Updated
|
How I Made Latin One of the Most Popular Classes
Discover the fascinating journey of how Latin became one of the most popular classes in my school. Join me as I share my experiences, strategies, and insights from my years of teaching Latin, and making it an engaging and sought-after subject for students.

I applied to teach at a private school in The Bahamas some years ago. During my interview, the head of school noted that I had a degree in Latin and Greek from McGill University. She exclaimed that she had always wanted her students to learn Latin. I looked at her, somewhat puzzled, and asked why she wanted Latin as part of her school's curriculum; she opined that it would help their SAT scores. I remember being skeptical about this claim, but I was more concerned about what the parents would think about having their children study a dead language. So, the head of the school called a meeting of the parents to discuss her proposed addition of Latin to the curriculum. Many parents expressed their concerns, but the head of the school was compelling in her arguments. As a result, I began teaching Latin to students in Grades 5 through 9.

Selecting a Curriculum

My next challenge, of course, was to select a Latin curriculum. Several courses were available, but I chose the Cambridge Latin Course. It enjoyed a good reputation. It was also very well laid out and organized. I made these choices in the 90s, so we were looking at the first or second edition of that particular curriculum. That was back when there was no such thing as a digital edition. Nowadays, the Cambridge Latin Course has a digital edition and a host of resources available on their website.

This video

. . .read more

Landing Your Dream Job in a Boarding School: Tips and Guidance

Updated
|
Landing Your Dream Job in a Boarding School: Tips and Guidance
Discover the secrets to successfully securing a teaching position in a private school with our comprehensive guide. We'll walk you through the online application process, offer tips on polishing your application, and provide insights into the specific requirements and expectations of boarding schools. Whether you're a seasoned educator or new to the field, this article will help you stand out and land your dream job in a boarding school.

If you haven't applied for a job in a couple of years, it's important to be aware of some key changes in the job application process. Nowadays, most job applications are conducted online, and applying for a private school job is similar in many ways to applying for a public school teaching position, with a few subtle differences. In this article, we'll guide you through the process and offer valuable insights to help you succeed in securing a teaching position at a boarding school.

Embrace the Online Application Process

The most significant change in recent years is the shift toward online applications. Boarding schools, like most employers, now expect candidates to apply through an online careers portal or recruitment platform. This approach streamlines the screening process, making it faster and more efficient. Unlike the days of mailed applications, today's process allows you to submit your information digitally, upload supporting documents, and track the status of your application.

Many independent schools also recruit through organizations such as the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) and Carney Sandoe & Associates, in addition to posting openings on their own websites.

This video from Indeed explains how the online application process works.

Polish Your Job Application

Your job application is your first impression, so make it count. It should shout, "I have the qualifications and experience you're seeking, and I'm excited about the opportunity

. . .read more

Nurturing Futures: A Journey through Boarding at Haut-Lac School in Switzerland

Updated
Nurturing Futures: A Journey through Boarding at Haut-Lac School in Switzerland
Nestled in the hills overlooking Lake Geneva in the French-speaking part of Switzerland lies an educational gem that embodies a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural richness and a profound sense of community. Founded over 30 years ago, Haut-Lac International Bilingual Day and Boarding School is now home to both 600 day students and a maximum of 30 boarders from around the world.

Read on to find out more about the distinctive boutique boarding experience at this family-oriented school, from its calming surroundings to the warmth of its community and the excellence of its education.

An Enchanting Location

Forget the hustle and bustle of city centers. Haut-Lac International Bilingual School's 5-star location at the heart of the Swiss Riviera treats staff and students to stunning views over Lake Geneva and the Alps beyond.

If you ever wondered why Charlie Chaplin and Henri Nestlé chose this scenic area as their base, just step out onto the school's secondary campus and boarding house terraces, and you'll have your answer.

The school's proximity to the lake and mountains offers both an inspiring backdrop for learning and a unique opportunity for students to connect with the natural world. Outdoor lessons, winter ski outings, and paddleboarding or hiking weekends with the boarders are a few of the many ways Haut-Lac uses the region's rich cultural heritage to create a stimulating environment that nurtures curiosity and a global perspective.

Nested in the heart of the Swiss Riviera

Caption: Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Riviera

If you're considering an international boarding school, you may also enjoy learning more about the many advantages of studying abroad.

Studying at Haut-Lac

As an IB World School accredited by the Council of International Schools, Haut-Lac's commitment to quality is second only to its passion for nurturing

. . .read more

What To Wear at Your Job Interview

Updated
|
What To Wear at Your Job Interview
Navigating job interviews can be stressful, but knowing what to wear shouldn't be. Our comprehensive guide covers the essential dress code tips for men and women interviewing at boarding schools. Make your first impression count with style and professionalism.

It's tough enough getting an interview in the first place.

  • Why ruin your chances by turning up in the wrong attire?
  • Because you are applying for a teaching position in a boarding school, you must be particularly aware of how you dress.

Why is how you look important? The first impression an interviewer has of you is a lasting one.

  • This snapshot of you must convey a positive image of who you are and the value you bring to the situation.
  • Indeed, many hiring decisions are made subconsciously as soon as the interviewer looks at you.
  • Because the job market is highly competitive, your primary goal is to have the first interview go so well that you make the shortlist for the second interview.
  • The way in which you dress is one part of the picture your future employer will have.
  • Make sure that you create the very best impression possible.

Dress to the level of the job environment.

Teachers are exemplars to the young people they teach.

  • The way you dress sets an example, just as your speech patterns do.
  • It is always sensible to dress conservatively when you interview for a teaching position.
  • Nor does it matter what that position is.
  • Whether you are applying for the Spanish teacher position or the Robotics teacher position, you must present yourself as a professional brimming with ideas and values that will make employers immediately think, "Ah! She will fit right in."
  • Your role extends from classroom teaching to
. . .read more

Emerging Challenges for Boarding Schools

Updated
|
Emerging Challenges for Boarding Schools
Explore the pressing challenges facing boarding schools, from marketing difficulties and rising insurance costs to facility maintenance and recruitment of competent trustees and teachers. This article delves into these complex issues and proposes innovative strategies to overcome them.

In the vast and evolving educational landscape, boarding schools have stood as beacons of tradition, discipline, and academic rigor.

  • These institutions not only provide quality education but also foster personal development, independence, and resilience in students.
  • However, boarding schools are currently navigating a complex maze of challenges.
  • The obstacles are multifaceted, from marketing difficulties and rising insurance costs to facility maintenance and recruitment of competent trustees and teachers.

This article aims to delve into these challenges and suggest potential solutions.

Marketing Challenges

Historically, boarding schools thrived on word-of-mouth marketing and their reputations for producing well-rounded, academically accomplished students.

  • However, shifting societal norms, increased competition, and the rise of digital media have disrupted these traditional strategies.
  • Boarding schools now face the challenge of attracting a diverse student body, both domestically and internationally, while also addressing concerns about the value of the boarding school experience.

To overcome these challenges, schools need to adopt personalized admissions processes that highlight the unique benefits of their institution.

  • Furthermore, leveraging digital marketing strategies, such as social media and content marketing, can extend their reach to prospective students and parents.
  • Crucially, boarding schools must work to create unique selling propositions that distinguish them from their competition and resonate with today's discerning families.

This video offers suggestions for marketing your school.

Rising Costs of Liability and Property Insurance

The increasing liability and property insurance costs pose significant challenges for boarding

. . .read more

Recent Articles

AI Rules at Boarding Schools: A Guide for Families
AI Rules at Boarding Schools: A Guide for Families
Learn what families should ask boarding schools about AI rules, academic integrity, student learning, discipline, data privacy, and teacher oversight.
What Happens When a Boarding Student Wants to Leave Midyear?
What Happens When a Boarding Student Wants to Leave Midyear?
What happens when a boarding student wants to leave midyear? Learn how families can assess the problem, work with the school, and plan a responsible exit.
How to Evaluate a Dorm’s Social Climate Before Enrolling
How to Evaluate a Dorm’s Social Climate Before Enrolling
Learn how to evaluate a boarding school dorm’s social climate, including friendships, supervision, inclusion, conflict resolution, and student belonging.

Article Categories