Leadership at all levels

The visits to Scotland over the last 18 months of a number of international thought-leaders have reinforced the importance of collegiate approaches to teaching which acknowledge the role of every teacher as a leader for learning. We have seen a growing acceptance that every teacher has a responsibility for learning within their classroom and within their school, and that 'educational change depends on what teachers do and think. It’s as simple and as complex as that.' (Michael Fullan, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education) 

Curriculum for Excellence will require teachers to be leaders of change, and to share their knowledge, experience and insights with colleagues within their schools and authorities. Teacher leaders may have some or all of the following characteristics:

• They will model shared core beliefs and values, including mutual respect, professionalism, and inclusion.
• They will display a passion for making a difference in the lives of every learner.
• They will enable colleagues and pupils to embrace new challenges and to maximise their potential.
• They will help the creation of  a productive, vibrant and supportive ethos based on high expectations. 

At last year’s Scottish Learning Festival, Terry Dozier delivered a powerful and thought-provoking keynote on the theme of teacher leaders.