A Headteacher's Perspective Podcast

Headship is not simply a role you apply for — it is a responsibility you grow into.This podcast accompanies the Becoming a Future Head course and is designed for experienced leaders who are beginning to sense the call to headship. Through reflective episodes, each aligned to a course module, the podcast explores the moral, emotional, and strategic realities of leading a school.Listeners are invited to think deeply about leadership identity, purpose, culture, systems, decision-making, and sustainability. Episodes unpack what it truly means to hold vision, people, pressure, and accountability with integrity — without losing clarity, compassion, or self.This is not a podcast about shortcuts or slogans. It is a space for thoughtful reflection, honest challenge, and professional formation, supporting leaders to step forward with confidence, coherence, and moral courage.Best listened to alongside the course articles, videos, and workbook. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Stepping Into School Leadership is a weekly companion podcast designed to support teachers who are ready to grow their influence, deepen their confidence, and take their first steps into leadership.Each episode is released alongside the weekly course unit and workbook, creating a reflective space where we explore the ideas in more depth—what they look like in real schools, why they matter, and how you can use them straight away in your role.Across eight modules and forty thoughtfully structured episodes, we unpack:* the real meaning of leadership in schools* how to build credibility and trust* the practicalities of leading teams, projects, and change* how to communicate with clarity and confidence* ways to thrive personally and professionally* what the wider school system expects from its leaders* how to develop your own leadership identity* and how to build a portfolio that opens future opportunitiesThis is not abstract theory. It’s leadership you can feel, recognise, and apply.Whether you’re preparing for subject leadership, phase leadership, or simply want to understand what leadership demands—and what it can unlock—this podcast will guide you step by step.Each week, join me for honest reflections, practical tools, real examples, and the reassurance that leadership is not about title or status… it’s about mindset, influence, and growth.Listen, reflect, apply, grow.Your leadership journey starts here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

In this episode, we explore one of the most underrated leadership disciplines in schools: the ability to pause. When pressure rises, leaders are often expected to react instantly — to fix, decide, reassure, respond. But quick answers can narrow the problem, cloud judgement, and pull us into firefighting rather than leadership.This conversation digs into why wise responses matter more than fast ones, how to create space for thoughtful decision-making, and what it looks like to regulate the emotional temperature of a room. We explore the power of perspective, the courage of “I’ll get back to you,” and the art of widening the lens before choosing a course of action.If you’re navigating complexity, holding multiple demands, or simply feeling the pull toward constant urgency, this episode offers a grounded reminder:leadership isn’t about speed — it’s about steadiness, clarity, and the quality of our thinking.A short guide for leaders who want to respond with intention, not impulse. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

In this episode, we explore why Modern Foreign Languages are far more than curriculum content. We discuss the role of language in shaping identity, expanding cultural understanding and building confident communicators. For school leaders and MFL leads alike, this conversation reframes language teaching as a strategic act of connection, belonging and global awareness. A short, reflective listen for anyone wanting to elevate MFL from classroom subject to whole-school culture. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

The Excellent Teacher Programme is a structured, research-informed professional development journey designed to help teachers refine their practice, strengthen their confidence, and build the habits that lead to long-term excellence in the classroom. Created for educators at every stage of their career, the programme blends clarity, practicality, and depth, offering a sustainable pathway for continuous improvement.Each week, participants explore one focused aspect of effective teaching through a short video, a podcast version, and an accompanying written article. These sessions are intentionally concise, allowing busy teachers and school leaders to engage meaningfully in around twenty minutes. A downloadable workbook supports reflection, goal-setting, and the translation of new learning into purposeful action.Across eight modules and forty sessions, the programme examines the full landscape of professional practice — from the moral purpose of teaching and the science of how pupils learn, to planning, modelling, behaviour, inclusion, and the habits that sustain professional wellbeing. The aim is not quick fixes, but steady, deliberate growth that strengthens teaching in a way that is both achievable and transformative.Whether used by individual teachers, coaching pairs, phase teams, or whole-school staff, The Excellent Teacher Programme provides a coherent CPD spine that builds shared understanding, collective ambition, and a culture of ongoing development. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Here’s what December looks like on From a Headteacher’s Perspective.This short video walks you through a month created with intention—one that supports leaders through the busiest stretch of the school year with calm guidance, meaningful subject leadership development, international education insights every Saturday, and weekly DfE updates every Sunday.You’ll also see how we’re completing the 16-part Subject Leader Companion series with Reading, MFL and Phonics, and how December prepares us for a major new chapter in January: four video-based professional learning programmes designed for leaders who want depth without overload.If you’re looking for direction, clarity and a sense of community as we close the year, this video is your starting point. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Behaviour and attitudes aren’t built through systems alone — they’re shaped by the everyday habits, routines, and expectations that adults model and reinforce. In this in-depth episode, we explore how seemingly small behaviours form the foundations of school culture, pupil confidence, and staff consistency.* Why behaviour is a cultural signal, not just a management system* The subtle adult habits that make or break consistency* How leaders can create environments where expectations are lived, not laminated* Practical ways to strengthen attitudes, resilience, and readiness to learn* The connection between relational practice, fairness and emotional safety* Stories of how shifts in daily habits transformed whole-school cultureWhether you are a headteacher, deputy, pastoral lead, or classroom teacher, this episode breaks down what truly shapes behaviour — and how leaders can create a calm, purposeful school built on habits, not hype. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

A school’s success doesn’t come from strategy documents or slogans — it comes from people believing in a shared vision. In this episode, we explore how headteachers and senior leaders can build a vision that everyone — staff, pupils, governors, and parents — genuinely owns.* The difference between leadership and management in daily school life* Why coherence matters more than complexity in strategic planning* Practical ways to bring your vision to life across every layer of school culture* How to turn “vision statements” into living, breathing practice* Real examples of how shared purpose transforms teams and outcomesWhether you’re a headteacher shaping your school’s direction or a deputy learning to lead strategically, this episode explores how to unite vision, culture, and action. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Every team goes through seasons — moments when energy dips, curiosity fades, and the atmosphere feels heavier than it should. In schools, those moments matter. They affect children, culture, and the confidence of the adults working in the building.This episode explores what really happens when a team loses its spark — and what leaders can do to bring it back.* Why teams lose energy (and why it’s rarely about workload alone)* How trust, belonging, and psychological safety drive team motivation* Practical ways to rebuild connection through dialogue and shared purpose* How leaders can reignite curiosity without adding pressure* What it looks like when a team rediscovered its spark — and its impact on pupilsThis is a reflective, practical episode for headteachers, deputies, and anyone leading people through change. If your team feels flat, disconnected, or “not quite themselves,” this conversation will help you find a way forward. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Design & Technology is one of the most powerful subjects in the curriculum — a space where creativity meets problem-solving, where imagination turns into outcome, and where children learn to think like designers, engineers, and innovators. Yet in many schools, D&T is undervalued or misunderstood.In this episode, we explore what effective D&T leadership really looks like and why it matters for every child.* Why D&T is a vital part of a balanced, future-focused curriculum* How strong leadership elevates D&T from crafting to genuine design thinking* Practical ways to build progression, purpose, and pupil independence* How to strengthen teacher confidence in planning, modelling, and evaluating* What impact-driven D&T looks like in real classroomsThis is an episode for D&T leads, senior leaders, and headteachers who want a subject that develops creativity, resilience, and real-world thinking — and a leadership approach that helps ideas become genuine impact. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

A school’s success doesn’t come from strategy documents or slogans — it comes from people believing in a shared vision. In this episode, we explore how headteachers and senior leaders can build a vision that everyone — staff, pupils, governors, and parents — genuinely owns.* The difference between leadership and management in daily school life* Why coherence matters more than complexity in strategic planning* Practical ways to bring your vision to life across every layer of school culture* How to turn “vision statements” into living, breathing practice* Real examples of how shared purpose transforms teams and outcomesWhether you’re a headteacher shaping your school’s direction or a deputy learning to lead strategically, this episode explores how to unite vision, culture, and action. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Computing is one of the most dynamic subjects in the curriculum — but leading it well means going beyond programming. In this episode, we explore how computing leadership can unite creativity, problem-solving, and digital citizenship to help pupils thrive in a connected world.* Why computing leadership is about vision, not just vocabulary* How to balance creativity with technical fluency* Practical ways to make computing inclusive and engaging for all pupils* The role of computing in developing collaboration, resilience, and critical thinking* How confident leadership can turn code into curiosity across a school This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

The new Ofsted framework challenges schools to think differently about achievement. It’s not just about data — it’s about how pupils reflect, think, and connect their learning. In this episode, we explore why reflection is now central to progress, and how schools can evidence deeper learning without drowning in numbers.* Why reflection reveals more about learning than raw results* How to show progress through dialogue, curiosity, and self-evaluation* What Ofsted really means by “impact” in the new framework* Practical ways to help pupils articulate their own growth* How reflective cultures improve both teaching and achievement This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

PE isn’t just about sport — it’s about belonging, confidence, and lifelong wellbeing. In this episode, we explore what it means to lead PE with purpose: ensuring every pupil, regardless of ability, experiences success, health, and joy through physical education.* Why PE is a cornerstone of wellbeing and inclusion* How to balance participation with performance and excellence* Building a culture of health, not hierarchy* Practical ways to strengthen curriculum, clubs, and staff confidence* The long-term impact of strong PE leadership on pupils’ lives This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Being a deputy headteacher means living in the space between — supporting the head’s vision while carving out your own leadership identity. In this episode, we explore the delicate balance deputies face every day: when to stand beside, when to step forward, and how to lead confidently without losing yourself.* How deputies can lead with both loyalty and independence* The art of balancing trust, challenge, and diplomacy* Why deputies shape school culture as much as heads do* Practical ways to manage the tension between strategy and daily demands* What true partnership in leadership really looks likeIf You’re Enjoying From a Headteacher’s Perspective…Thank you for reading and being part of this growing community of reflective school leaders.Each week, I share honest insights, practical resources, and grounded reflections that make the complex work of leadership more purposeful — and more human.Across the series, you’ll find:The Art of Headship/Deputy Headship — reflections on the heart of leadership, exploring values, culture, and the emotional realities of running a school.Subject Leader Companions — detailed guides and templates for middle and curriculum leaders developing strong subject vision and coherence.DfE Decoded — plain-language breakdowns of new DfE and Ofsted publications, with practical implications for real schools and trusts.Global Insights — lessons from international education systems and research that can inspire change at home.Leadership Briefings — clear, one-page summaries of national developments, funding announcements, and strategy updates to keep busy leaders informed.Join the ConversationIf you’ve found this post helpful, consider subscribing for free to receive new reflections every week — or becoming a paid subscriber for full access to leadership toolkits, CPD packs, and companion resources.And if you know a colleague — especially a middle or senior leader — who might value this space, please share it with them.Together, we’re shaping a culture of leadership grounded in reflection, compassion, and courage. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Curriculum design means nothing without great teaching — and great teaching needs curriculum clarity. In this episode, we explore how leaders can bridge the gap between intent and impact, ensuring what’s written on paper truly comes alive in classrooms.* Why curriculum intent must stay connected to classroom reality* How to align teaching, assessment, and subject leadership* The role of professional dialogue in turning plans into practice* Practical ways to evaluate curriculum impact meaningfully* Stories of schools where curriculum design transformed learningComing Friday for paid subscribers:The Curriculum and Teaching Self-Evaluation FrameworkA practical tool for leaders to review their curriculum coherence, sequencing, and teaching quality against the 2025 descriptors — including sections on foundation subjects, inclusion, and evidence preparation. Below is a small example of supportive documents, Friday’s will be more substantial, specific and wide-rangingUpgrade you r subscription here This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

For over a decade, “mastery” has shaped how we teach mathematics — bringing depth, precision, and structure. But mastery was never the final destination. In this episode, we explore how maths leadership can now move beyond mastery, towards nurturing true mathematical thinking: curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving at the heart of every lesson.* Why mastery was only ever the foundation* How to help teachers move from process to thinking* What it means to build a culture of curiosity in maths* The link between reasoning, representation, and imagination* How leaders can help staff see maths as something to be explored, not just taught upgrade your subscription here This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

In schools, true leadership isn’t just about accountability — it’s about protection. In this episode, we explore what it means when a headteacher chooses to protect their staff: standing between external pressures and internal wellbeing, and creating a culture of trust, fairness, and emotional safety.* Why protecting staff is a hallmark of courageous leadership* The balance between accountability and compassion* How protective leadership builds loyalty, confidence, and consistency* Practical ways to create a culture where staff feel genuinely safe to do their best work* The long-term impact of heads who lead with humanity This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

The new Ofsted framework places inclusion at the heart of school culture — but inclusion isn’t a paragraph in a report, it’s a daily act of leadership. In this episode, we explore how schools can go beyond compliance to create truly inclusive environments where every pupil feels seen, supported, and able to succeed.* What the new Ofsted framework says about inclusion — and what it really means* How leaders can turn policy into practical action across the school* The importance of staff confidence, culture, and curriculum in inclusion* Examples of schools breaking barriers for pupils who need it most* Leadership questions to help schools evaluate their own inclusion practice This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

History isn’t just about the past — it’s about perspective. The stories we choose to tell, and the ones we leave out, shape how pupils understand identity, belonging, and the wider world. In this episode, we explore how strong subject leadership in history can build both knowledge and empathy, helping schools create richer, more connected curricula.* Why story sits at the heart of historical understanding* How curriculum choices shape school culture* Balancing national narratives with local context* The role of subject leaders in connecting history to pupils’ lives* Practical ways to make history meaningful, inclusive, and coherent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

This article is also available as a podcast click here to listen.Behind many behaviour challenges lies something often overlooked — reading. In this episode, we explore the powerful connection between low reading age and poor behaviour, and why helping pupils read confidently may be the most effective behaviour strategy a school can use.* The research connecting literacy and behaviour* Why reading struggles often manifest as frustration or defiance* How leaders can make reading everyone’s responsibility* Practical interventions that rebuild confidence through language* Why behaviour policies must start with literacy, not punishmentThe full article canoe read here This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

What can UK headteachers learn from education systems around the world? In this first episode of the Global Insightsseries, we look at international research and practice — the successes, the challenges, and the lessons that act as a mirror for our own schools.* Why looking outward helps leaders see their own system more clearly* Examples of global approaches to curriculum, wellbeing, and equity* What the UK can learn from both strengths and mistakes abroad* How to use international insights to strengthen leadership at home* Questions every leader should be asking of their own school in light of global practiceThis article is the first in a new series exploring international education systems. Each week we will examine research and practice from around the world—celebrating what works, questioning what doesn’t, and holding up a mirror to our own system. Every post will include thoughtful questions for leaders to reflect on, helping us sharpen our practice in the UK. Please consider subscribing, either monthly or annually, to access the full series and receive these insights directly each week. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Making the move from classroom teacher to deputy head is one of the biggest transitions in education. It’s not just about new responsibilities — it’s about a new identity as a leader. In this episode, we explore what that journey really feels like: the excitement, the challenges, and the lessons no one tells you in advance.* How the role of deputy bridges staff and headship* The leadership skills that matter most in the transition* Common pitfalls — and how to avoid them* Why credibility comes from both expertise and humility* Stories from leaders who made the step successfully This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Headship is full of competing demands — inspection frameworks, staff wellbeing, curriculum priorities, community pressures. But the real strength of leadership is often found in the gaps: the quiet decisions, the unseen moments, the balance between one priority and the next.In this episode, we explore what it means to lead in the gaps, why those spaces matter, and how headteachers can turn tension into strength.* Why leadership is defined as much by the unseen as the visible* How to find clarity between competing expectations* The importance of reflective space for wise decisions* Stories of headteachers who thrived by leading in the gaps* Practical ways to turn tension into purposeful leadership* This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

The new Ofsted framework isn’t just about how schools are judged — it shapes the culture, priorities, and daily experiences of staff and pupils. In this in-depth episode, we explore how inspection frameworks influence school life, why culture matters more than compliance, and what leaders can do to ensure the framework works for them, not against them.* How inspection language filters into staffrooms and classrooms* Why culture is shaped as much by perception as by policy* Practical steps for leaders to align culture with purpose, not fear* The risks of letting inspection define the narrative of a school* How leaders can use the framework as a tool for improvement, not anxiety This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

This article is also available as a podcast click here to listen.Ofsted doesn’t just inspect schools — it shapes them through language. Every phrase in a report or framework carries weight, often saying more than it seems. In this episode, we explore how school leaders can decode Ofsted’s wording, understand the hidden signals, and prepare staff to respond with clarity and confidence.* The key phrases inspectors use — and their real implications* Why tone and wording matter as much as criteria* How to prepare your staff to “speak Ofsted” without losing authenticity* The risks of misinterpreting language during inspection* Practical steps for leaders to turn inspection language into strategy This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Science teaching often focuses on skills, experiments, and outcomes. But without story — the people, the discoveries, the moments of awe — science risks becoming flat. In this episode, we explore why story is as important as skills, and how weaving narrative into science lessons can inspire curiosity, deepen understanding, and connect children to the subject in powerful ways.* Why stories bring science to life for pupils* How narrative builds memory and meaning alongside practical skills* Examples of scientists whose stories spark wonder in the classroom* Practical ways leaders can embed story into science teaching* Why story and skills together create a richer curriculum This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Policies, priorities, and pressures shift constantly in education — but the most powerful gift a headteacher can give their school is consistency. In this episode, we explore why holding the line matters: how steady leadership builds trust, protects culture, and creates the conditions for staff and pupils to flourish.* Why consistency is the foundation of progress* The psychological impact of reliable leadership on staff and pupils* How inconsistency erodes trust and morale* Practical ways to hold the line under pressure* Stories of schools transformed by consistent leadership This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Behaviour policies often focus on control and compliance. But what if behaviour is really about belonging? In this episode, we explore how reframing behaviour through the lens of relationships and community can transform school culture — from punitive rules to practices that build trust, safety, and shared responsibility.* Why belonging is the foundation of behaviour* How rules without relationships fail to stick* Practical ways to create a culture of fairness and consistency* Stories of schools that shifted from compliance to connection* What leaders can do to make behaviour about inclusion, not exclusion This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Too often, writing in schools is judged by the final draft — neat, polished, and display-ready. But true writing success is measured in progression: the journey of ideas, vocabulary, structure, and confidence over time. In this episode, we explore why progression matters more than perfection, and how leaders can create a culture where children’s writing is valued as a process, not just a product.* Why focusing on “perfect drafts” narrows the purpose of writing* How progression builds confidence and creativity* Practical ways to track growth without stifling expression* The role of leaders in shaping assessment and expectations* Stories of how shifting the focus transformed writing outcomes This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Teaching is one of the most cognitively demanding jobs. By 8:30 a.m., most teachers have already lived a small lifetime of marking, planning, and juggling endless demands. In this episode, we explore how metacognition — the simple act of planning, monitoring, and reflecting on your own thinking — can help teachers not just cope, but thrive, on even the busiest days.* Why metacognition matters as much for teachers as it does for pupils* How to use simple reflective habits to manage workload* Practical strategies to pause, reset, and keep perspective* Ways leaders can model metacognition to build staff resilience* Why survival is not enough — teaching should be sustainable and fulfilling This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Every time Ofsted announces a new framework, it promises to mark a turning point. But does new language mean new thinking — or is it just the same old problems under fresh labels? In this episode, we explore the reality behind the rhetoric, what has genuinely shifted, and what school leaders must pay attention to as they prepare for inspection.* Why the new framework feels different in tone but familiar in substance* The persistent gap between inspection theory and lived reality* What school leaders should prioritise when planning for inspection* The risks of chasing labels instead of building culture* How to stay focused on what really matters for pupils and staff This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Safeguarding isn’t a checklist — it’s a culture. In this episode, we explore why every adult in school carries responsibility for keeping children safe, and why safeguarding works only when it becomes part of the daily fabric of school life. From the classroom to the playground to the office, vigilance and confidence must be universal.* Why safeguarding is more than compliance with policies* How culture determines whether staff act quickly and decisively* The role of training, challenge, and staff confidence in prevention* What leaders can do to embed safeguarding in every decision* Stories that highlight the difference between “box-ticking” and genuine culture This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Art lessons are never just about drawing or painting — they’re about learning to see. In this episode, we explore how using pairs of artists can open up children’s thinking, helping them compare, question, and understand the world in new ways. By placing contrasting but connected artists side by side, schools can spark the curiosity that makes art a lens on life.* Why “seeing” is at the heart of art education* How paired artists deepen children’s understanding* Examples of contrasting artists that inspire comparison* How this approach links with curriculum intent and progression* Why art is a powerful subject for building perspective and empathy This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Geography is too often squeezed out by the demands of English and maths, yet it is the subject that helps children make sense of the world they live in. In this episode, we explore why geography matters in primary schools, what happens when it gets sidelined, and how leaders can ensure it becomes the heartbeat of a broad and balanced curriculum.* Why children are natural geographers from the moment they start exploring* The role of geography in building cultural capital and confidence* How fieldwork and local studies make learning memorable* Why geography gives children agency in an interconnected world* Practical ways leaders can protect geography’s place in a busy timetable This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

September is more than just the turning of a page in the calendar — it’s a chance to reset the culture and priorities of a school. In this episode, we explore why every academic year deserves a fresh start, how leaders can use this moment to sharpen focus, and why clarity in September shapes everything that follows.* Why September is the most powerful month in the school year* How to reset staff expectations with fairness and consistency* Ways to re-energise leadership teams and pupils alike* The importance of visible routines and fresh commitments* How to build momentum that lasts beyond the first few weeks This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Curriculum leadership isn’t about paperwork or policies — it’s about holding the threads together so that every child’s journey makes sense. In this episode, we explore why subject and curriculum leaders are central to school success, how their work influences teaching at every level, and why now more than ever schools need to invest in their leadership.* What makes curriculum leadership different from classroom teaching and senior management* Why subject leaders often shape culture more than they realise* The challenges of balancing accountability with creativity* How schools can give leaders the tools and confidence they need* Stories of curriculum leadership making the invisible visible This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

As a new academic year begins, this newsletter-episode reflects on August’s themes and looks ahead to what September will bring for headteachers and school leaders. From the “why” of leadership explored last month, to the practical focus on curriculum and subject leadership this term, this is your guide to starting the year with clarity and purpose.* A quick look back at August’s big conversations* What to expect in September: curriculum, leadership, and national updates* The launch of the Subject and Curriculum Leader Series* Resources and templates designed to save leaders time* How free, paid, and founding subscribers will benefit this term This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Subject leadership is more than a title — it’s where vision meets practice. In this episode, we unpack the true weight and worth of subject leadership: the responsibility to balance curriculum ambition with classroom reality, to inspire colleagues, and to drive whole-school improvement through subject expertise.* What makes subject leadership such a demanding and rewarding role* How subject leaders balance accountability with support* Practical strategies to manage workload and influence without authority* The importance of subject knowledge, curriculum planning, and staff development* Why headteachers must invest in and support their subject leaders This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

This article is also available as a podcast click here to listen.New academic years often begin with lofty promises that fade by October. In this episode, we set out 10 resolutions for headteachers that are realistic, purposeful, and designed to last. From protecting wellbeing to prioritising classroom presence, these are commitments that genuinely make a difference — and that leaders can actually keep.* Ten practical resolutions every head can adopt this year* Why small, consistent actions matter more than sweeping changes* How to balance personal wellbeing with professional demands* Strategies for sustaining momentum through the whole year* Examples of resolutions that strengthen leadership and culture This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Headteachers may build their case with facts, policies, and logic — but in schools, emotions often carry the day. In this episode, we examine the tension between rational decision-making and emotional reality. From parent meetings to staffroom debates, we explore why understanding emotion is crucial for leadership, and how wise heads work with it rather than against it.* Why emotional responses can override logical arguments* The impact of emotion on staff, parents, and pupils in key decisions* How leaders can anticipate and navigate emotionally charged situations* Practical strategies for balancing empathy with authority* Stories of heads who learned when to let logic go and listen to feeling This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Every leader knows the moment: you’ve just had the hard conversation — with a staff member, a parent, or even a pupil — and then comes the lonely walk back to your office. In this episode, we explore that quiet space after conflict, when leaders carry the weight of their decisions alone. It’s a raw and honest look at the side of headship that rarely gets spoken about, but every leader recognises.* Why difficult conversations linger long after they end* The emotional cost of leadership silence* Strategies for processing conflict without burning out* The importance of support networks and trusted confidants* Stories that prove even in solitude, leaders are not truly alone This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Data, strategy, and policy guide school leadership — but instinct plays a bigger role than we often admit. In this episode, we explore why trusting your inner compass matters when the evidence is unclear, when decisions are finely balanced, or when time is short. Great leaders blend analysis with instinct, and knowing when to trust your gut is part of the art of headship.* Why instinct still matters in an age of data-driven leadership* How experience sharpens a leader’s inner compass* The risks of ignoring gut feeling — and the risks of over-relying on it* Stories of leaders who made the right call by trusting instinct* Practical ways to balance data, logic, and intuition in decision-making This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Headteachers often seek collaboration and consensus — but sometimes the toughest calls must be made alone. In this episode, we explore the reality of decision-making when the responsibility can’t be shared. From balancing competing priorities to carrying the weight of unpopular choices, we discuss how leaders can act with clarity, integrity, and courage when the buck truly stops with them.* Why some decisions can never be delegated or delayed* The emotional and professional cost of carrying sole responsibility* Strategies for making tough calls without losing perspective* How to communicate decisions with honesty and authority* Stories of leaders navigating the hardest leadership moments This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Every school depends on a steady stream of talented new teachers — but what happens when the system produces trainees who simply aren’t ready? In this episode, we take a hard look at the challenge of poor-quality teacher training, the impact it has on schools, and the questions it raises for recruitment and retention. With honesty and urgency, we ask what needs to change to ensure every trainee entering the classroom is equipped to succeed.* Why inconsistent training standards undermine schools and pupils* The impact of poor preparation on staff workload and morale* How headteachers and mentors can support struggling trainees* The role of government and providers in raising the bar* What this means for the long-term future of the profession This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Criticism comes with the job — but that doesn’t make it easy. In this episode, we explore how school leaders can handle criticism with grace, perspective, and resilience. From staffroom grumbles to parental complaints and public scrutiny, leaders often carry the weight of judgments others don’t fully understand. We’ll share practical approaches to listening well, responding wisely, and staying grounded in your purpose when the spotlight burns.* Why criticism often says more about context than competence* Strategies for receiving feedback without losing focus or confidence* How to respond with grace while holding firm to your values* The role of perspective in keeping criticism in check* Stories of leaders who turned difficult moments into growth This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

When politicians make big speeches about education, schools are left to deal with the reality. In this episode, we respond directly to the Secretary of State’s July 2025 speech — cutting through the rhetoric to examine what the promises, priorities, and policies mean for teachers, leaders, and pupils. It’s an honest, grounded take on how national announcements translate into the daily life of schools.* Key themes from the Secretary of State’s July 2025 speech* What the proposals mean for teachers, heads, and families* Where the promises align with school realities — and where they don’t* The risks of headline-grabbing initiatives that lack practical backing* How leaders can prepare their schools for what’s ahead This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

On paper, elective home education looks like a choice — but for many families, it’s anything but. In this episode, we dig into the reasons why increasing numbers of parents are turning to home education: school anxiety, unmet SEND needs, safeguarding concerns, and disillusionment with the system itself. Through real stories and honest reflection, we explore what this trend reveals about schools, support services, and the pressures families face.* Why more families are opting for elective home education* The difference between genuine choice and forced necessity* The role of SEND provision, attendance, and mental health in driving decisions* How schools and policymakers should respond with compassion and clarity* What this shift means for the future of mainstream education This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

Once held in high regard, teaching has too often been reduced to targets, league tables, and political soundbites. But teachers remain the people who shape every child’s future — and society’s too. In this episode, we ask what it will take to restore the esteem of teaching. From valuing professional expertise to celebrating the daily impact teachers make, we explore how the profession can reclaim its rightful place at the heart of the nation.* Why public perception of teaching has declined — and why it matters* How respect for teachers directly links to retention and recruitment* Practical ways to raise the profile of teaching within communities* The role of government, media, and leadership in restoring esteem* Inspiring stories of teachers who remind us why the profession matters This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show

School leaders are pulled in every direction — staff, pupils, parents, governors, inspectors. The pressure to say “yes” to everything can feel overwhelming, but the cost is often burnout and blurred priorities. In this episode, we explore the art of saying no: how leaders can set boundaries with confidence, protect their time, and focus on what truly matters for their school community.* Why saying “yes” to everything undermines leadership* The hidden power of a well-placed “no”* Practical strategies for setting boundaries without guilt* How protecting your time protects your school* Stories of leaders who found freedom in saying less, not more This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribeSupport the show