Understanding change: lessons for school leaders

There is no getting away from change — it is an inescapable part of educational life. The role of the School Leader is critical in managing this process effectively. In the main, however, their expertise lies in managing change in relation to the curriculum and pedagogy. They often only have a superficial understanding of the psychology and dynamics of supporting their key resource, their staff, through this process of change in the strive for school improvement. Stress is a by-product of change, and institutions deal with it in a range of ways. During high profile change, the School Leader themselves can become vulnerable. An important issue for discussion is whether anyone supports them during this period of change. Who minds the minders? This paper will examine the inter-relationship between the key players and the impact of change on staff, the barriers to change and lessons to be learnt