Case Study

Transforming Vision into Impact in Professional Learning

Professional Learning

Conferences

Teamwork

Strategic Planning

Leadership

Regional Impact

Event Design

Thomas Edison’s insight, “Vision without implementation is hallucination,” serves as a powerful reminder that translating intent into action is crucial for achieving meaningful outcomes.

This case study explores how a thought partnership approach was used to help educational organizations move from the initial intent of professional learning initiatives to effective implementation and measurable impact.

Many educational institutions express strong intentions to enhance their professional learning practices, yet struggle to translate these aspirations into tangible improvements. The challenge was to bridge the gap between the vision of improved professional practices and the actual impact within the school environment, ensuring that professional learning efforts led to significant, positive outcomes. Strategic approaches included:

1. Facilitating a Thoughtful Review Process The first step was to engage in structured conversations with educational teams to assess current practices and identify areas for improvement. Using a review tool, these discussions focused on:

  • What is working?

  • What is working so-so?

  • What is not working?

  • How do you know?

  • Suggestions for improvement.

This comprehensive review process allowed for deep analysis, ensuring that the feedback was actionable and directly linked to practical realities within the educational environment.

This case study reflects one year’s annual event planning cycle with the project, ELMLE, a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing middle level education. ELMLE's annual conferences, initially held in Brussels, and leadership retreats have been hosted in various European cities such as Barcelona, Stockholm, Frankfurt, Vienna, Zurich, London, Paris, Budapest, Prague, and Porto, offering participants rich cultural experiences. These events feature renowned speakers like Judith Baenen, Julie Stern, Carol Ann Tomlinson, Mark Church and Ewan McIntosh, along with hundreds of ELMLE teachers who share their expertise in workshops and job-alike sessions.

It is thanks to the continued support of all ELMLE steering schools, and all steering committee members that this project continues to thrive. Sarah Plews, founder of SP Consultancy, has been a Steering Committee member since 2020, and became President in 2024.

Facilitating a Global Learning Community on Planning and Evaluating PD

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This case study reflects the project with PeerSphere.

What people are saying...

  • “I am grateful we have met as your constant enthusiasm, kind generosity and availability to always listen to the crazy ideas has made me become a better professor. I am forever grateful! You are awesome!"

    Professor Veronica Orvalho
    Science Faculty, University of Porto

  • “All staff feel effectively guided and supported by the Professional Development for Growth and Learning Leader. During staff interviews, teachers stated that professional development is one of the driving factors in improving the standard of teaching and learning at the school.”

    Council of International Schools
    Evaluation Report 2020, on in-school leadership impact

  • “What I found unique about Sarah is her strategic thinking ability while simultaneously paying close attention to the minute details in the implementation process. Her capacity to manage intricate elements without losing sight of the overarching strategic goals is a quality that sets her apart.”

    Hui Min
    Vice President, Atlas & MiniPD, Faria Education Group

  • "Sarah is a standout consultant, coach & facilitator in the field of international education and professional learning."

    Hui Min
    Vice President, Atlas & MiniPD, Faria Education Group

  • “Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and I feel certain that they will take their own work and leadership to new heights following the excellent training you delivered, Sarah. I look forward to a positive working relationship with you in the future.”

    Dean Moore
    Head of School, British International School of Mabella, KAA Middle Leader Programme

  • “During staff interviews, teachers stated that professional development is one of the driving factors in improving the standard of teaching and learning at the school.”

    Council of International Schools Evaluation Report, 2020
    on in-school leadership impact

  • “Sarah… I cannot begin to tell you how moved I was by the children's words and actions. Their engagement speaks volumes about the quality of your teaching staff and your leadership.”

    Dr. Heidi Hayes-Jacobs
    ASCD author & founder of Curriculum Designers Inc.

  • “The best thing about the programme was you, Sarah. You’ve been sincere, genuine and down to earth. Not easy to find CPD delivered so well.”

    Middle leader
    British International School of Marbella KAA Middle Leader Programme

  • “It was evident through different meetings that all staff feel effectively guided and supported by the Professional Development for Growth and Learning Leader.”

    Council of International Schools Evaluation Report, 2020
    on in-school leadership impact

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