This briefer than usual newsletter contains updated information about Circle training and the Rethinking Education conference, but we begin with an job opportunity in Sydney.

In England, the new term began with the closure of many schools built of poor-quality concrete, now beginning to crumble. Our kids in state schools are getting a raw deal in so many ways, but despite these failures at the socio-political level educators are still doing their best at the micro-level. In Australia there is the upcoming referendum on the Voice, which would give Aboriginal people the constitutional right to consultation – and therefore more of a say on policy – should governments be minded to listen. Agency – voice and choice – is the first of the ASPIRE principles. This is a link to an article from the Australian version of The Conversation on the 7 rules for a respectful and worthwhile Voice referendum.

Job Opportunity

Dr Kimberley O’Brien who runs the Quirky Kid Clinics in Australia is looking for a psychologist to join her. Read details here: https://www.childpsychologist.com.au/team-and-partner/child-psychologist-jobs-sydney

Most UK applicants require 3 months to organise visa applications and registration with AHPRA. Quirky Kid offers assistance with this process plus a relocation allowance for those interested in a two- or three-year permanent contract.

You may have used some of the wonderful Quicky Kid therapeutic resources for social-emotional learning or for counselling. Anyone who applies and gets an interview will receive a pack of Face-It Cards. This consists of children’s faces illustrating a wide range of emotions well beyond the usual happy, sad and angry! They have many uses for all ages; for instance, asking learners in pairs to discuss what might have happened for this person. Great conversations about feelings and empathy.

Social-emotional Learning

The next Circle Solutions Introduction one-day course is on Tuesday 24th October in Covent Garden, London 9.30 to 4pm – this replaces the one on October 6th. Circle Solutions is a safe, solution-focused strengths-based framework for social-emotional learning. This day is the pre-requisite for the two-day Trainer program that accredits participants to train schools. Maximum of 25 participants and minimum of 6, and there is an early bird offer of £120 per person. Circle Solutions changes culture, builds connection and boosts wellbeing. Book here, or email sue@sueroffey.com if you need an invoice.

Conference

The Re-Inventing Education one day conference is in London on Saturday 23rd September. Readers of this newsletter can get a 35% discount using the code BACKTOSCHOOL. I am giving a keynote in the morning on Tweaking or Transforming? (You can guess which one gets my vote!) Booking is here.