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…
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…
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…
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…
One of the most frustrating aspects of being a leader in a school is seeing so many improvements that can be made. When I first embarked on my education leadership journey, I wanted to change the world and I wanted to change everything that I felt could and should be improved. Soon enough, I began…
