🤔Is a modern approach to leadership more effective than a traditional one, or is there an argument for a blend of both?
💡 Authoritative vs. Collaborative 💡
❓ Old: The CEO/headteacher/principal knows best and makes all decisions.
❓ New: Leaders empower teachers and staff, fostering a culture of shared decision-making. For example, where where subject leads come together to create curriculum plans and resources.
💡 Micromanagement vs. Trust 💡
❓ Old: Constant oversight and control of teachers' methods. This might include having tight policies on pedagogy, curriculum planning and implementation, marking policies.
❓ New: Providing autonomy and supporting professional growth. Teachers can choose how they plan and implement the curriculum.
💡 Rigid Hierarchy vs. Flat Structure 💡
❓ Old: Top-down communication and strict chain of command.
❓ New: Open dialogue across all levels, valuing diverse perspectives eg communication channels work both ways feeding up and down
💡 Standardisation vs. Personalisation 💡
❓ Old: One-size-fits-all approach to teaching and learning. This is often hotly debated. Is it better to standardise pedagogy and/or curriculum? Is it inequitable to pupils to allow teachers to decide how to teach their lessons?
❓ New: Embracing constructivist leadership to cater to individual student needs. Eg teachers expected to adapt their approach according to the needs of their pupils.
💡 Reactive vs. Proactive 💡
❓ Old: Addressing issues as they arise.
❓ New: Strategic leadership style focused on long-term planning and continuous improvement
The most effective school leaders today are those who can adapt their leadership style to meet the evolving needs of their school community. They're transformational, inspiring change and fostering innovation.
🤔 What styles do you employ when leading your schools?
🤔 What's your take? Is it time for a leadership revolution in our schools?