Written by
Utha Vallade
Associate Assistant Principal, MFL Teacher and Network Leader for Step Up
As teachers, we often find ourselves wondering if we are ready for a leadership role. From my experience, it’s that feeling of boredom with our current responsibilities, or when daily tasks start feeling too easy. We may also worry about making mistakes, but deep down, we know it’s because we understand the weight of our additional responsibilities. Moreover, if our colleagues regularly seek our advice and support, it’s a clear sign that we are already leaders, irrespective of our job title. This realisation sets us on a path that demands courage, clarity and commitment: the journey from main grade teacher to leadership, where we can make a profound impact on the lives of students, colleagues, and the education community as a whole.
There is an abundance of routes into middle and senior Leadership, ensuring that there is a perfect fit for each aspiring leader.
When an established leader offers to mentor you, it’s an opportunity you should graciously accept. However, pledge to pay it forward by opening doors for those from under-represented groups. Diversity in leadership strengthens our educational institutions and fosters a more inclusive environment for all stakeholders.
For those driven by research and evidence-based knowledge, enrolling in a leadership course that aligns with their interests can be immensely beneficial. The Department for Education offers a wide range of National Professional Qualifications (NPQs)¹ to choose from. Additionally, schools within multi-academy trusts (MATs) often provide coaching, in-house leadership courses, or access to networks that can support your leadership development. Reach out to the teaching and learning leads in your school to explore these opportunities further.
Some education unions also offer first-class CPD programmes, which can equip us with the necessary skills and knowledge for potential leadership positions. Make it a habit to regularly visit your union website and sign up for relevant courses. The Chartered College of Teaching² is another valuable resource offering opportunities for growth and development to their members. Alternatively, there are now many independent organisations⁴, led by trailblazers who recognise the importance of diversity in schoolleadership. They offer tailored leadership courses specifically designed to empower and support individuals from under-represented groups who may constantly be denied opportunities for growth in their current schools.
Whichever route you choose, it’s important to keep a watchful eye on available roles advertised on the Teaching Vacancies Service³ or TES websites. Explore in-house opportunities as well, even if they may not align perfectly with your current leadership aspirations. Sometimes, the greatest learning experiences come from unexpected opportunities that challenge you beyond your comfort zones. Embracing such experiences, while continuing to develop yourself, is a strategic move to honing your leadership skills and being ready to seize future leadership opportunities.
In the face of the ongoing recruitment and retention crisis, I believe that it is imperative for schools to create an environment conducive for growth and to make leadership roles more appealing. We must all advocate for and support the teachers who courageously express their desire for leadership. This starts with schools offering comprehensive and high-quality CPD programmes that equip teachers with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience necessary for leadership positions. It’s also essential to create meaningful opportunities for shadowing, enabling aspiring leaders to gain first-hand experience and insights into their desired roles. By integrating these opportunities into the existing Performance Management cycle, schools can seamlessly align teachers’ professional growth with their improvement plan targets, benefiting their development,students’ outcomes, and the wider community bycultivating, in-house, a community of passionate and dedicated leaders.
In conclusion, securing a leadership role requires a combination of courage, clarity and commitment. Embracing mentorship, pursuing relevant courses and qualifications, and proactively seeking professional development opportunities are essential steps in positioning yourself for success. As you embark on your own leadership journeys, remember that continuous learning and personal growth are fundamental to your success. Together, let’s embrace this transformative journey, constantly develop our leadership skills, and shape the future of education for generations to come.
³https://teaching-vacancies.service.gov.uk/
⁴
Step Up Network CIC 
Leave a comment