He isn’t everyone’s jam, but I reckon Robbie Williams is one of the world’s great live performers.
His story to and beyond stardom is jaw-dropping and it’s little surprise that movies and documentaries have spawned from his escapades.
Of all the hit songs that Williams has penned and sung, there’s one that stands out for me. I saw Williams recite this poem he wrote in a press conference once when asked whether his days at school helped or hindered him in his career pursuits.
Hello Sir – Remember me?
I’m the man you thought I’d never be
The boy who you reduced to tears
The lad called ‘Thingy’ for six whole years
Yeah that’s right, my name’s Bob
The one who landed the popstar’s job
The one who you told, ‘Look don’t touch’
The kid who wouldn’t amount to much
Well I’m here and you’re still there
With your fake sportscar and receding hair
Dodgy Farah trousers that you think are smart
Married to the woman that teaches art
Married to the life, married to the school
I want to sing and dance sir, now who’s the fool?
Sing and dance? You thought I was barmy
‘Settle down Thingy, join the army!’
And who are you to tell me this?
The dream I want I’ll have to miss
Sir is God, he’s been given the right
To structure lives overnight
Now I know life’s true path
Tanks and guns, that’ll be a laugh
No, not me. I’m a mega civilian.
I won’t lead my life riding pillion
But thanks for the advice and I’m sure it’ll do
For the negative dickheads just like you
As for now, I’ve a different weapon
Stage and screen is about to beckon
And here I sit in first class
Bollocks sir, you can kiss my arse
It’s a stark and pertinent reminder that kids leave school in roughly three groups:
- Those whose school helped to propel them toward a preferred
- Those whose school propelled them toward a non-preferred
- Those who succeeded despite their school.
That third group are the loudest about schools and they also often have both a microphone and an audience handy. Robbie Williams is their group president.
Sure, targeting the largest number of kids in your school leaving as members of Group 1 is good for them. But it’s better for the reputation of our profession too.
Do you need to change groups in your classroom?
Keep fighting that good fight,
P.S. Sheepishly sharing this quick video highlighting the keynote speaking component of my work here.
If you’re one of those great folk arranging an education conference or event in 2025 and beyond, I’d love to work with you to make it a belter.
If you’d like to chat about a speaking gig, just email info@realschools.com.au, or take a look here.
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