Oooh I wonder what decisions would have been made in their absence if 'voice' and 'influence' were not separate notions. . .

2009-04-30T14:41:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking a lot about SATS this week. Whatever the politics, let's not forget that the pupils need our support and encouragement; they didn't make up the rules. They are only trying their best to follow them. It's at times like these that children need our reassurance more than ever. Particularly those who have the radar most tuned in to stress.

SATS booster walks

2009-04-11T07:21:00.000-07:00

A stroll around Sheffield city centre might just be the thing to get that extra level in maths come May. Not to mention getting some excercise. This latest tagger even added the words, 'it's pi' below another symbol- differentiated learning?

walkie talkie app

2009-04-11T06:29:00.000-07:00

Here goes adding this neat little app- the mere sight of the word 'code' makes me feel all technically inadequate, but let's follow the instructions and see how it works. . .

Done. It works a treat. Now visitors to this blog can have audio chats. Right click in the application opens up some settings- checking 'reduce echo' does exactly that.

My success is your success

2009-04-10T05:38:00.000-07:00

Working in my home town of Sheffield has brought back some strong memories of being a pupil. And some guilt about missed opportunities.

Looking back, the focus was the individual, with little status attached to helping others out. I remember as a sixth former volunteering to be a paired reader for a younger pupil in school. We would sit in the library and read for half an hour in our lunch break. I'd listen, offer help and say well done!- I didn't receive any training to do the task, but I guess was using a kind of 'Pause, Prompt, Praise' methodology.

At the time I have to be honest, it didn't feel much of an accomplishment. As I reflect on my time at secondary school, it was probably the most important thing I did during my whole time there.

And this is our challenge; to reward and recognise a far wider range of behaviours and achievements so that every aspect of a young person can shine through. Reminds me of the pupil sent to praise pod at St. Joseph's primary school for putting a smile on the teacher's face. And as we know it takes less muscles to smile than grimace. . .

Richard Villa on inclusion

2009-03-17T13:16:00.001-07:00

Magna, the ex-steelworks turned conference venue hosted Richard Villa for three days of high octane passion and inspirational sessions. Check Richard's website here. Anyone coming away untouched was probably not there in the first place. Which is the subject of another blog altogether. . .

Two main themes for me were; first, start with student's strengths; spend more time assessing qualities and be creative in adapting the pedagogy to fit. If we get it right for students with 'additional' needs (whatever that term really means??) we will inevitably make it better for every student. In time 'additional' becomes 'personal' and as such applies to every student, not simply those who slide off the bell-curve.

And second, involve young people. Friday had such a different energy provided by some wonderful students from Parkwood Academy. The 'Pride' group gave me another perspective and the three pupils representing the 'Leadship Academy' (see pic) were simply an inspiration.

Thanks to Richard for his energy, encouragement but most of all his acknowledgement of Friday's guests. I, for one, will keep many messages in mind and will endeavour to work in a more inclusive fashion from today onwards.

Therapeutic education, inclusion and neuroscience. . .

2009-03-06T11:48:00.000-08:00

Thought provoking session at Sheffield University this morning; messages of trusting in our children's creativity and trusting in our children to make their own choices emerged through strands of SEAL, brain development and some hard-hitting global facts about exclusion. Made me feel ashamed and inspired at the very same time. Thanks to all three speakers and a special thank you to Professor Roger Slee for sharing his 'Happy School' photo from India; surely a model for all schools around the world!

2009-03-03T08:02:00.000-08:00

After the first week of praise pod sessions at Oakwood the winning reason young people are being sent is. . . .

'support / kindness / understanding to others'

SEAL in action and lots of positive vibes in the library.
Ooops, good job i checked- 'vibes' came up as 'vices' on predictive! Must get a phone with querty keyboard.

Language and attitudes, old and young. . .

2009-02-24T03:28:00.000-08:00

Here's a few things to ponder:

71% of press coverage of young people in Britain is negative (audit commission 2009)

Young people are technically more adept and confident than their parents. The term 'Digital Native' recognises this generation born into a digital age.

The developed world has an ageing population
We teach mainly in single year age bands

It seems a crying shame that the 'us and them' state of play is stifling bridge-building between young and old (and anyone in between for that matter) The Guardian July 2008 reported: "England's local authorities are not doing enough to make sure the ageing population has enough interesting and worthwhile things to do.

The report says most councils are not ensuring older residents can easily find out about areas such as volunteering, leisure and social activities, learning opportunities and transport. It highlights some excellent projects, such as a community radio station run by and aimed at older people in west Cornwall, but suggests that areas with the biggest populations of elderly people are often the worst for making sure they have something to do.

Michael O'Higgins, the chairman of the Audit Commission, said: "By 2029 nearly 40% of England's population will be over 50. These are active people, anxious to stay independent as long as possible.

"Ex-punk rockers and Rolling Stones fans are not going to be happy with a cup of tea and daytime TV."

The report says that by 2009 almost 18 million people in England will be aged 50 or over around a third of the population. In 2029 this will have risen to 23m.

It also flags up the areas with the highest and lowest proportions of over-50s. By next year 53% of people in West Somerset will be over 50 and by 2029 this will rise to 63%. Four other south-west districts are in the top 10.

This is a global issue; by 2025, one in three Japanese will be elderly. We all know that young people hold the key to helping; whether this is through hands-on care or developing technologies, medicines or creative solutions to tomorrow's dilemmas. So shouldn't older people be doing everything in their power to engage with and enlist the support of young people. It would make sense, surely and be equally mad to demonise them. Yet we do exactly this. Through the media and in our everyday language. Take a look at the first part of this teachers TV clip and listen for the word 'offender' - we are talking about 11 year old children. The very people who, when today's 45 year-old teacher retires will be 31.

I'm not critisicing the staff in the video; the language is part of the fabric of organisations, and it's been there many years. Like the word 'patient' and 'case' in healthcare. Language is so very powerful. More than we recognise. Mike Temple's excellent blog on behaviour management includes a fascinating insight into primary pupil's perceptions; in response to a simple question, "What is love?" one 4-year old replied,

"When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different. You just know that your name is safe in their mouths."
Billy- age 4

It's hard to convey such unconditionality when you're talking to 'an offender' and they know it. Particularly the very children with the greatest needs.

I don't think the answer lies solely in top-down strategies, rather action on the ground- such as nursing home residents spending time working with young people on community projects (listen to Ken Robinson's example from Tulsa, Oklahoma 19:50 into the clip, but it's all quality) and universities developing websites for older people (IBM project, Japan)

Technology offers such an exciting opportunity to share experiences and build trust and confidence not only in the technology itself, but in each other as people.

Here's looking forward to Praise Pod being another vehicle to unite and inspire.

children see, children do

2009-02-22T07:02:00.001-08:00

Let everyone first get their house in order before criticising children for their failings. I'd give this video a '12' rating for the last few seconds' content, so view responsibly.

Watch Children_See.wmv in Family Videos | View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

2009-02-18T14:59:00.000-08:00

It's widely regarded that the more aspects of a young person we see as positive, the better their mental health, and the better their life in general. So here I am at Broom Valley primary school. I'm early for a meeting so I look round the lobby and see certificates, values (more on those later) and a fantastic board of photos showing the wide variety of bilingual students in the school. Celebrating diversity in its most real sense.

As for the school's values, they are agreed through school council and more importantly lived and breathed within school. You fancy a job here? (I personally would recommend applying) well the first value to hit you in the face is 'we do not shout' - if you think it's ok to do so then fine, but not here. Ply your trade elsewhere and save your modeling of lack of control for another cohort. It is widely recognised that shouting indicates a loss of control that helps no-one.

Unsurprisingly, there are too many positives going on at Broom Valley to take the attention. The odd fall from grace becomes insignificant. Far from 'the slippery slope' it is simply a one-off exception to the rule. After all who hasn't on occasion told a lie. . .

As with any effective system, Broom Valley's doesn't sit on a shelf- its reward tokens are the first thing you see on entering the school and the very same rewards are shining in the eyes of the pupils who simply love being in school.

And so to the parameters of the praise pod- what are the keywords to get attention? fidgeting- No. Inquisitive challenge - yes. Shouting; not even a chance. There's simply too much going on that is positive.

2009-01-25T12:37:00.000-08:00

Been listening to Sir Ken Robinson's talk about creativity and passing it on to colleagues far and wide. Click here to go to the talk, as hosted by TED Here's the full web address:
http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/ken_robinson_says_schools_kill_creativity.html
just in case this link doesn't work, or for easy cut-and-pasting. Enjoy!

As well as fully backing Ken's sentiments that the challenge for 21st C schools is to recognise and celebrate more aspects of young people than we do at present, I've also come to believe that creativity happens around the edges of teams, organisations and disciplines, and it's no suprise that I first heard of Ken Robinson via Mark Waddington, ITV Local programme manager, rather than a colleague from the local educational authority. Click here for Mark's blog. and may many creative collisions occur. . .

The value of praise?

2009-01-25T11:48:00.000-08:00

Just recently met with a primary head who freely admits he can't think of a better way to spend his time than giving stickers to pupils and hearing about their successes. Or at least a more rewarding way of spending his time. And walking into the school you can simply feel the warmth and care this belief engenders, with that wonderful sound of happy children as a soundtrack to the day.
Yet budget management, strategy, policy, protocols, standards, target-setting and monitoring are all part of a modern school. I'm sure for many these pressures are so intense that it feels there simply isn't enough time to spend personally congratulating individual children. Sure, leadership is about more than saying well done to all and sundry, but it has to be central to all other parts of school life. Thank you Alan for keeping that flame burning brightly; it's reflected in the laughter and feelings of self-worth of so many children.

Oakwood Technology College

2009-01-25T11:38:00.000-08:00

A big well done to all the staff and pupils at Oakwood for organising their school and setting up Praise Pod. Without individuals willing to take risks there would never be leaders to follow, so I take my hat off to Clare and the team for their belief in change. Looking forward to hearing about the results

Bafta stars

2008-10-27T09:32:00.001-07:00

Well done Jack and Codey. What a team! Thanks to everyone who visited the praise pod and kept us all busy interviewing. Even grown ups can feel proud for simple things like ironing their own shirt. . .

Dinnington plays a mobile blinder

2008-10-21T05:46:00.000-07:00

Dinnington Community primary school must have the most uplifting Friday assembly on the planet. My personal favourite has to be "Who's played a blinder?" which is a reward for staff each week. Parents too were awarded certificates for completing a maths course alongside their children- we whisked one or two mums off to the praise and they took home clips of their children on their mobiles. Great to see the pride on their faces.

For now bluetooth technology has many benefits over data contracts for this. It does rely on parents physically coming into school, but hey, when school's such a buzzy place as this why not join the fun

Handheld Learning 2008

2008-10-21T04:38:00.000-07:00

October 13-15 at the Brewery. Ever had trouble arranging a few people to get to a meeting, arrive on time, keep to time and organise refreshments? It can feel like the hardest job in the world, yet here we are; over a thousand delegates, dozens of speakers, technology galore, food, and all is calm.

I have to say a big thank you to all the handheld team, the Promethian team and to the brewery hosts; they made me feel welcome and couldn't have been more helpful in sorting out technical challenges and much much more. And thanks too to Tom, Evelyn and Andy in Rotherham- pic is of the live link that we didn't quite make happen this time.

Whilst there were many stimulating presentations the real stars of the show were those in the background. Thanks everyone; you know who you are.

Peer Listeners

2008-09-30T04:39:00.000-07:00

Sept. 29th. Thanks to everyone at Dinnington Comprehensive school for their warm welcome. What a nice touch having a press cuttings book in reception to flick through. My favourite had to be the pupil who administered CPR at the local ice rink to save an elderly woman's life. How impressive is that!

As schools aim for specialist status I wonder which will be the first to gain specialism in empathic relationships?

Anti-bullying

2008-09-30T04:32:00.000-07:00

Sept 24th, Leeds. Thanks to John for the invite to present praise pod and it was great to hear of initiatives making a real difference. Circle Time, SEAL, Conflict resolution all working well to create climates where there is space to stop and listen before reacting to situations.

Time to understand another person's perspective. Sounds like it should be on everyone's personal development plan to me.

Regional ICT network.

2008-09-30T03:46:00.000-07:00

11th Sept, Park Plaza, Leeds. Regional ICT advisors network meeting. There was a strong broadcasting theme- this slide is a quote from a student at Thorn Park school for the deaf; there's something very affirming when someone else thinks what you think is worth publishing.

As if young people aren't doing this already! (Bebo, facebook, myspace etc. . . )

In this media revolution the tools are already out there so everyone has a voice. Thanks to Mark Waddington from ITV Local for his thought-provoking talk, to Barrie for the invite, and to Tim for his warm welcome and kind words.

Learning for all ages

2008-08-06T08:11:00.001-07:00

A big thank you to Yas and Chel from Netherfield Court for their warm reception and enthusiasm in getting involved in Praise Pod. I'm sure residents and staff will enjoy meeting pupils from local schools and learning from each other about what life is like when you're 9 and 90. A lot will have changes but I bet a lot is just the same. . .

Interview over the net

2008-07-10T10:57:00.000-07:00

A big thank you to Stephen Heppell for taking the time to interview today's praise pod visitors at Rawmarsh Ashwood primary school today. It always feels special when someone gives you their time and attention; in this busy world it has to be the most precious thing we can give. Today we heard about teamwork, sharing, leadership, kindness, hard work, a great attitude to learning and wonderful achievements from our visitors. No wonder everyone felt so proud. And rightly so.

My favourite teacher is . . .

2008-07-08T00:58:00.000-07:00

Magna was the venue for this BSF event. A thought-provoking keynote from Marcus Orlovsky kicked things off nicely, followed by a pupil presentation about their favourite teachers.
An excellent workshop from Clifton and Wingfield teachers sharing ideas from Sweden gave us lots to think about.
Key messages for me were; trust in our young people. Listen to each other. Don't look back too much, don't be afraid or look to blame and finally let's enjoy the process.

Slice up the cake using SEAL

2008-06-26T06:30:00.000-07:00

Here at Rawmarsh Sandhill primary school the praise pod uses SEAL as a basis for its keywords. Pupils arrive at the praise pod with Congratulations! cards as a reminder about why they've been sent. With so much praise and reward going on there's very little point in trying to get the wrong kind of attention, and consequently loads of learning happens in a happy atmosphere

Filming for ITV's praise pod group intro

2008-06-12T07:14:00.000-07:00

Here's the group of Y6 students from St. Joseph's R.C Primary in Rawmarsh taken just after filming. A big thanks to Dave from Rawmarsh CLC for today's camera work. Today we were welcomed and worked with three schools putting together an intorduction for the ITV site. It was wonderful to see such empowered learners and witness their confidence in font of camera. We asked pupils what they liked about their schools; their answers?

"Fun"
"Kind teachers"
"A place where nobody gets left out"
"It's like one big team"
"Everyone takes care of each other."

As a parent isn't that all we ask for our children's school?

ITV Local Upload opportunity

2008-06-11T08:55:00.000-07:00

The forward-thinking team at ITV Local Yorkshire have made a space on their internet site for participating schools ready to receive their video clips. Click here to go to the Praise Pod group on the ITV site.

Schools are amazingly creative places and every day wonderful ideas are used to solve everyday problems. ITV Local now gives schools the opportunity to upload video clips to celebrate achievements and share successes with a wider audience.

If you've a praise pod running in your school why not send a clip or two; you might even find it makes the local news and helps others. If you've not got a praise pod yet in your school you can leave a comment and find out how to set one up. You first need to login to blogger before sending comments.

Rosehill Primary School are stars

2008-05-19T03:37:00.000-07:00

Here's a picture of the wonderfully vibrant praise pod at Rosehill Primary school. Each star was lovingly coloured, cut and laminated by staff. What you don't see in the picture is the way the stars that hang from the ceiling move and shimmer. Children instinctively know when something is special; it has exactly that effect too. And shouldn't every child at school feel special?

A together community

2008-05-08T06:45:00.000-07:00

A major component of praise pod is the way the wider community is mobilised around a common positive language. Parents, volunteers, older people, community police officers all play their part. Just like sport, praise pod unites people and builds bridges. Try digitaldivide.net for a great example of the power of community action on a school system (article is under the literacy and learning section)

We know that positive social contact protects against depression, yet many older people live in isolation from their communities. The more we look at pooling resources, the more we find mutually beneficial arrangements (such as older people using their wealth of experience and skills to spend time listening to children from local schools in the praise pod, or on the end of a remote link if they can't get to school.)

And of course learning about the latest ICT tools from the most enthusistic teachers in the world.

What skills for the future?

2008-05-08T06:30:00.000-07:00

Okay, so praise pod is now helping schools focus more of their attention on positives. It's a good start but what constitutes 'good' and who chooses?

Alan November's website posts some interesting thoughts on the topic. Intrinsic motivation and persistence are put forward as two key qualities for success in a changing global world. Likewise 'empathy' is described as the single most important quality sought from HSBC (see Alan's podcast section for these and other discussions)

What would our schools look like, and who would be top of the class if pupils were graded primarily on their understanding of others' feelings?

And let's not forget the staff too; performance related pay based on evidence of empathy towards colleagues, learners and parents?

Dinnington Community Primary School

2008-05-01T09:38:00.000-07:00

Stevie Hobson, Learning mentor, and the wonderful new praise pod at Dinnington Community Primary. All systems go for launch on June 16th. I Can't wait to hear all about the 'trading cards' once praise pod gets going. There's going to be a lot of visitors, including the two pupils who were covering reception and gave me a really warm welcome to their school.

Castlefields Infant school, Brighouse

2008-04-19T02:36:00.000-07:00

Click here to see Castlefields praise pod stars. What a creative and caring group. Sounds like a wonderfully nurturing place to learn in with an amazing array of extra-curricular clubs too.

Well done Miss Booth for making it happen!

Praise Pod for enterprise learning

2008-04-09T01:33:00.000-07:00

Here's Rawmarsh Ashwood primary schools, 'Enterprise paddles' Designed by pupils and professionally printed by Broadswords printers (price keenly negotiated down by enterprising pupils!) Here's how it works; every time a particular type of enterprise behaviour happens it is recorded and then displayed on an LCD screen in school foyer. The pupil team keep track of the graph and work in partnership with the school staff to keep the figures heading in right direction.

Health and Social Care Awards

2008-04-07T14:37:00.000-07:00

Sheffield City Hall was the venue for the NHS Talent Yorkshire and Humberside awards. The praise pod team was up for the category 'partnership working' and won through to be considered for the National finals in July. The event was fantastic and made everyone feel special; fantastic organisation from Angela Dunn and colleagues, spot on hosting from Duncan Wood and Margaret Edwards, and to cap it all a brilliant piece of videography from Martin Hollingsworth to use a set of out-takes to bring the house down.

Many things stuck in my mind, perhaps none more so than Calderdale A&E consultant Andrew Lockey's idea to take some time out of theatre and into a school to make a promo video about wearing seat belts. Net result; 30% reduction in fatal RTA's. 'Thinking out of the box' is a well-overused saying these days, but this is the kind of inspired thing that others can help others be brave and take risks to make things better for everyone.

Here's looking forward to July and hearing about more inspiring projects.

Praise Pod aricle on Radio 4 PM show

2008-02-19T02:44:00.000-08:00

At last! Managed to load up this radio clip (by pretending it's a video) Maybe someone will send me to the praise pod for being resourceful . . .

Dilemma

2008-02-01T09:05:00.000-08:00

Saw this on a playground bench in Sheffield the other weekend. Look closely and you'll see it's some maths sums. And they're correct. Made me ask myself what would people focus on? Is this graffiti or self-directed study?

Brilliant teaching gets the attention it deserves at Ashwood school. . .

2008-01-31T08:06:00.000-08:00

Great to see Rawmarsh Ashwood School's keywords including positive staff behaviours too. The more you notice, the more you get. . . grown-ups like praise too.

Betty's first session in the pod at Thorogate Primary. Grandma, Governor, Praise Podder; is there no end to this lady's talents?

2008-01-25T00:38:00.000-08:00

The Concept in comic life

2008-01-24T01:55:00.000-08:00

ITV Calendar article

2008-01-24T01:37:00.000-08:00

CBBC Newsround article from Redscope Primary school

2008-01-24T01:23:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone at Redscope for organising and being brave in front of the cameras!!

2008-01-23T13:45:00.000-08:00

Word gets out to Malta

2008-01-23T13:27:00.001-08:00

Any UK school fancy making contact with the Times of Malta junior section? You could pair up to learn about life in each other's country through praise pod . . .

BETT Show 2008

2008-01-23T13:15:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Stephen Heppell and Lys Johnson for the invite to the 'Learner Voice' stand. It was great to meet so many inspiring people with amazing ideas. Pic courtesy of Joe Wilson from SQA

Miss Newey's school council

2008-01-23T12:32:00.000-08:00

Bursledon Junior School council talk about things they'd like to make their school a better place. Some fantastic, enterprising ideas. Here's a link to their site: http://www.bursledon-jun.hants.sch.uk/curriculum/schoolcouncil.htm

Praise Pod team photo

2008-01-23T07:22:00.000-08:00

praise pod is a real team effort. Thanks to everyone who has taken part so far, be they parents, pupils or police.

Positivity unites. Critisism divides.

parent comment posted on Radio 4 site

2008-01-23T07:09:00.000-08:00

At 09:03 PM on 05 Nov 2007, wrote:

My child goes to one of the schools in Rotherham which has piloted the praise pod, and I personaly cannot praise it enough. It has been a positive influence on all pupils; the percieved naughty children are now realising that positive attention has more reward attached to it than negative, and the children who are always good are getting the recognition they deserve.

The children who are sent to the pod are not singled out by their peers for being "boffs" as every child has the chance to be praised in this manner, regardless of how they have managed to attain this positive praise. The praise pod allows all kinds of achievements to be celebrated, not just academic success.We in this country live in a culture of critisism, not praise; receiving praise gratefully and being proud of our successes is percieved as being egotistical and unbecoming of the British. It is about time we changed this view, and where better to do this than in a primary setting, where most children learn about the accepted norms of society?

I, like many other parents, would rather my child learn in an environment where good behaviour has a real pay off, such as a visit to the praise pod. Who among us would rather be told off for being less than others expect, than being praised for doing the best we can can do ? Kids need to feel valued just as much as adults do, and the praise pod helps teachers show that they do value the children in their care. A child who feels valued and cared for will exhibit far more good behaviour than bad behaviour.

Rawmarsh Goes Live

2008-01-23T06:32:00.000-08:00

So 6 schools agree a date for praise pod to go live; January 21st it is and then the rain started! Someone famous once said "We will overcome!" and I'm sure we will do just that. I personally can't wait to hear how the first few weeks are going; what keywords have been chosen, what little gems are being captured on video, the reaction of children, parents, staff.

here's a link to Rawmarsh Comprehensive school's newsletter- it's got all the contact details for project managers at the end. http://www.rawmarsh-comp.rotherham.sch.uk/praisepod.asp

The BBC Teachers' resource section has a lesson plan on the subject of praise which might be a helpful place to start. Here's the link: http://news.bbc.co.uk/cbbcnews/hi/newsid_2440000/newsid_2441800/2441825.stm

I hope this little space on the internet makes it easy to share moments, ask questions, find answers and much more.