Meet Lucy – The Creator of The Diary Toolkit
Welcome to the heart and mind behind The Diary Toolkit, Dr Lucy Kelly, an Associate Professor in Education at the University of Bristol, whose journey has been etched by the power of words and the quest for balance.
Lucy primarily works with PGCE Secondary English trainee teachers. She advocates that those in education should see themselves as their own biggest resource (inside and outside the classroom), prioritising their wellbeing from the outset.
Her main research interest is reflective practice as a positive tool for educator wellbeing, and she is Project Lead for the ‘Reimagining the Diary’ research project (now in it’s 7th year), using the multimodal Diary Toolkit and ongoing wellbeing CPD to support educators across the country. Drawing on her latest research and forthcoming book, Navigating Perfectionism in the Education Sector (to be published by Hatchette in 2027), Lucy is now thinking about how the Diary Toolkit can help teachers and students navigate their own journeys with perfectionism
Lucy has written numerous articles on educator wellbeing and reflective practice and presented her work on podcasts, at conferences and on the radio.
Captivated by Diaries, Shaped by Reflection
From childhood, Lucy’s fascination with diaries was ignited by her first ‘Forever Friends’ diary with its flimsy silver padlock. Within those pages, she discovered how her innermost thoughts found a safe haven, allowing her the space to explore feelings and reflect on changes that happened in her life.
A Curious Exploration Unveils Insights
A simple question: ‘Can a diary truly support educator wellbeing amidst the myriad of options available?’ led to the ‘Reimagining the Diary‘ project. With years of experience working with trainee teachers, Lucy recognised the transformative potential of reflective journaling. But it needed to create magic for each individual who used it, so how could she make that happen?
The Birth of The Diary Toolkit
Crafting Wellbeing, Fostering Transition
In a world filled with demands, Lucy’s personal struggles resonated. The passion to be a dedicated educator while nurturing personal wellbeing created an unceasing dance. And this dance birthed a revelation: Transition, that delicate bridge between giving and receiving care, needed a guiding hand. The Toolkit’s Transition tasks emerged – a support system to draw that essential line in the sand.
Empowering Educators, Celebrating Lives
The heart of this journey is empowerment. The Diary Toolkit is more than pages; it’s a celebration of educators, a spotlight on their extraordinary impact. With diary in hand, they craft their narrative, see their achievements unfurl, and navigate challenges with newfound clarity. Every entry whispers, “You matter, you’re enough.”
A Glimpse into the Future
The path ahead is filled with promise. After a few years of the Diary Toolkit being a commercial product, I am now able to bring it to you for free. Enabling both individuals and schools to prioritise their wellbeing. Research phases are still unfurling, touching lives in Gloucester, Slovakia, and beyond. Each step informs the evolution of this important tool, ensuring the Diary Toolkit touches the people who need it most. We are also working with schools in Bristol and trainee teachers at Southampton University and Teach in Kent. Kimberley Evans, CEO of Nourish the Workplace, uses the Diary Toolkit principles and activities in her training sessions with schools and individuals.
Beyond the Toolkit
Ready to Start a Journey Towards a Happier, Healthier You?
Take the first step and start your journey with The Diary Toolkit today.
Let’s raise a toast to your achievements, learn how to manage stress in a productive way, and take steps towards a healthier, happier, and more resilient lifestyle. Start today, because as tomorrow’s to-do list might tell you, procrastination is not part of the job description!