The Human Side of School Leadership : How Courage, Connection and Care Transform Culture

We often talk about leadership as strategy, structure, and outcomes — but what if the real work begins with how we treat each other? This guide offers a deeply human exploration of what it means to lead schools where people truly matter. Drawing on years of coaching and wellbeing supervision with headteachers, CEOs, and leadership teams, Shaheen Myers provides a powerful reimagining of leadership that places care, connection and courage at its core. From Teach Me How to Treat You and Carefrontations to Rethinking Performance Management, each chapter empowers leaders to cultivate a sense of belonging and resilience in their teams. Case studies, reflection exercises and insights from a range of leaders, including Mary Myatt (an education adviser, writer and speaker) and Sufian Sadiq (Director of Teaching School and Co-president Elect for Chartered College of Teaching), invite the reader to pause, reflect, and realign their values, asking: What happens when we lead with authenticity, not armour? How do we build cultures where people feel seen, valued, and safe? How can leaders sustain themselves while supporting everyone else? Grounded in evidence, lived experience and empathy, this book will leave the reader feeling supported, valued and equipped to grow both personally and professionally. It is an essential resource for all senior leaders who are committed to creating thriving and supportive school communities.