Headteacher coaching

Talented and not sure how to proceed? Headteachers are encouraged to identify and nurture talented individuals. If chosen, you may be confident and happy to engage with a National College programme like Accelerate to Headship or go for NPQH. Or you may feel uncertain. Other people's expectations may not match your plans; encouragement becomes pressure. Coaching can help to clarify your aspirations and allow you to assess opportunities objectively; develop a career plan if appropriate; and resolve any potential conflicts, eg between a desire for family and career progression, or faith school vs community school. Make sure decisions honour your true values. Coaching sessions cost £60 an hour, face-to-face or 'phone.

NPQH qualified and not a head?  The pressure is on to find future leaders. 1:1 coaching allows you to check whether going for headship really is appropriate for you now - or may be in the future. And if leadership doesn't feel right, coaching helps to clarify and articulate your reasons. If you decide to go for headship, or seek more experience elsewhere, a coach keeps you motivated and focused while applying for posts. During coaching, you will become very clear about your abilities, values and beliefs. Despite competing demands from your current job, taking time out with coaching support will result in sustained action. We also offer practical CV and application help. Make sure you select the most appropriate vacancies and are successful at interview. Cost of 6x 1-hour sessions and follow-up £400.

New Headteacher?  10 monthly sessions, starting once appointed, when National College support ceases, or when facing new challenges. Typically a mixture of face-to-face sessions (90 mins) and ‘phone calls (60 mins), with follow-up email contact.  Independent coaching provides support for clarifying your leadership style and team dynamics, solving transitional problems creatively, establishing priorities and making the most of opportunities. You will develop skills and strategies to meet the future with confidence. A truly confidential service allowing freedom to challenge the status quo, think the previously unthinkable, and become a genuinely transformational leader! Coaching £800. Headteachers in Secondary Schools may contact Linda Neal directly (See Associates page).

Leading a school with difficulties?  Expert advisers help to provide ideas to turn a school around but the emotions of a Headteacher in this situation may be overwhelming, with feelings of failure shared by the staff.  A trained coach will help anyone affected to acknowledge the issues, decide what really matters and start to regain some control.  Then provides support to consider the way ahead - to learn different coping strategies and re-engage, or to make an informed decision about an alternative future.  Coaching can also provide techniques for headteachers dealing with other staff facing challenges and teach specific skills to use and pass on. Cost £60/session.