Teachers and educators across the Island are being invited to a free workshop by an international author on motivation and success in the 21st century.

The Author of the Art of Learning programme Lance King was invited to speak by Warwick Academy and will also address students attending the school and their parents.

The New Zealander has delivered his programme to over 180,000 students in over 20 countries and he also designed the IB Approaches to Learning programme being implemented in over 3,000 schools around the world.

Director of Staff and Student Development Jill Finnigan has invited him to speak to Bermuda’s teachers, students and parents several times and over the years he has delivered talks across public and private schools.

Ms Finnigan said: “Lance King was recommended by someone who had heard him speak at a teachers’ conference some years ago. The teachers’ workshop as about motivation and success — if children are motivated generally they will succeed.

“I always learn something new from him and he reminds you why you a want to be a teacher. He helps you realise you can always try new ideas. It is refreshing for the Island.

“He is a breath of fresh air, he is one of those really positive types of people. It’s a great opportunity and it’s a good way to get your leaning focused. Teaching and learning are the most important things.”

Mr King’s workshops for the students at Warwick Academy will focus on professional development and self motivation. He will speak on effective examination preparation for year 11 and 13 students about to sit external examinations as well as a workshop for pupils who are in the Learning Extension programme.

Speaking of the parents’ workshop, Ms Finnigan said: “It is all about useful tips for parents to encourage their children at home, get them organised and take responsibility for themselves instead of doing it for them. It’s about making students independent learners and making them more accountable with the help of school and parents.”

The free session for teachers, sponsored by Lancashire Group, takes place at Warwick Academy on January 31 from 9am to 1pm. The free parent evening is on Tuesday, January 3 from 6pm to 7:30pm. Mr King’s keynote speech can be viewed at www.taolearn.com

As part of Warwick Academy’s commitment to professional development, the school will be opening a “Reception Year” in September for children aged three to four. Newly appointed teachers for the year are heading to the UK to be immersed in a reception class environment and to learn about good practice in the early learning years.