The Trusted Adult Effect | A Conversation with David Ingram

In this episode, I speak with David Ingram, Founding Head of College at Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi about:

• How his experience as a police constable in County Durham shaped his approach to education and student wellbeing
• The importance of establishing "trusted adults" for every student and how to systematically ensure this happens
• Building a comprehensive wellbeing framework that addresses academic, social, emotional, mental and physical dimensions
• Moving from seeing wellbeing as a "strategic priority" to a long-term "strategic commitment"
• A nuanced approach to smartphones in schools that balances innovation with appropriate boundaries

Key takeaways:

1. Trusted adult relationships: Dulwich increased from 85% to 100% of primary students having a trusted adult by explicitly discussing this concept with both students and staff. They also recognized that trusted adults might be admin staff rather than just teachers.
2. Comprehensive wellbeing frameworks: Working with positive psychologist David Bott, Dulwich developed a holistic approach to wellbeing that includes regular audits across multiple dimensions, allowing for systematic identification of areas for improvement.
3. The AS Steer tool: This assessment tool helps identify students who present as being fine but may be struggling internally, allowing for proactive rather than reactive intervention.
4. Smartphone policies: Rather than implementing a total ban, Dulwich restricts phone use during the school day while still embracing technology through innovative AI initiatives, creating a balanced approach that prepares students for managing technology in their future.
5. Collaborative approaches: The success of Dulwich's wellbeing strategy relies heavily on collaboration across their school network and with external experts.

Links mentioned in the episode:

• David Bott's work on positive psychology
• AS Steer wellbeing assessment tool
• Connect with David Ingram on LinkedIn

Episode Partner

The International Curriculum Association: Learn more

Join Shane's Intensive Leadership Programme at educationleaders.co/intensive

Shane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports school leaders globally. Passionate about empowment, he is the author of the best-selling 'Change Starts Here.' Shane is a leading educational voice in the UK, Asia and around the world.

You can find Shane on LinkedIn and Bluesky. or shaneleaning.com

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