Redhill recognised for innovation in education

Internationally awarded educator speaks about innovation, values, and the future of schooling 

Fresh from receiving the GESS International Award for Outstanding Contribution to Education, Redhill School Executive Head Joseph Gerassi sat down for an in-depth conversation about innovation, educational leadership, and the responsibility schools hold in preparing young people for an uncertain world. 

As a South African leading a school recognised on the world stage, why do you believe this award matters right now? 

It signals that South African schools aren’t simply looking outward for inspiration. We certainly learn from countries like Finland and other global leaders in education, but we aren’t limited to that. Innovation is being generated here too, and it’s being recognised internationally. That’s reassuring for families who want to know that schools in this country are willing to adapt, reflect, and keep children at the heart of every decision. 

The judges highlighted innovation and impact. In a crowded education landscape, what sets your leadership philosophy apart? 

My approach is simple: purposeful change grounded in humanity. Innovation should never overwhelm childhood. It should support it. We constantly ask ourselves why we do things and whether they still serve young people in a fast-changing world. That kind of reflection keeps us honest and keeps us moving forward. I also believe that you cannot lead a school from behind a desk. Leadership means being fully engaged across all phases of school life, from the crucial foundation years to the rigorous academic stretch of the senior school. 

Many families place strong emphasis on values-based education and social responsibility. How does Redhill nurture these elements? 

Values are lived, not displayed. They show up in the small moments. How we treat one another, how we resolve conflict, and how we make decisions that affect young people. We focus on empathy, respect, intellectual honesty, and ethical leadership. Students learn to think critically and understand perspectives that differ from their own. They also develop self-assurance and a sense of agency. When they leave Redhill, our aim is that they feel prepared to face the world outside our gates with confidence and resilience. 

Safety, belonging, and emotional well-being are priorities for parents today. What does Redhill offer in this regard? 

Social and emotional well-being is as important as academics. A child who feels safe, supported, and understood will learn more deeply. We have invested in specialist staff, well-being structures, and daily routines that reduce unnecessary stress. Our diverse community adds richness too. Students see themselves reflected in the people around them, which strengthens belonging. 

Redhill has become known for academic excellence. How do you maintain top results while changing so much about traditional schooling? 

Innovation and excellence don’t compete with each other. In fact, they enhance each other. Better sleep improves cognition. Less “busywork” results in deeper understanding. Assessments that focus on mastery lead to students who actually know the content instead of performing under pressure. 

Our two pathways, the IEB (Independent Examinations Board) and the IB (International Baccalaureate), allow families to choose the route that best suits their child’s strengths and future plans. Academic excellence is the natural outcome of a system that honours the whole child. 

Your groundbreaking Reggio Emilia-inspired Early Learning Centre has been praised. What makes this approach so powerful? 

Young children are naturally curious. Sometimes they ask so many questions, you find yourself needing a third cup of coffee before nine in the morning. That innate curiosity is exactly what learning should build on. For me, the Reggio approach respects children as thinkers. The environment becomes a co-teacher. Light, space, nature, and materials are all intentionally designed to spark imagination and problem-solving. Children explore, construct, question, and collaborate while expressing ideas in many different ways. They develop confidence and creativity, and in doing so, learn how to learn. 

Redhill has launched the Redefine Education Conference, now seen as one of the most exciting platforms for future-focused thinking. Why is this important for families? 

At its core, the Redefine Education Conference isn’t about showcasing Redhill. It’s about opening access. We bring local and international experts in neuroscience, creativity, artificial intelligence, and well-being to our campus so that educators, families, and thought-leaders across the country can benefit from the most current thinking. The reality is that education is evolving quickly. Parents deserve a school and a sector that stays ahead of that curve, not one that catches up later. 

Any final thoughts? 

On a person note, to all educators – especially at this time of year – I want to say: your work matters deeply. Even on the days when it feels thankless, even when you are exhausted, your impact is real. Children notice. Families notice. The future notices. Education is long – often invisible – work, but trust me, your impact lasts for generations.