There are many ways in which coaching can be extremely beneficial in the school environment.
Below we have listed a few of the ways in which we have helped schools in the past, that hopefully will stimulate some thoughts and ideas for you. If you would like to discuss any of these ideas, then please do contact us.
Yr 7 – in this year, coaching can be extremely helpful in combating what has become known as Transition Regression. There is much documentation on the backward movement of some students during year 7. Working with you, we can identify groups of students who appear to be regressing and in small groups work with them, re-focusing them and re-committing them to education.
Yr 8 – In year 8 we can support your school to implement a system of goal setting with weekly and monthly checkpoints. We have found that this can increase motivation and commitment to learning. We can also work with students to identify their learning styles and therefore make their classes, homework and studying more effective.
Yr 9 – We have found year 9 to be one of the most challenging times for a teenager at school and have had much success with implementing Teen As Coach projects in this year group that give teenagers more responsibility and control of their own lives.
Yr 11 – During this year we can work with borderline students and identify their drivers and motivators. We can then offer support and guidance up to exam taking and support with studying. We can also work with the high achievers to ensure that they get the best grades they can.
Sarah and her team can also consult with your school on any issues that you have. We can support you in bringing a more "coaching ethos" into your school enviroment, staff and pupils alike.
Please note that our methods and philosophy is deeply steeped in William Glasser's "Quality Schools Theory" and therefore we do not agree that schools should be run on control psychology methods. In other words, everyone operates from the belief that it is impossible to control another human being. If we wish to influence people, then we need to create a satisfying relationship with them. We believe the primary task of teachers is to influence and a good working relationship between teachers and pupils becomes the important priority. We believe that change will only occur when students are consulted, listened to and their ideas implemented.
"I just wanted to say thank you for all your help. You made me realise I have to start believing in myself and to respect others as well as myself. I am really grateful for all you have done for me. Before you came, people always saw a front, not the real me. Now you’ve taken that away and I am a better person. I’ve also started to trust people more, which I didn’t before. Now you go and work your magic on another young person and make them believe in themselves as well!" - Melissa Burke participant (17) on My Teen’s a Nightmare….I’m moving out.
