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Find a selection of our archived articles below:
December 2023
The True Gifts: What Do You Really Want?
As we navigate the final weeks of term towards the yearned-for Christmas break, there's a fundamental question that we rarely give deep thought: What do we really want?
In education, we can often turn our attention to the big systemic issues which are, in the main, beyond our immediate control: OFSTED reform, increased funding, easier recruitment, accessible external services, and so on.
November 2023
A Culture of Belonging
A half-term in, now is a good time to reflect on how much your colleagues feel that they are integral to something meaningful, that their contributions are valued, and that they truly belong to your school/trust community. The feeling of belonging not only enriches the lives of individuals but also has profound influence on professional dynamics.
October 2023
I first came across the beach ball metaphor at a local TeachMeet back in the noughties. I’ve regularly revisited it since, with students, colleagues and coachees… and this month, I’d like to bounce it your way.
Just as you can't see all the colours on a beach ball from a single position, you can't fully understand a complex issue by looking at it from only one angle.
September 2023
Stepping Out, Stepping In
July 2023
As we approach the end of term, the focus on “getting everything done” for a hard stop can feel like we’re approaching a brick wall at breakneck speed. Tasks and jobs get squashed into these final weeks of term and we summon all our energy to race this last leg at full speed. “Come on! Keep Going! Nearly there!”
June 2023
May 2023
This month, we’d like to invite you to consider your role as a Spotlight Director for staff within school, too: how often, and in what proportion, do you direct light on colleagues’ talents and challenges...
April 2023
The Time You Enjoy Wasting
And so we arrive at the Easter break. Two weeks to decompress. Perhaps you have plans for family get-togethers and religious celebrations. Days are warmer and longer and ripe for the taking...
March 2023
Make Do and Mend
Ever feel like you’re scrabbling around for scraps of cloth to cover the needs of the school? You are not alone. We have been speaking with lots of leaders in schools who feel this way...
February 2023
Ain't Got No Money
As members of the largest UK teachers’ union strike to protest against a chronic shortage of funding and a national recruitment and retention crisis, let us reflect this month on one of the most challenging aspects of school leadership, at all levels: managing budgets...
January 2023
Behind The Mask
As we return to school, this common question will most often lead to a quick civil exchange, “Yes, thanks. You?” And we will go on our way. But couldn’t this be an opportunity for something better, more engaging than a simple courtesy?
November 2022
Every Leader is Telling a Story
In the words of Walt Disney, “Every leader is telling a story… about what he or she values.” What will people read into you? More importantly, what is at the core of the story you want to tell?
October 2022
It's a Marathon not a Sprint
We all know mental health is a priority, and schools are being asked to assign a Mental Health Lead by 2025. Whilst the focus of this role is largely to provide our children and young people...
September 2022
Begin with the End in Mind
Political ideology aside, I hope you can take inspiration from her Majesty’s example of servant leadership, and check-in with the end you have in mind for 2022-2023, so you can start this academic year with confidence and a clear sense of purpose...
July 2022
Passing on the Baton
As the Commonwealth games get underway in Birmingham, at Leadership Edge, I too am passing on the baton. Maybe there are readers amongst you who also will also be passing on the baton at the end of this term - and maybe taking hold of a new one...