Nesan Govender, Principal, Ohinewai School
1. What made you decide to do Open-to-learning™ Leadership?
I had attended a previous workshop by Jacqui during my First-time Principals’ residential programme and was very intrigued by it. I signed up for the Hamilton sessions but was unable to attend as we were hosting an ERO Team at school at that time. When this opportunity presented itself, I jumped at the chance.
2. What does Open-to-learning™ Leadership mean to you?
Open-to-learning™ Leadership to me means not prejudging or adopting a closed mindset to any situation or interaction. It means allowing myself to actually listen to the other person, to value what they bring to the table. Personally I find this refreshing as I have been subjected to prejudice and have been dismissed without having been heard.
3. How will you use what you learned from the course in the next difficult conversation you will have?
I will be putting my active listening skills to use, for sure, but I will also not make assumptions about why people hold the views they have. Instead, I will ask to clarify. I will be reflecting on whether my theory-in-use matches my espoused theory - and look to make the necessary adjustments.
4. What aspects of the delivery of the course did you enjoy?
One bonus for us was the fact that Distinguished Professor Viviane Robinson herself took the first day. In addition, the hands-on approach was really good and getting to practise what was being taught was very useful.
5. Would it have been beneficial to have other staff members attend as a team on this course?
Absolutely - I would recommend this for the entire staff, not just a management team.