Pod on Purpose

We’re exploring purposeful minds and the process to understanding the meaning of purpose and impact at The Alice Smith School with Navin Gopal & Francesco Corbetta.Summary In this conversation, Navin Gopal, from Astroscale, discusses the importance of space sustainability and the need to clean up space debris with Francesco Corbetta, Alice Smith School Physics Teacher, A Level Tutor and Leader of EPQ. Navin explains that Astroscale is dedicated to on-orbit servicing across all orbits and their mission is to remove space junk and extend the life of satellites. Navin emphasizes the implications of not addressing this issue, such as the Kessler syndrome, where collisions between space debris create a dangerous cloud of objects that can hinder space exploration. He also highlights the importance of space for sustainability on Earth, including mining resources, renewable energy, and collecting data for climate change research. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the future of space tourism and the excitement surrounding missions to the Moon and Mars. TakeawaysAstroscale is dedicated to on-orbit servicing and removing space debris across all orbits. Space debris poses a significant threat to space exploration and the sustainability of space activities. Cleaning up space debris is crucial to prevent the Kessler syndrome, where collisions create a cloud of objects that can hinder space activities. Space is important for sustainability on Earth, including mining resources, renewable energy, and collecting data for climate change research. The future of space includes space tourism, missions to the Moon and Mars, and the development of a circular economy in space. Links online School website: www.alice-smith.edu.my This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

We’re exploring purposeful minds and the process to understanding the meaning of purpose and impact at The Alice Smith School. Episode Summary In this podcast episode, host Simon Jones engages with Prakash Ravindran and Sian to delve into the essential topic of student wellbeing. They discuss the critical role of mental health in education, emphasising the necessity of having a trusted adult within the school environment and protecting every child's right to dignity at all times. Together, they explore collaborative strategies within schools to support students, tackle mental health stigma, and highlight the media's influence in educating emotional awareness. Additionally, the conversation underscores the importance of parental involvement in creating a nurturing environment. Tune in for more valuable insights and future directions for wellbeing initiatives that aim to foster resilience and flourishing among our students.Links online School website: www.alice-smith.edu.my This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

We’re exploring purposeful minds and the process to understanding the meaning of purpose and impact at The Alice Smith School. Episode Summary Alice Smith School alumna Melissa Tan, a former CEO turned full-time mother, shares her inspiring journey from fitting in at school to studying in Cardiff and Oxford, UK to leading her family's natural latex mattress business (Getha) and ultimately choosing to prioritise family life. In this episode, Melissa candidly discusses the challenges she faced in balancing her professional ambitions with the demands of motherhood, as well as the unexpected joys of being present for her two daughters. She also delves into her passions for mental health and staying active through running. Join Melissa as she invites listeners to connect with her on Instagram, where she shares more about her experiences and insights into navigating life as a CEO mum. Links online Melissa Tan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissatcySchool website: www.alice-smith.edu.my This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

In this episode, Sian May, with Richard Stockings and Helen Jones, discusses the importance of safeguarding and how it is implemented in their school. They emphasise the need for communication and open dialogue between parents, students, and the school. They also highlight the role of policies, procedures, and training in creating a safeguarding culture. The conversation covers topics such as the role of designated safeguarding leads, the involvement of students in safeguarding, the importance of language and shared understanding, and the engagement of external experts and governors. The episode provides valuable insights and resources for parents and students to understand and support safeguarding efforts.TakeawaysSafeguarding is a shared responsibility between the school, parents, and the community.Open communication and dialogue are essential for effective safeguarding.Policies, procedures, and training play a crucial role in creating a safeguarding culture.Involving students in safeguarding empowers them and promotes their well-being.Engaging external experts and governors enhances safeguarding practices.Understanding the language and terminology of safeguarding is important for parents and students.Parents and students should contact designated safeguarding leads or any trained staff for support and information.Links online School website: www.alice-smith.edu.my This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

We’re exploring purposeful minds and the process to understanding the meaning of purpose and impact at The Alice Smith School. In this episode, we are talking to Alumni Natasha Chapplow, a humanitarian-focused professional with extensive involvement in large-scale scientific fieldwork projects.Natasha, an alumna from 2002-2012, has a remarkable story. She took time to ponder her path before deciding on a joint honours in Geology and Oceanography. Pursuing her passion, she earned a PhD. Now, she's a respected Earth Scientist working in Washington DC. Natasha advises governments on climate change and disaster risk management. She emphasises creating your niche. Be competitive, diplomatic, and seek a meaningful career with significant impact.Links online School website: www.alice-smith.edu.my This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

Mark Chang, alumni of Alice Smith School and aerospace industry veteran, discusses his passion for space exploration and the future of technology. Topics include the concept of light travel, UK's space race involvement, private sector advancements in space missions, and opportunities for young minds in the industry.

In this episode, we’re talking to Kirun Goy, who has taught over 80,000 humans how to live more deliberate lives. Long-time associate of Sian May, Head of School at Alice Smith School, Kirun and Sian discuss Kirun's "brain tools" and how his life changed after he started studying medicine and shifted his focus to neuroscience. Kirun has an impressive background including as a Harvard publishing leadership facilitator and has worked with a number of schools and corporations to integrate his tools to teach students and leaders how to use their brains more efficiently and intentionally for impact.Links online School website: www.alice-smith.edu.my Kirun Goy: https://kirungoy.com/ This episode was produced by The Bonjour Agency.

Daniel Woodroof, former racing driver turned entrepreneur, discusses his non-linear career path, from professional racing to starting an international marketing agency. He shares insights on the influence of teachers, passion for racing, and exploring non-traditional career paths. Woodroof also talks about his podcast hosting journey and the impact of mentorship on his entrepreneurial endeavors.

In this insightful episode, Sian May, our Head of School, engages in a thought-provoking discussion with renowned Positive Education expert, David Bott. The focus of this session is to delve into the core psychological needs of children and how meeting these needs can significantly impact their overall wellbeing. By leveraging principles from Positive Psychology and Wellbeing Science, the conversation aims to provide practical strategies for parents, educators, and the community to help children in thrive emotionally and mentally. Linkswebsite:https://www.thewellbeingdistillery.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidfbott/?originalSubdomain=auBook: 10 Things Schools Get Wrong (And How We Can Get Them Right)

Environmental scientist and adventurer Tim Jarvis discusses his expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctic, importance of addressing climate change, revolutionizing education for sustainability, and encouraging young individuals to pursue environmental science and exploration. He also shares fond memories from his time at Alice Smith school.