Table of Contents
About this session
This series explores how strong relationships with both families and students create the foundation for effective teaching, student wellbeing, and long-term success. These two practical online sessions will examine how trust, communication, and partnership can strengthen school communities and improve outcomes for young people.
What you will gain
- Greater understanding of the role relationships play in successful schools
- Practical approaches to building trust with students and families
- Strategies for navigating challenging conversations and situations
- Ideas that can be implemented immediately in your school or classroom
Date & Time
Thursday 5 November, 4:00–5:00 pm (China Time)
How Relationships with Families Play the Second Most Vital Role in Private School Teaching
This session will explore the importance of building strong, trusting relationships with families in an international school context. We will look at how effective communication, transparency and partnership with parents can strengthen student support, build confidence in the school and help navigate challenging conversations. We will also share practical examples from our own leadership experience at Harrow Beijing.
Thursday 19 November
How Relationships with Students Play the Most Vital Role in Teaching
This session will focus on why positive relationships with students sit at the heart of effective teaching and learning. We will explore how knowing students well, establishing trust and creating a sense of belonging can influence engagement, behaviour, wellbeing and academic outcomes. We will also share practical strategies and examples that colleagues can take back into their own classrooms and schools.
About the speakers
Zahara Sattar
Zahara Sattar is Deputy Head of Upper School at Harrow International School Beijing, with responsibility for academic leadership across the Upper School. She has extensive experience in teaching and school leadership in the UK and internationally, with particular interests in teaching and learning, professional development, inclusion and building strong school communities. Zahara holds a Master’s in Educational Leadership and is also an ISI-trained BSO Team Inspector.
Benjamin Aspin
Benjamin Aspin is Director of Sixth Form at Harrow International School Beijing. He works closely with students and families throughout the Sixth Form journey, supporting both their academic development and preparation for life beyond school. His role places relationships with students and parents at the centre of supporting young people to thrive academically and personally.
