I want to share with you the power of leadership in schools.
As a headteacher, I took a leadership approach, which comes from my belief that a leader in school or any walk of life is a servant to their team.
Co-author Micky Mellon often said he was a ‘helper’ rather than a football ‘manager’. When you teach a class, talk to middle leaders or hold a senior leader meeting, your role is to help the people you are there to get the most out of.
A mantra you can take is to show kindness through being a servant.
Servant leadership is a powerful way for school leaders to create a culture of kindness and empathy. In this blog, we will explore how school leaders can exhibit kindness through the principles of servant leadership, ultimately creating a more nurturing and effective educational ecosystem.
The Power Of Leadership In Schools.
Servant leadership is a leadership style that prioritizes the needs of others over one’s own. Robert K. Greenleaf coined it in the 1970s, and it has since become a fundamental approach in various industries, including education. The core idea behind servant leadership is that leaders should serve their team members and empower them to reach their full potential.
1) Leading by Example
Kindness starts at the top. School leaders can set the tone by modelling the behaviour they wish to see in their staff and students. By exemplifying acts of kindness, leaders create a culture where kindness is the norm. This can include being respectful, appreciative, and considerate in daily interactions with teachers, students, and parents.
2) Listening and Empathising
One of the most essential aspects of servant leadership is the ability to actively listen and empathize with the needs and concerns of others. School leaders should create a safe space for open, honest communication where teachers and staff feel heard and understood. Empathy is a cornerstone of kindness, as it helps leaders better connect with their team and respond effectively to their needs.
3) Supporting Professional Development
Servant leaders invest in the growth and development of their team members. By offering opportunities for professional development, school leaders show that they care about the success and well-being of their staff. This helps teachers improve their skills and demonstrates a genuine commitment to their welfare.
4) Providing Resources and Guidance
Kindness can also be expressed by offering resources and guidance to support teachers in their work. Whether it is instructional materials, mentorship, or emotional support, servant leaders ensure their team members have the tools they need to thrive in their roles.
5) Fostering a Collaborative Environment
Servant leaders promote collaboration and teamwork. They create an atmosphere where teachers feel valued and encouraged to work together. By breaking down silos and promoting a sense of unity, school leaders foster an environment where kindness and support become the norm.
6) Recognizing and Celebrating Achievements
Acknowledging and celebrating the achievements of teachers and students is a simple yet powerful way to show kindness. Servant leaders take the time to recognize and appreciate the efforts and successes of their team members, which boosts morale and reinforces a positive culture within the school.
Conclusion: The Power Of Leadership In Schools.
Kindness is a cornerstone of effective leadership, and it can be exemplified through the principles of servant leadership in the school setting. By prioritizing the needs of others, actively listening, supporting professional growth, providing resources, fostering collaboration, and celebrating achievements, school leaders can create a culture of kindness that benefits not only the staff but also the students and the entire school community.
Schools led by servant leaders who prioritize kindness can become safe havens of support and encouragement in a stressful and challenging world. By embracing servant leadership, school leaders can leave an indelible mark on their institutions and contribute to their students’ and staff’s growth and well-being.
CEO Phil Denton
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Thank you for your kindness
Your Kindness Coach
John