Written by

Charlotte Coppenhall

Educational Freelancer, former Primary Headteacher

“If you’re good enough, you’re old enough”

Sir Matt Busby

This quote is certainly true of many young teachers aspiring to become leaders in education; there are dedicated young people already making their mark in leadership roles in schools around the country.

Although always aspirational, I didn’t start with headship in mind, or teaching at all in fact! A last-minute change of direction from stage school to primary education led me on this pathway and I haven’t looked back (although dance, drama and song featured heavily in my classrooms!). As a child I often role-played ‘schools’ with my sister – I had to be the teacher! Funnily enough she also became a teacher, even joining my team, so I didn’t put her off! This, along with the chance to shape the future in some small way, inspired me to pursue a career in teaching.

After entering the classroom I realised very early on I wanted to be a leader. I was trusted with a number of responsibilities and as my experience built, so too did my self-belief. Before I knew it, I was leading several teams and loved being able to make meaningful changes, not just for the sake of change. This is where a desire for senior leadership began.

“You don’t look old enough” and “I’ve been teaching longer” are phrases that spring to mind. As a younger teacher seeking leadership, I was almost forced to prove myself simply due to my age. Once I stopped taking these comments to heart, they only pushed me to drive even harder.

If you have a passion and desire for leading change, shaping teams and the drive and get-up-and-go to move things forward, then that’s the right starting place to be. Grab opportunities with both hands, the more you do and experience now, the easier it will be in the future. Remember, adults are really just big kids, so apply the same thought processes when leading others. Positive praise, taking the time to listen and being a guide and coach when needed go a long way. Absolutely go for it!