Karen Archer, the deputy head: director of Bellavista S.H.A.R.E, recently had the privilege of attending Re:Storying Education, brought together by Love Our City - a social impact organisation dedicated to bringing justice to our community, city and country with a focus on education, entrepreneurship and empowerment.
The keynote speaker was Professor Jonathan Jansen, Professor of Education at the University of Stellenbosch. He is also president of the South African Academy of Science and president of the South African Institute of Race Relations. For many, it was an honour to hear him speak with such passion and truth, and his words continue to resonate with Archer, so Professor Jansen, all credit is to you as she reflects on your words today.
Physical presence: Simply put, are you and your staff showing up? Learning attainment has been shown to be directly related to teachers’ absenteeism. Are you on time, fully present and prepared for your students? As a leader are you visible, not behind closed doors in endless meetings but rather observing what is happening in the school?
Emotional presence: It's about creating a nurturing and empathetic learning environment where students feel valued, understood, and supported in both their academic and personal growth. Can you intuitively sense how your team and students are feeling just by observing their behaviour, and do you take the time to ask them if they are okay?