BSME Talks

BSME

Welcome to BSME Talks — the podcast where international educators come together to share insights, experiences, and ideas shaping education in the Middle East and beyond. Each episode explores the unique challenges and innovations of teaching overseas, the impact schools are making regionally, and the lessons that connect international education to classrooms everywhere. Whether you’re an educator considering an overseas move, teaching internationally, or simply curious about what’s happening in global education, BSME Talks is your space for real conversations that matter.

  1. Jun 25

    BSME Talks | The Season One Finale

    As the academic year draws to a close, BSME CEO Debra Forsyth and COO Nalini Cook come together for the Season One finale of BSME Talks to reflect on a year unlike any other. From celebrating the highlights of the year to navigating the challenges posed by regional conflict and its impact on our community, Debra and Nalini look back on the events that shaped 2025–26. They discuss the difficult decisions behind cancelled events, the pivots that allowed others to continue, and the remarkable resilience shown by BSME Schools and Partners throughout. The episode also takes listeners behind the scenes of BSME, exploring what it really takes to deliver events across the region, work alongside UK Government organisations, and support schools through an ever-changing landscape. They reflect on key developments including safeguarding updates, the launch of the new BSME website and the arrival of BSME Talks itself. Looking ahead, Debra and Nalini share what's on the horizon for 2026–27, including TeacherCon KSA26, the Student Conference, BSME MUN and the return of the Annual Conference in February 2027. Join us for a candid conversation celebrating the strength of the BSME community, the power of partnership, and the people who have made this year possible.

  2. Jun 22

    BSME Talks | Making the Move to Teach in the Middle East

    In this episode of BSME Talks, host Debra Forsyth is joined by three teachers currently in the UK who are preparing for an exciting new chapter in the Middle East: Poppy Russo, who is joining British International School Jeddah after previously teaching in Singapore, Charlotte Lown, who is heading to Repton Al Barsha, and George Gardiner, who is making the move to Reach British School in Abu Dhabi. Together, they share the stories behind their decisions to teach overseas, reflect on the interview process, and discuss what inspired them to take the leap. They also speak candidly about navigating uncertainty following the conflict in the Middle East earlier this year, how it affected their plans, and the reassurance and support provided by their new schools. From document attestation and shipping furniture to relocating beloved cats, the trio reveal some of the practical challenges that come with an international move. With all of our guests also being parents, they discuss the added considerations they have had to make around uprooting their familiar family life. Looking ahead, they talk about what excites them most: exploring new countries, embracing new experiences, learning from different people and perspectives, and even cycling around an F1 track. Whether you're considering your own move overseas or simply curious about life beyond the UK classroom, this episode offers an honest, insightful and often humorous look at the realities of starting afresh in the Middle East.

  3. Jun 11

    BSME Talks | Founding a New School with Simon O'Connor

    In this episode of BSME Talks, Nalini Cook sits down with Simon O'Connor, Executive Head Master of Harrow International Schools UAE and Founding Head Master of Harrow Dubai, to explore the realities of bringing a globally recognised school brand to the UAE. Drawing on his experience leading some of the region's most respected schools, Simon reflects on what it means to establish a new school when there is no local legacy to rely on. From earning the trust of families and attracting outstanding staff to creating a sense of community before the doors even open, he shares the challenges, opportunities and lessons that come with shaping a school's identity from day one. The conversation also explores why Simon believes collaboration, not competition, will define the future of education in the UAE, how Harrow's values are being embedded within a Middle Eastern context, and the role he hopes the school will play in the wider educational landscape. Along the way, he reflects on the experiences from Jumeirah College and Deira International School that continue to influence his approach to leadership and school development. A fascinating insight into school founding, educational leadership and the evolving future of international education in the Gulf.

  4. Jun 4

    BSME Talks | Teacher Recruitment During Times of Uncertainty

    On this episode of BSME Talks, Nalini Cook, COO of BSME, is joined by Lisa Passante, Principal at Star International School, Al Twar, and Ryan Jones, Co-Founder of Teacher Recruit, to explore the current state of recruitment across the Middle East education landscape. With schools across the region continuing to recruit well into Term 3, ongoing regional tensions have created a recruitment cycle unlike anything many leaders have experienced before. As Lisa explains, one of the biggest challenges schools now face is rebuilding candidate confidence and reassuring teachers that the region remains a safe and rewarding place to live and work. The conversation highlights the importance of honesty, reassurance, and strong leadership throughout the recruitment process. Teachers aren’t panicking, they’re doing their due diligence. Increasingly, candidates are looking beyond salary packages alone and placing greater value on transparency, culture, and leadership when deciding between schools. Lisa and Ryan also challenge common misconceptions about the region, discuss why recruitment should feel like a two-way conversation rather than a sales pitch, and reflect on the risks of relying too heavily on one recruitment strategy. Their advice? Don’t let assumptions make decisions for you. Stay curious, not cautious.

  5. May 21

    BSME Talks | Scenario Planning with Woody Wade

    On this episode of BSME Talks, Kirsty Crosby is joined by Woody Wade for an exclusive preview of his upcoming workshop at the Business of Schools Webinar Series. As Director of Wade & Co., Woody has spent years helping organisations prepare for an increasingly unpredictable future and in this episode, he shares why scenario planning is becoming an essential leadership tool for schools across the Middle East. Offering listeners a first look at the themes he’ll explore during his webinar session, Woody discusses how school leaders can create time for long-term strategic thinking, who should be involved in those conversations, and why schools need to move beyond simply reacting to day-to-day challenges. The conversation also shines a spotlight on the vital role business and operations staff play within schools. From being the eyes and ears of the organisation to contributing to long-term planning and organisational resilience, Kirsty and Woody discuss why operational teams should be recognised as key strategic partners - and why professional learning opportunities for these roles are more important than ever. Tune in for practical insights, future-focused thinking and an exclusive preview of what’s to come at the Business of Schools Webinar Series. You can secure your ticket for the Business of Schools Webinar Series here: https://www.bsme.org.uk/tbos

  6. May 14

    BSME Talks | Tuning into the Reach British School Radio

    On this episode of BSME Talks, we revisit a standout moment from the BSME Annual School Leaders’ Conference 2026: the exciting launch of Reach British School Radio. Nalini is joined by Kirsty Robertson, Head of Sixth Form, and Zain, a Year 12 student and members of the Reach British School Radio team, for an inside look at the story behind the station. Broadcast to an audience spanning 46 countries, the launch at the BSME Annual School Leaders' Conference captured global attention, but the journey to get there was anything but simple. Together, they explore what it really takes to build a school radio station from the ground up, the key considerations for schools looking to do the same, and the powerful impact student-led media can have across an entire school community.

  7. May 7

    BSME Talks | Teacher Retention During Times of Uncertainty

    On this episode of BSME Talks, Debra Forsyth, CEO of BSME, is joined by two outstanding members of our community: Rachel Higgins, Principal and CEO of GEMS Jumeirah Primary School, and Sean Sibley, Principal at Doha English Speaking School. Amid ongoing uncertainty across the Middle East, many educators have found themselves asking a difficult question: whether to remain in the region or return home. Rachel and Sean share how they have supported staff who have chosen to stay, and how their recruitment and retention strategies have adapted this academic year. They explore the shift in staff sentiment since the onset of the conflict, and the realities of managing what has become their longest and most complex recruitment cycle to date. From evolving “buddy” systems to leading with clear, confident communication, they offer practical, grounded insights into sustaining strong, connected school communities during times of uncertainty.

  8. Apr 30

    BSME Talks | Student Wellbeing in Times of Crisis

    On this episode of BSME Talks, host Alexandra White, Digital Marketing and Design Lead at BSME, is joined by Laura Earnshaw, Founder and CEO of myHappymind, and Ruby Fiddes, Assistant Head Teacher at GEMS Founders School Al Mizhar, for an insightful discussion on student wellbeing. Ruby reflects on the realities of returning to school, sharing how staff have navigated uncertainty while remaining grounded in their core training and professional instincts. She explores the importance of consistency in the classroom, the value of strong relationships, and the critical role that parents and the wider school community play in supporting student wellbeing. Laura introduces her practical “4 B’s and 3 N’s” framework, offering guidance on what to notice in children’s behaviour and how to respond effectively. She discusses how children often communicate their needs non-verbally, and why understanding this is key to supporting their emotional development.  The conversation also highlights the importance of prioritising teacher wellbeing, recognising the impact that adult emotions can have on students, and shares strategies to help regulate a child’s nervous system. Together, they provide a thoughtful and practical exploration of how schools can create supportive environments where both students, staff and the wider school community can thrive.

See All (14)

About

Welcome to BSME Talks — the podcast where international educators come together to share insights, experiences, and ideas shaping education in the Middle East and beyond. Each episode explores the unique challenges and innovations of teaching overseas, the impact schools are making regionally, and the lessons that connect international education to classrooms everywhere. Whether you’re an educator considering an overseas move, teaching internationally, or simply curious about what’s happening in global education, BSME Talks is your space for real conversations that matter.

Information

  • Creator
    BSME
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 BSME Talks
  • Show Website
    BSME Talks