Today we made our way to our second day of training for the urban schools. When we arrived, we were greeted by the PEAs and again, made to feel very welcome.
Today's participants were mostly Section Leaders,like Principal Teachers to us back in Glasgow. It was explained to us that many of the Headteachers and Assistant Headteachers had previously been on the MLOL leadership training which was great to hear as now the training is being offered to the Section Leaders who have the biggest impact on the teaching and learning in schools in terms of directly upskilling and working with teachers.
This shows the sustainability and hard work from the MLOL training over the years and how it has now cascaded down through the ranks to build capability.
As the morning progressed, the participants engaged in lots of rich discussion and became comfortable sharing their ideas together and coming out to the board to collate and explain what they had discussed in their groups.
Like yesterday, it was evident to see the passion of these leaders and the good practice that is clearly going on in their schools. As we explored the 'Good Lesson Cycle' together, we shared teaching ideas and strategies for the different aspects .
It seemed many enjoyed the KWL grid on Scotland, having the prior knowledge that it was “very cold” but with lots of questions they wanted to find out. We concluded with ‘professional pledges’ and it was inspiring and encouraging to see the key takeaways that the participants were going to implement back in their schools.
On our way back from training, we stopped by to visit a dear friend of Michele and Sharon’s. It was clear to see how delighted she was to see Michele, just as Michele was to see her. I felt emotional despite not knowing the friend as it was clear to see this project is so much much than just coming over and providing training.
It is the bonds and relationships that have been built over the years that will last a very long time. It is very easy to see why these strong friendships are formed due to the warmth of the Malawi people.
I know first hand from living abroad, how you bond quicker with people when you are away from home as you really value their kindness.
This experience has already given me these special moments to sit back and think on a more deeper level and feel grateful and humble, which sometimes we all forget to do in our busy lives.
