Leaders as coaches

A recent report by McKinsey, “Capturing the Leadership premium” looks at the important role that coaching plays in the success of high-performing principals around the world.  The research largely reconfirms existing knowledge about the roles which effective school leaders play, and demonstrates that this knowledge applies across a range of systems in different contexts: o       Almost all principals say that setting vision and direction, supporting the development of staff, and ensuring effective management systems and processes are the biggest contributors to the success of their school. o       High-performing principals focus more on instructional leadership and developing teachers. They see their biggest challenges as improving teaching and curriculum, and they believe that their ability to coach others and support their development is the most important skill of a good school leader. o       All principals, and particularly high performers, are motivated mainly by their ability to make a difference, though early experiences of leadership and exposure to role models make a strong contribution, particularly for high performers.

o       High performers are more likely to report that they greatly enjoy teaching.

The government initiatives to increase the numbers of National and Local Leaders of Education supports this engagement of leaders in the role of coaching. CUREE is working with many leadership groups to enhance the capacity and capability to coach. Let us know if you want to hear more.