Leadership confidence and leadership capability do not rise together in a straight line. Most new leaders feel most confident early on, before they have met the real complexity of the role.

Many leaders can quickly identify the challenges within their team. Fewer can confidently describe the unique strengths each person brings. Strong leaders know that school improvement is not just about fixing weaknesses. It is about recognising, utilising, and developing strengths.

“I have an issue I want to talk to you about. First, I’m going to describe what’s going on from my perspective. Then, I really want you to tell me your thoughts and feelings about it afterwards. Once we’ve both shared, we can plan a way forward together.”