Guest: Nick Hart, Executive Headteacher of the Alwyn and Courthouse Federation in Maidenhead and a visiting fellow for Ambition at the time of recording, and author of two books on school improvement and culture. Published 10 March 2023.

What this covers

  • Reassurance that any leader can get better at leading culture.
  • What makes a difference to a school's culture and climate.
  • Nick's argument that "putting children first" is misunderstood: if leaders put staff first, adults and children both flourish.
  • Practical ideas for improving culture and climate, including what went well and badly in his own experience.

About the session

Lucy and Jonathan are joined by Nick Hart to discuss how to create a positive culture within school.

Nick Hart

Nick is the Executive Headteacher of the Alwyn and Courthouse Federation in Maidenhead and a visiting fellow for Ambition, teaching on the NPQH and NPQEL. Nick is one of the organisers of researchED Berkshire and has written two books - Impact: a five part framework for making a difference in schools, and Building a strong culture in schools.

They discuss:

  • Reassurance that we can all get better at cultural leadership.
  • Knowing what makes a difference to culture and climate.
  • Ideas for how to improve culture and climate.

‘Putting children first’ is a misunderstood sentiment. If leaders put staff first, they can build a strong culture and positive climate that results adults and children flourishing. This story includes triumphs and failures, good decisions and terrible decisions, and clear pathway to improving the culture and climate in our schools.

You can find both of Nick's books in our bookshelf section of this website.