The summer holidays are here. A chance for FE staff and students to recharge before the new academic year. It’s also the perfect time to take a step back, find fresh inspiration, and refocus on what really matters.
We’ve put together a collection of powerful talks and speeches from some of the most influential thinkers, leaders, and storytellers of our time. Each one is available on YouTube, so you can watch, reflect, and maybe even spark a few ideas for the months ahead.
1. Sir Ken Robinson – Do Schools Kill Creativity?
One of the most-watched TED Talks ever! Sir Ken Robinson challenges the way we think about education and champions creativity as a core skill for the future.
Watch here:
2. Steve Jobs – Stanford Commencement Address
Apple co-founder Steve Jobs shares three personal stories about life, love, and loss — and why you should always “stay hungry, stay foolish.”
Watch here:
3. Admiral William H. McRaven – Make Your Bed: Change the World
In this stirring commencement speech, Admiral McRaven shares life lessons from Navy SEAL training — starting with the humble act of making your bed.
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4. J.K. Rowling – Harvard Commencement Speech
The Harry Potter author reflects on the benefits of failure and the power of imagination to change the world.
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5. Randy Pausch – The Last Lecture
Delivered while battling terminal illness, Carnegie Mellon professor Randy Pausch’s talk is an unforgettable lesson in achieving dreams and living with purpose.
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6. Angela Duckworth – Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance
Duckworth explains why talent alone isn’t enough — and why grit is the true predictor of success.
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7. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie – The Danger of a Single Story
A moving talk on the importance of diverse perspectives and the harm of stereotypes in how we see others.
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8. David Foster Wallace – This Is Water
An insightful reminder about awareness, choice, and the small decisions that shape our lives. Often animated beautifully online.
Watch here:
So, whether you’re a student preparing for your next step, a teacher reflecting on your practice, or simply someone looking for inspiration, these talks are a reminder that education doesn’t just happen in the classroom. It’s a lifelong journey of curiosity, resilience, and creativity.
This summer, take a moment to watch, think, and maybe even share one of these talks with someone who needs a boost.