Set Up: To Lead

We know that navigating the ever-evolving landscape of education can be a challenge and at SET we have made a commitment to foster distributed leadership because we know that it enhances educational practice.   Our first SET Up to Lead programme for our Deputy and Assistant Heads ensures that we are nurturing talent and fostering professional growth within our organisation. 

Central to this leadership development programme was an exploration of the Education Endowment Foundation's (EEF) Implementation guidance. As a trained Evidence Advocate for Cambridgeshire Evidence Network, I am keen to share the knowledge that I have gained. This evidence-based approach provides a robust framework for introducing and sustaining positive changes within our schools. By equipping our leaders with these invaluable insights, we are ensuring that our educational initiatives are not only well-conceived but also effectively implemented and sustained over time.

The first session in this programme delved into the intricacies of change leadership, a critical skill in today's dynamic educational environment. Our leaders were encouraged to reflect on and develop the essential traits that align with our Trust's values. This focus on character development, coupled with strategic leadership skills, positions our team to navigate challenges with resilience and vision.

A key aspect of effective leadership lies in the ability to engage and unite people around a common goal. This skill was a focal point of our training, emphasising the importance of clear communication, shared vision, and collaborative effort. By honing these abilities, our leaders will be better equipped to inspire and motivate their teams, fostering a sense of collective purpose and shared achievement across our Trust.

In our pursuit of evidence-based practices, the COM-B model was introduced to our leaders. This behavioural science framework provides a structured approach to understanding and influencing behaviour change. By incorporating COM-B into our leadership toolkit, we are enhancing our capacity to implement meaningful changes that resonate with our staff, pupils, and the wider community.

As we move forward, the impact of this leadership programme will undoubtedly ripple through our schools. The enhanced skills and insights gained by our Deputy and Assistant Heads will contribute to more effective decision-making, improved strategic planning, and ultimately, a richer, more supportive learning environment for our pupils.

By investing in our leaders, we are investing in the future of our schools and the success of our pupils. Together, we are building an educational community that is not only responsive to current needs but also proactively shaping the future of education. SET Up to Lead has been designed so that it specifically meets the challenges that our leaders are facing and provide them with the skills and knowledge to create change and have impact.

Elaine Crane
Director of Education