Leadership in schools is both a privilege and a challenge. Whether you're stepping into your first headship or refining your leadership style, the following 50 insights—gathered from experienced school leaders and educators—are designed to help you thrive, stay grounded, and lead with integrity.
Leading with Purpose and Vision
- Develop relationships with all school stakeholders.
- Spend time developing and sharing your vision.
- Ensure everyone understands your shared goals.
- Take your time to learn about the school—ask, listen, observe.
- Culture eats strategy for breakfast—nurture it.
- Evolution, not revolution. Be patient with change.
- Make a realistic schedule that includes others on the journey.
- Never forget what an honour it is to serve.
- Children first, always.
- Headteacher = Head Teacher. Keep the learning at your core.
Building Relationships and Trust
- Check in with every teacher, every day.
- Visit every class and the playground regularly.
- Get to know everyone—staff, students, parents, and community.
- Talk to the office staff and site team. They are essential.
- When at all feasible, keep your office door open.
- The new headteacher never criticises the previous one.
- Lead with empathy.
- Be yourself and connect with others.
- Humans first, professionals second.
- SMILE.
Learning, Listening, and Growing
- Do not arrive thinking you know everything. Stay curious.
- Ask questions before making decisions.
- Listen carefully. Pay attention.
- Find mentors, networks, and support groups.
- Keep reading—stay informed and ahead of the curve.
- Invest in your own growth.
- Be modest and humble.
- Follow the advice of school specialists—it’s not you (yet!).
- Join leadership communities or masterclasses, such as
👉 “Navigating Leadership Challenges with Viv Grant.”
Modeling Leadership and Well-Being
- Role model sensible working hours.
- Encourage a culture of staff well-being.
- Purchase more teaspoons—you’ll be glad you did!
- Lead by example, not by force.
- Don’t feel pressured to teach to ‘set an example.’
- Trust in your team’s expertise.
- Positive change should be exciting, not fearful.
- Changes shouldn’t be made just for the sake of it.
- Maintain high standards with flexibility and compassion.
- Put students first to support adult accountability.
Decision-Making and Prioritisation
- Take your time when making decisions.
- Remember: inaction is not the same as doing nothing.
- Don’t make long, unrealistic to-do lists.
- Prioritise. Don’t take on too much at once.
- Don’t agree to staff requests in the corridor.
- Get a thorough handover or induction.
- Understand the school before referencing 'At My Other School'.
Leadership Values
- Humility, honesty, and trust are your leadership anchors.
- Be patient—everyone is at a different point on the journey.
- Sweep the sheds. (From Legacy by James Kerr) – no task is beneath you.
- Please, do not be an idiot.
Final Thought
Leadership is not about perfection—it's about progress, connection, and care. Surround yourself with good people, take advice humbly, and lead from a place of integrity and service.
For further guidance, tools, and leadership support, consider joining a trusted network such as:
👉 The Headteacher Chat Community
Connect with other leaders, access leadership CPD, and share the journey together.