Summary

In this episode, Martin and Poppy interview Robbie O'Connell, a positivity primary principal. Robbie shares his career journey, starting with his background in social work and transitioning into teaching.

He discusses the challenges and rewards of being a school principal and the impact he has on his students. Robbie also shares his favorite memory of seeing the smiling faces of students returning to school after the COVID-19 pandemic and the hardest moment of breaking the news to a class that he would be leaving. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of building connections with students and the role of educators in shaping their lives.

In this conversation, Robbie O'Connell, a primary school principal, shares his insights on leadership and well-being in the education sector. He discusses the importance of taking breaks, using a diary for organization, and maintaining a reflection journal. Robbie emphasizes the need for perspective and prioritizing time in order to manage the stress and demands of the job.

He also highlights the significance of setting a positive example for staff and prioritizing family time. Overall, Robbie's advice centers around maintaining balance and well-being in both personal and professional life.

Takeaways

• Robbie O'Connell started his career in social work before transitioning into teaching and becoming a school principal.
• As a school principal, Robbie emphasizes the importance of building connections with students and being present in their lives.
• The impact of educators goes beyond academics and can greatly influence the well-being and happiness of students.
• Robbie's favorite memory is seeing the smiling faces of students returning to school after the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Breaking the news to a class that he would be leaving was one of the hardest moments for Robbie, highlighting the strong bond between teachers and their students. Take breaks and prioritize self-care to manage the demands of a leadership role
• Use a diary for organization and reflection journal for positive mindset
• Maintain perspective and prioritize time to manage stress
• Set a positive example for staff and prioritize family time