Step 2: Fostering a Shared Purpose - Educational Leadership Podcast with Dr Kulvarn Atwal

Fostering a Shared Purpose — Step 2 with Dr Kulvarn AtwalIn this episode of The No Silver Bullets Podcast, Paul speaks with Dr Kulvarn Atwal, Executive Headteacher of Highlands and Uphall Primary Schools in Redbridge. Known for his values‑driven leadership and research into teacher learning, Kulvarn explores what it truly means to build a shared purpose across two large and very different school communities.He explains why shared purpose starts with values, not actions, and how leaders can model those values so they cascade through every layer of the organisation. Kulvarn shares the story of taking on Uphall — a five‑form‑entry, high‑disadvantage, double‑RI school — and how deep listening, trust‑building and a relentless focus on teacher learning led to remarkable improvement, including disadvantaged outcomes above national advantaged averages.Listeners will hear practical advice on:Leading authentically across multiple schoolsBuilding trust in a struggling settingCreating one learning community while respecting contextStaying visible, calm and present as an executive leaderDesigning sustainable structures that outlast individualsA powerful, honest conversation about leadership, values and the real work of bringing people together around a shared purpose.Links:The Thinking School: Developing a dynamic learning communityThe Thinking Teacher: How to transform your mindset and your teachingFollow Kulvarn on X