CIEC 2025

This presentation explores how personal stories can break down barriers and build empathy. Participants will learn effective ways to share their narratives, amplify their voices, and create inclusive environments. Through inspiring examples, I will outline a step-by-step process for applying storytelling techniques. This session is ideal for educators, advocates, and anyone interested in using storytelling to create understanding and awareness. The goal is to equip attendees with practical strategies to promote empathy and help others articulate their own stories.


Learning outcomes
-Increased Confidence in Sharing Personal Narratives: Participants will gain the skills and confidence to articulate their own stories effectively.

-Enhanced Understanding of Storytelling Techniques: Participants will learn practical methods for crafting and sharing narratives that promote empathy and connection.

-Improved Skills in Amplifying Others’ Voices: Participants will develop techniques for helping others share their stories."

Picture books are powerful tools for introducing sensitive topics across all grade levels, providing a visual and narrative framework for complex discussions. The intended audience is Early Years through middle school and beyond. Our workshops will be discussion based with time for participants to explore what teaching with picture books looks like in their context.    
Booklists
- Develop comfort and confidence in using pictures to tackle potentially difficult conversation topics.
- Participants be able to create a stack of books
- Enjoy great books

The workshop will explore the concept of wellbeing and the different facets of it using the PERMA model as a reference point. It will be a research-based and interactive workshop on the benefits of having a dedicated focus on wellbeing in educational institutions. Anecdotal information on the challenges and successes in establishing a Centre for Wellbeing at Footprints International School will also be shared. Anyone tasked to take care of the general wellbeing of students and staff will benefit. This includes teachers, specifically Homeroom teachers, counsellors, nursing staff, and those responsible for nutrition and supplying meals or snacks. Attendance by members of the management team is also encouraged.


Learning outcomes
Outcome 1. Understand how the focus on wellbeing can benefit the whole school as well as the value it has as a preventative measure to prevent mental health problems from escalating and how to support students in managing their emotional challenges effectively.
Outcome 2: Appreciate the correlation between student wellbeing and academic success.
Outcome 3: Become aware of how prioritising wellbeing can change the culture of a school."