Helen Bowen, Head Teacher at King’s College India, shares how leading a sunrise Tide Walk encouraged educators to pause, reflect and build connections at the TAISI conference.

Finding Connection Beyond the Conference Sessions

A simple walk along the beach became an opportunity for educators to slow down, reflect and connect at this year’s TAISI conference. For Helen Bowen, Head Teacher at King’s College India, the experience showed how small moments can create a lasting sense of community.

After attending the TAISI conference last year, I was keen for King’s College India, which recently celebrated its 10th anniversary, to become a member. This year, as Head of School, I was invited to speak at the conference.

About TAISI

The Association of International Schools in India (TAISI) was established in 2005 to connect schools, build capacity and ensure educators on the ground have a voice in shaping the direction of education. Each year, its conference brings together a wealth of experts from across the globe.

From Supporting a Session to Leading the Tide Walk

Initially, I thought I would be assisting Deniece Wheeler, Global Development Director for COBIS, with a yoga session. I don’t practise yoga regularly, but with my theatre background and a few years of contemporary dance, I thought, why not?

This then developed into a 6:30am session. I was still expecting to be the assistant when TAISI called and asked if I would lead the Tide Walk.

Something different. Something new. Despite the early start, I was intrigued. So, of course, I said, “Why not?”

With three prompts, Walk, Notice and Arrive, I began planning. I wanted it to be different from meditation or yoga. I wanted people to stop, listen, notice and connect, while also exploring a sense of balance.

Walk, Notice, Arrive

At 5:45am my alarm went off. By 6:15 I was heading towards the beach, unsure how many people, if any, would appear. A soft haze hung in the air. By 6:25, people began arriving.

We gathered in a circle, closed our eyes and listened to the morning sounds and gentle waves. Then we turned towards the ocean, forming a long line of around 30 people, shoulder to shoulder.

The three prompts shaped the experience. Participants were encouraged to move at a slower pace and pay attention to their surroundings. Moreover, the walk offered a chance to step away from the busy conference schedule.

Messages in the Sand

Walking along the beach, we were asked to notice tiny details we might normally overlook. We watched fishermen pulling in their nets and gathered again to reflect.

Thinking about a time of challenge or struggle, participants wrote in the sand the message they would have wanted to read on that day. The messages were hopeful, encouraging and supportive.

Finally came balance. Participants created their own balances and then connected with others to create something together. Seven people joined hands at the shoreline, balancing on one leg. They called me over to join them. It was a simple, beautiful moment of unity.

Small Moments That Build Stronger Connections

The Tide Walk lasted less than an hour, but the conversations continued throughout the day. New friendships formed, and participants reflected on the importance of pausing, noticing and appreciating what surrounds us.

I had worried that people might not understand what I was trying to create. Their reflections went far beyond my expectations.

For educators, conferences offer valuable opportunities to exchange ideas and learn from colleagues. However, informal experiences can also help build relationships and create a stronger sense of belonging.

The Tide Walk was a reminder that connection does not always require a formal session or structured discussion. Sometimes, taking time to notice the world around us can open the door to meaningful conversations.

Sometimes, you simply have to say, “Why not?”