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

Thank you for tuning in, and if you found this episode useful, please share. You can find me on LinkedIn and Bluesky.

Shane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. Passionate about empowering educators, he is the author of the best-selling 'Change Starts Here.' Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com.

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