The Problem

We are facing a once in a generation challenge in education. The problem is threefold, educational inequality, unsustainable leadership and system fragmentation.

Education in the UK has an inequality problem. A child from a disadvantaged background is less likely to attend a high performing school, is four times more likely to receive an exclusion and is, on average, 18 months behind by the time they sit their GCSEs. Without urgent action we risk leaving a generation of children behind. Unfairness in education long predates the pandemic but over the last few years existing gaps have become chasms.

Headship serving disadvantaged communities is as tough as it gets. We face complex challenges against the backdrop of enduring societal issues. Success is ill defined so the pool of applicants willing, and able, to take the risk of stepping into school leadership is small. For those who take the leap of faith, the lack of training, support and systemic pressure can hinder efforts and reduces longevity in role. Too many simply burn out or leave the profession. Retention rates have been falling steadily since 2012 and this is particularly bad for schools in difficult circumstances. There must be another way.

England’s system for training, supporting and challenging headteachers is like a jumbled jigsaw puzzle. After generations of systemic tinkering some things fit together whilst others don’t. Cumbersome central government, sclerotic unions and well-meaning third sector organisations all clamour to offer solutions. Top-down approaches, dogged by special interests and bureaucracy, have failed to provide the system what it needs.

As a grassroots network of practising headteachers and education leaders, we have a wealth of experience of successfully leading schools and have a deep understanding of how to make positive change happen.