Leading Your International School

LYIS
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Each month, we release a podcast episode, hosted by Joe Otley, our very own LYIS member. He will be joined with a guest to share their wealth of experience and a unique perspective!

  1. Women in Leadership - Creating A Culture of Belonging

    JAN 7

    Women in Leadership - Creating A Culture of Belonging

    Join Joe Otley in conversation with Sophie Brandsar, Primary Vice Principal at an international school in Cambodia, for an authentic and energising discussion about creating genuine belonging in international school communities. In This Episode Sophie joins Joe to share her powerful insights on psychological safety, authentic leadership, and creating genuine belonging in international school communities. Drawing from both positive and challenging experiences abroad, Sophie reveals why getting to know your team individually matters more than blanket initiatives, how to empower teachers to bring their unique strengths to school, and why living abroad without a safety net makes community-building even more critical. Her practical examples offer refreshing, actionable approaches for leaders at any level. About the Guest Sophie Brandsar is a passionate educational leader currently serving as Primary Vice Principal in Cambodia. After studying at an international boarding school in Oxford, she trained at a specialised university in the Netherlands that focuses exclusively on international education. Her journey took her through various international schools before landing her first leadership role as a math lead for middle school, where she worked to eliminate math anxiety. Sophie recently completed her Master's in Educational Leadership and is known for her authentic, people-first approach to leadership. This podcast is brought to you by LYIS, a membership organisation supporting international school leadership globally. LYIS offers leadership qualifications, professional development, and community building for principals and senior leaders across international schools worldwide. Subscribe and follow for more inspiring conversations with international school leaders!

    34 min
  2. Leading with Authenticity, with Rob Daws

    12/01/2025

    Leading with Authenticity, with Rob Daws

    The LYIS Podcast is back! Thank you to Joe Otley, our new host, for an invigorating discussion with Rob Daws.

    47 min
  3. Ep25: Unlocking the Superpower of Parents in Education

    04/21/2025

    Ep25: Unlocking the Superpower of Parents in Education

    In the latest Leading Your International School podcast, Barry Cooper and Euan MacLean discuss a critical issue in education: the growing divide between schools and parent communities. Euan shares insights from his experience and his new social enterprise, &Parents, focusing on how stronger parent-school partnerships can lead to improved student outcomes – both academically and holistically. "When schools and parent communities work better together, I think that can really only be for the overall benefit of the students", said Euan. More about Euan: 🏙️ Based in the beautiful city of Edinburgh, Scotland. He loves exploring cities, including Venice and New York. 🐾 Closer to home, you'll find him enjoying sunny beach walks on the Isle of Lewis with his French bulldog, Mabel. 🎓 Currently pursuing his Doctorate in Education, he’s passionate about bridging research with practical applications for schools and families.
🎹🍽️ When he's not working, he relaxes by playing the piano and saxophone. He also loves discovering new culinary delights. ⭐ Euan is nearly always planning his next adventure, in one of Edinburgh's parks!

    33 min
  4. Ep24: Equity & Justice: A New Paradigm in Education

    03/04/2025

    Ep24: Equity & Justice: A New Paradigm in Education

    In this months Leading your international school podcast Barry Cooper is joined by Kausor Amin-Ali, Principal of Frontline International School in Ajman. Join as they discuss: Equity and Justice in International Education. 🌍 In the podcast, Kausor: • Emphasises the need to move beyond broad DEI initiatives to focus on equitable representation, particularly in leadership roles. • Highlights the underrepresentation of ethnic minorities in headship positions, especially in the UK, and suggest this may be attributed to cultural preferences and biases in hiring. • Discusses the importance of intentional planning, cultural awareness, and community engagement to foster inclusivity. • Advocates for schools to create a welcoming environment where diverse cultural practices are respected and celebrated, and encourages teachers to actively engage with and learn from the local community. In his free time, he enjoys studying History, Cycling, Football (goalkeeping), travelling with his wife and son and enjoys being a Father. #LYIS25 takes place at @Foshan EtonHouse International School from the 28th – 30th March. To attend, click here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1tIG16o2l_NIudioTDTDWO1qlQET7WQ5A8IARVjPso94/edit #lyis #lyis25 #lyispodcast #interntionalschools #leadership #principals

    48 min
  5. EP 23: VAT Implications: Unintended Consequences

    02/03/2025

    EP 23: VAT Implications: Unintended Consequences

    In the latest Leading Your International School Podcast, Barry Cooper is joined by Christine Cunniffe as they discuss the implications of VAT on private school education in the UK. -Will the money raised be used for its intended purpose and effect? -Will it cause a surge in state education places, negating the financial income it seeks to raise? -Should education ever be taxed? Are there more strategically important things to tax instead? -What are the long-term implications for private and public sector education systems, and how might this affect our international schools? All this and much more. Christine Cunniffe is the Principal of LVS Ascot, a school steeped in the history and traditions of charity.  One conversation not to be missed!

    40 min
  6. EP 22: What Makes a Great School?

    01/03/2025

    EP 22: What Makes a Great School?

    In this conversation, Selina and Barry discuss the essential elements that contribute to a great school. They explore the importance of independence in school reviews, the significance of parent insights, and the subtle indicators of school culture. Selina emphasises the role of school leadership in shaping a positive environment and compares the evolving standards of UK and international schools. The discussion also highlights the benefits of international education, the importance of local staff, and future trends in the education sector. Tune in to this episode to listen to Selina’s  practical advice for parents and school leaders.

    44 min
  7. EP20: BEYOND CLASSROOM: EXPLORING OUTDOOR EDUCATION

    12/30/2024

    EP20: BEYOND CLASSROOM: EXPLORING OUTDOOR EDUCATION

    Outdoor education can shape young minds and inspire lifelong learning. In the latest LYIS podcast, we sat down with Haena Kim, Director, WildChina Education; CEO, Beyond Classrooms and expert in experiential learning. Join Haena and Barry as they discuss the importance of experiential learning and outdoor education to promoting cultural understanding, personal growth, and academic achievement. Listen as Haena shares her own inspiring journey, from growing up in the Philippines to leading transformative outdoor experiences in China and beyond. Discover the power of language learning, the importance of pushing boundaries, and the role of outdoor education in cultivating resilience and curiosity. Discover how outdoor education can revolutionise the way we learn and grow.

    47 min
  8. Expanding Horizons: Advancing Your Global CV with International School Expertise

    03/06/2024

    Expanding Horizons: Advancing Your Global CV with International School Expertise

    Join Anna and Barry as they discuss the insights of overseas teaching and leadership. Anna has 25 years experience teaching in and leading independent schools both in the UK and abroad.  In this episode, Anna shares her experiences in education, particularly focusing on her time working overseas. She highlights the challenges and rewards of working with diverse cultures and the importance of adaptability and resilience in teaching. Anna emphasises the value of international experiences for both educators and students, as they bring unique perspectives and skills to the learning environment. The conversation also touches on recruitment practices and the role of multiculturalism in education.

    41 min
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Each month, we release a podcast episode, hosted by Joe Otley, our very own LYIS member. He will be joined with a guest to share their wealth of experience and a unique perspective!

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