One of the major benefits of attending national conferences is that you often meet inspiring colleagues. When Frank attended an Association of Education Advisers conference in Manchester he had no idea he would end up chatting with Emily a Headteacher of a small independent alternative provision.

The discussion focused on values, principles and aspiration and was fascinating in terms of how her career had led to her current exciting role. Then Emily dropped into the conversation that she was deaf! The conversation continued but I wanted to know more about her career journey, where she had taught and had she been deaf since birth etc. Well, all of these questions are answered in this inspiring chat. It made me realise even more how lucky I was to teach, to lead and to be able to work alongside inspiring people.

In terms of the regular chat issues I referenced a recent article in the TES involving Prof Peter Etchells where he encourages us all to step back and reflect on the use of digital devices. Emily considers how effective the Access to Work scheme is in reality. She also tells us more about her love of riding and the struggles she has faced in setting up and leading an independent school.

If you listen to only one Frank and Stan Chat this year (we obviously hope you will listen to them all) then this is the one that will leave your heart uplifted and filled with promise.

Enjoy.