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 two sides to an ‘open door’ policy in leading schools
Many school leaders promote that they have an 'open door' policy but what exactly does this mean? Interpretations of having an 'open door' are somewhat mixed. To many teachers, a school leader having an 'open door' policy is a signal that means the leader is approachable, open to feedback and available to give guidance to... Continue Reading →
Communication – to do it well, it takes time
Communication is such an important element of leading schools successfully, yet the amount of time we spend planning communication is grossly underestimated. Good communication within and external to a school can not just keep stakeholders informed of what is going on, it can create action when needed, establish a school's identity, purpose and direction, as... Continue Reading →
Cover the bases – the need to understand all aspects of our schools
To have a successful school, it requires leaders who are abreast of how everything in a school works. Schools are highly complex places where poor decision-making in one area of the school can have significant impact on another. Schools are complex in that external forces that either mandate or create pressure for change on certain... Continue Reading →
Difficult conversations when to hold them and when to fold them?
As a school leader, solving problems, moving initiatives forward and supporting colleagues requires difficult conversations from time to time. Reflecting further, depending on how much is going on in our respective school environments, it can appear at times the a number of difficult conversations are necessary in a short period of time. Without a doubt,... Continue Reading →