Post by Ian Keary

I recently resigned as Headteacher after nearly 10 years. But what happened after I told the Chair of Governors tells you everything you need to know about real leadership. The news is officially out: I'm leaving The Tiffin Girls’ School. The advert is live. https://lnkd.in/eQkZvjNp When I informed the Chair of Governors (Sarah Beeching FRGS, FRSA), she had every right to focus solely on the process: the vacancy, the timeline, the crisis. Instead, her response was this: - She took time to ask me genuinely how I was. - She reflected on our long journey working together and the school’s achievements in that time. - She thanked me for my service and commitment to the school. - She even had the presence of mind to suggest I get executive coaching to navigate my transition. I was astounded. Appointing a Headteacher is the most critical job a Chair of Governors has responsibility for. Yet, her immediate focus was on the person, not the process. It reminded me of Maya Angelou's words: 'I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.' The lesson for every leader is this: empathy is not a soft skill; it's a strategic asset. It's the difference between managing a transaction and shaping a culture that outlasts you. The Tiffin Girls’ School is a special place with a motto: sapere aude - dare to be wise. It deserves an exceptional, values-driven individual who will care for it. If this culture of supportive leadership resonates with you, dare to push yourself out of your comfort zone and go for it. I did a decade ago. I leave a better person. I will never forget how Sarah made me feel, especially at that pivotal moment. #Leadership #Culture #ExecutiveCoaching #Headteacher #Education