Schools are complex working environments and leading change in schools is far from a straightforward process. Yet, where possible, we look to simplify things, as we form mental models, classify and categorize, and aim to be both effective and efficient. Sometimes, investing the time and resources to gaining a deeper and greater understanding of something... Continue Reading →
School leaders spend a lot of time developing strategic plans, setting goals and writing action plans. Often the best laid plans and intentions are often derailed and not realised owing to the constant struggle to maintain focus and keep on track. This, to a large extent, is precipitated by the number of 'other' matters that... Continue Reading →
The purchase of new school materials to support student learning is the subject of much discussion among educators. Oftentimes, conversations center on there being inadequate resources in many of our schools. This may certainly be the case in a number of schools, but there are some cases where schools waste the resources that they are... Continue Reading →
What will happen? How will they react? How will I be viewed? These are some of the questions that will go through the minds of school leaders when faced with making courageous decisions, or engaging in difficult conversations where feedback needs to be given to a colleague. There is a genuine sense of fear, which... Continue Reading →
A large number of schools use teacher surveys for different reasons during a school year. To some teachers on the receiving end, it can feel like there are a lot of surveys to complete. Requests to complete surveys do not solely come from within the school, with education bodies, education researchers and conference and workshop... Continue Reading →
With schools being complex organisations, it can feel like school leaders are trying to herd cats at times. As leaders, we seek to exert a degree of control in our schools, so that there is a semblance of order and prevention of organizational chaos. In trying to keep a degree of order in schools, a... Continue Reading →
Much is said in the media about schools being stressful places and, perhaps, education is nearing crisis point in terms of what is being asked of teachers. Workload is an issue that simmers on and, if not addressed, can have a significant impact on staff morale and school culture. It is, therefore, of little surprise... Continue Reading →
One of the things I encourage teachers to do when they consider the impact of their actions on student learning is to look at themselves through the eyes of the student. This can make all the difference in changing practice and improving learning outcomes for students. In many ways, it is part of a shift... Continue Reading →
There are lots of things that we would like to improve in our schools. At times, being an educational leader feels like being in a whirlwind of change; there is never any let up, as school improvement occurs at a relentlessly fast pace. Despite what can be seen as a manic level of effort, a... Continue Reading →
