Did you know that less than 50% of the current Grade 10s achieved the required standards for numeracy and about 30% of them achieved the required standards for literacy when they were in Grade 3? I have to say, it comes as no shock to me when I see how the kids I teach write! And did you know that of the 2.5million Grade 9s currently in the system, only 0.5million are projected to actually finish matric? And of those, 50 000 will leave with no certification at all. I am galled by the fact tha… Continue

At the Ken Blanchard Presidential Leadership summit during May 2008 the panel consisting of some of the world’s most influential leadership guru’s determined the following four broad leadership competencies as the most important: 1. Self Awareness. 2. The ability to create and manage highly effective teams. 3. The ability to listen to diverse opinions. 4. Having a strong set of core values. Interesting… again looking at these competencies how integrated they are and all starting with the self.… Continue

I am reading a book called Wild Places by Robert Macfarlane and in it there is a quote I quite liked. I thought I would share it with you. "I only went out for a walk, and frinally concluded to stay out till sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in." John Muir Why not join me for a walk sometime? Warm wishes, Paul

I endeavour to teach my kids about copyright laws, the importance of referencing work (to avoid plagiarism) and generally being obedient to the the laws of the land. Most DVDs nowadays, for example, have a disclaimer saying they are not allowed to be used in schools without prior permission - they are strictly for home use only (which I think is a ridiculous restriction anyway). It is incredibly difficult therefore, to teach the kids to be honest, law-abiding citizens when large corporations fai… Continue

We sometimes neglect to truly understand what we say. We use language wastefully. It can, however, be such an empowering tool...not only for ourselves, but for us to empower others. My work is based on the role the self plays in motivating and facilitating change. Like all the coaches on this forum will understand, personal presence is a phenomenally powerful tool. As such, I use 3 simple concepts to convey and realize the self. My self and the true self in others. 1. Recognition: to re… Continue