While teachers often work alone in the classroom, they must work together to create the best educational experience for their students. Collaboration and professional learning among educators is a force that positively influences the whole school community.
This year, teachers and staff at Girton Grammar School have joined The Buzz Academy, founded by keynote speaker, author, and leadership and team educator, Tracey Ezard, who has worked in partnership with schools and school systems for over 15 years.
After hearing Tracey Ezard speak at a conference, Dr O’Rielly researched her program, The Buzz, to ensure relevance for Girton staff and students, and requested a visit from Tracey to our school. On Tuesday 7th February, Tracey conducted sessions with Girton’s Executive Leadership Team, Heads of Department and Heads of House. The day culminated in an all-staff workshop.
“To my mind, working together to create a collaborative learning culture is all important, as together we are more than the sum of our parts,” said Girton Grammar School Principal, Dr Emma O’Rielly.
“Tracey Ezard works with educational leaders and their teams to build a strong culture of trust, collaboration and learning. When teachers within a school learn together, all the students benefit, which is what this initiative is about.”
‘The Buzz’ comprises three key pillars that build the learning intelligence of a school culture – a collective growth mindset, authentic dialogue and a compelling environment. Membership to The Buzz Academy providers leadership support, resources, activities, and assistance for teachers and staff to build a school’s professional learning culture and growth.
According to Tracey, The Buzz is the energy in a culture that’s built on collaboration, trust and learning. “It’s an exciting workplace with a buzzing learning zone. The sense of purpose is palpable, as is the willingness to find new ways of transforming the work. Tracey believes that sitting at the very core is the impact The Buzz has on the students.
“They thrive surrounded by teachers who are focused on making a difference for them and their learning.”
Dr O’Rielly said, “If we want our students to possess the skills they need to succeed now and in the future, we need educators who possess contemporary teaching skills and knowledge.”
“At Girton, 2023 is designated as The Year of Collaboration and Exploration and there are several areas and initiatives under development to ensure we are delivering the best learning environment for our students and the best possible working environment for our staff.”
“We are excited to work with Tracey this year to strengthen the capacity of our educators and nurture a learning community where teachers work together, learn from each other and create a buzz in our school that generates even better results for our students.”
