Human Connection and Purpose in International Education, with Hayley Wilson

In this episode of Interbeing we dive into a profound conversation with Hayley Wilson, Deputy Head of the Senior School at Kellett School in Hong Kong. We explore the role of coaching in fostering a sense of community and humanity within schools, emphasizing values of care, curiosity, and meaningful relationships. Hayley shares her personal and professional journey toward adopting a purpose-driven and coaching-focused ethos, highlighting the significant cultural shifts at Kellett School toward connection, respect, and intentionality in both student and staff development.

02:04 Introducing Hayley Wilson and Kellett School

03:17 What Does It Mean to Be Human?

04:21 The Frenzied Nature of School Life

05:52 Finding Alternatives to Frenzy

08:34 The Importance of Connection and Culture

12:09 Discovering Coaching and Its Impact

18:54 The Power of Purpose in Education

21:50 Creating Conditions for Future Success

22:22 Purpose-Driven Leadership

23:52 Building a Culture of Respect

26:10 Challenges and Intentionality in Leadership

30:05 Cross-Cultural Leadership Dynamics

32:41 Reflections on Team Building

35:01 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Hayley is the Deputy Head Pastoral, Wellbeing and Community and DSL of Senior of Kellett , The British International School in Hong Kong. Hayley has 18 years of experience as a teacher and leader, 13 years of which have been in an international setting - having worked previously in the USA and Egypt. Hayley holds an MA in Leadership of Mental Health and Wellbeing in Schools and has written a bespoke course in how to be a Senior Mental Health Lead in an International Setting.

Hayley is a purpose driven educator, committed to supporting every child as part of a team who are committed to living their values.

You can find us on Linkedin at

Matt Hall: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-hall-msb/

Naomi Ward: https://www.linkedin.com/in/naomi-ward-098a1535/

Interbeing is made by Making Stuff Better https://makingstuffbetter.com/ and produced by Emily Crosby Media https://emilycrosbymedia.com/