Elna takes up watercolour painting

 She made me a beautiful Xmas card.

Some of her other beautiful creations.

Young Woman and the Sea - what a movie!

I just watched Young Woman and the Sea (2024), and found Gertrude Ederle’s story incredibly inspiring. As the first woman to swim across the English Channel in 1926, she didn’t just complete the grueling 21-mile journey—she shattered expectations. Battling strong currents and freezing waters, Ederle finished the swim in 14 hours and 34 minutes, beating the existing men’s record by nearly two hours. At just 20 years old, she proved not only that a woman could do it, but that she could do it better, making her a trailblazer in both sport and history.

New York Parade in honour of her

Gavin's new book is complete and ready for launch

Very exciting !!

School can be tough, but so are kids. Trailblazing teacher Gavin McCormack offers a brand-new approach to how we equip the next generation with the skills they need to become capable, confident and compassionate human beings.

Is your child struggling in the classroom, facing mental health or social challenges, or feeling discouraged? Do they dread going to school? Award-winning teacher and principal Gavin McCormack offers a long-awaited solution for concerned parents and educators seeking effective ways to support kids during these challenging times. He believes when children are given independence, the right tools, and the encouragement to build on their strengths, their potential is limitless. His 7-step guide redefines what it means to receive a `good education’ by highlighting the power of modelling positive behaviour and prioritising essential life skills over academic scores. Drawing on the latest neuroscience of learning and years of teaching experience in mainstream and Montessori schools, he offers practical strategies that will help children navigate life's challenges, learn with passion and grow into well-rounded, resilient individuals.

Celebrating Gavin's 7 day fast with only water

Gavin was still on a high from his fast and I must say he looks pretty good for someone who didn't eat for so long. We visited the Glebe market after a lovely lunch at a local cafe.

Gavin's amazing course: Write a book to change the world

Gavin has created so many amazing courses on Upschool but the one that has captured my imagination the most is his "Write a book" course where he teaches kids to create a book using Canva. He organised with Canva, the great online design site that Jo loves so much, to give away free Canva subscriptions to every Upschool student. So many sublime, creative books have been created by children throughout the world, available to be viewed and ordered via the Upschool Library . The course has been so successful that Canva even made a very generous offer to buy Upschool! 

 

Mary-Anne's sublime art

Mary-Anne has suddenly become  a prolific and sublime artist. It's incredible how much stunning work has flowed through her in just months. Her art fills me with nostalgia and appreciation for the beauty of South Africa.  I feel very inspired and proud to know her.

Her work is available from Etsy.