Speaker: Viv Grant, a leadership coach for headteachers; the Integrity Coaching Circles programme mentioned at the end is her own paid offer. Published 3 March 2026.

Viv Grant looks at how headteachers can handle the growing uncertainty and emotional demands of headship, look after their own well-being and reconnect with their core purpose, moving beyond coping and compliance to a more sustainable way of leading that allows for uncertainty, vulnerability and growth.

The session covers:

  • The hidden costs of leadership stress – Understanding how burnout affects not just you, but your entire school community
  • Personal growth through challenge – Reframing difficulties as opportunities for development and wisdom
  • The power of coaching circles – a model of professional intimacy and reflective practice designed specifically for school leaders
  • Reconnecting with your 'why' – moving beyond survival mode to remember why you chose education in the first place

Key Takeaways:

  • Understand the difference between coaching and supervision, and why both matter
  • Learn why self-care is never a selfish act – it's essential leadership practice
  • Discover how to create safe containers for processing the emotional and trauma-related demands of modern school leadership
  • Explore practical strategies for building a coaching culture in your school

Who It's For:

Headteachers, senior leaders, and anyone in education leadership who feels the weight of constant uncertainty and wants to lead with greater wisdom, authenticity, and well-being.

About the Speaker:

Viv Grant is a leadership coach specialising in school leadership well-being and reflective practice. She works with headteachers on the emotional demands of the role, helping them stay connected to their core purpose and values.

Viv Grant's Integrity Coaching Circles programme continues this work beyond the webinar.

Before you act on it: if stress is affecting your health, speak to your GP. The DfE's education staff wellbeing charter sets out commitments schools and employers can make on leader and staff wellbeing.