Creating Value in Schools | Sustainability | People, planet and resources

Keep going: routes to sustainable improvement and finding your why

Paul K. Ainsworth shares his strategies for a sustainable, step-by-step, people-centred approach to school improvement. 
Tips from Paul
Be adaptable: there’s no one-size fits all approach to school improvement. Consider what’s needed for your context. 
Be consistent: consistency in schools is about a shared understanding and approach, rather than making everything identical.  
Be people-centred: evaluate with honesty, plan with empathy, execute with confidence and review with humility. 
Be a coach: your most important role is helping others improve, whether it's headteachers, senior leaders, or teachers. 
Think marginal gains, not silver bullets: there are no quick fixes. Focus on small, incremental improvements to create lasting, sustainable change. 
Find out more on Creating Value in Schools blog. 

The art of balance: survival skills for school leaders

How do you stay sane in the intensity of school leadership? In the second part of our conversation, Josephine Smith talks about knowing your priorities, knowing yourself and fostering balance. 
Tips from Jo:
Start with clear priorities: Use your school’s vision and development plan as a guide. 
Don’t get distracted: Politely delay less urgent requests, balancing the needs of others with your priorities. 
Manage your stress: Invest in mental health training for staff to better support themselves and each other.
Know your strengths: Be self-aware. Recognise when to delegate tasks and let your team shine. 
Practice self-care: Live out the work-life balance advice you give others. 
Find out more on the Creating Value in Schools blog.

Navigating the unexpected: advice for school leaders

A flexible, responsive school leader is going to stay so much saner.
Headteacher Josephine Smith shares what she’s learned about maintaining poise and positivity in the face of things you can’t control.
Top tips from Jo:
Accept that not everything in school leadership can be controlled. Unexpected events are part of the role! 
Embrace creativity when facing uncontrollable challenges. Try and view these moments as opportunities to think creatively and adapt.
Build a supportive professional network to share resources, seek advice and generate solutions. 
A strong network not only helps with practical problem-solving but also reduces the isolation that can come with being a headteacher. 
Find out more on the Creating Value in Schools blog.