Where are you on your coaching journey? If you are just starting out you may not know yet what coaching is, how it differs from mentoring, and what it looks like in schools and colleges. Here is my simple 4 step plan for success.
Step 1: Be a self-directed learner.
Coaching is about growth and improvement and a good coach needs to be a good role model. Your first step is equipping yourself with some background knowledge on coaching, and demonstrating your desire to learn and grow. Try these three books. Start with TEACHER Coaching which covers many coaching models, including the TEACHER coaching model. Next step is to consider the Art of Coaching by Elena Aguilar, and finally Jim Knight and the Definitive Guide to Instructional Coaching
Step 2: Connectedness.
Coaching is about relationships. What better way to learn about coaching than in the presence of others on a coaching course. Insight 2 Execution lead the Microsoft Certified Coach course. The 2 day in person course is supported by interesting webinars and online communities, where you will be able to connect and learn from amazing coaches from all over the world. You will learn about the ISTE standards, but can also consider them in detail on this site.
Step 3: Get out and coach.
Coaching is about helping others unlock their potential. It is an approach where you actively listen to others and support them as they choose their goals by discussing options and forming plans. Many modern forms of mentoring look like coaching. Relax! Don’t worry whether you are coaching, mentoring or instructional coaching. Hone your coaching skills by listening to people and seeing how you can help them achieve their goals.
Step 4: Share your success.
Coaching comes in many forms: business coaching, life coaching, instructional coaching, executive coaching, transformative coaching, TEACHER coaching etc. Trust is a key element in a coaching relationship. Accreditation can help build trust in a coach. After attending the Microsoft Certified Coach course, you are encouraged over a period of just under a year, to build an evidence portfolio, outlining your coaching and how it demonstrates the ISTE standards. Once your submission has been reviewed you will receive your Credly badge, and your T shirt!!! Share your success and hopefully inspire others to start their coaching journey.
TEACHER Coaching 