# data[].attributes.headline
Coherence is shared understanding, not just structure or strategy.

# data[].attributes.subject
Coherence is shared understanding, not just structure or strategy.

# data[].attributes.body
What resonates most in me as a leader:

Coherence is when everyone involved deeply understands the purpose and direction of their work. As a school with many well-established processes and structures in place, many programs and activities are planned based on a given model. As such, team members follow but might not share a common vision and work together effectively toward it. A lack of a shared understanding leads to confusion and inefficiency. We should be embracing a collective mindset and goal.

How I can apply this learning:

1. To have regular communication and open dialogue where my team can have a safe space to clarify shared goals (of improving student outcomes), provide feedback and concerns and align actions.

2. Have collaborative decision-making that involves the team when we have any initiatives. This can encourage ownership and shared commitment.

3. Consistent messaging with the team to reinforce the vision and direction that the school is heading.

4. Align practices to the direction/goal the school is envisioning towards. Ensuring that the different aspects such as PD of the team, T&L practices and the way the team works all reflect the shared understanding.

# data[].attributes.body
One thing that resonates with me is the need to create a collaborative culture with a common goal. As a new KP overseeing the department, I'm getting to know my team, learning their strengths and how we can work together effectively. The framework's focus on shared responsibility and alignment strikes a chord with me.

I see the benefits of drawing on the knowledge of those who've been in the department for a long time. Their perspectives and knowledge will play a key role in shaping decisions and maintaining stability during changes. By adopting this approach, I also hope to build the department’s capacity and promote greater ownership amongst the team.

To put this learning into action, I would focus on strengthening collaborative professionalism within my team by fostering open dialogue and communicating policy intent, aligning efforts around shared goals and ensuring that professional learning is meaningful and relevant. In managing the upcoming GE revamp, I also recognize the need to exercise sensitivity, as change can bring uncertainty. By making sure everyone's included in our talks and keeping things clear, I hope to build trust so that we can navigate these transitions smoothly while staying focused on our shared goals.

Farah

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
7 Point Decision Making Continuum by Dr.W. Patrick Dolan

# data[].attributes.headline
Thoughts on Coherent Leadership- Deciding How to Decide 

# data[].attributes.subject
Thoughts on Coherent Leadership- Deciding How to Decide 

# data[].attributes.body
One thing that resonates with me as a leader

Being explicit about the decision-making process and selecting the right decision making process for the need. This will ensure transparency and build trust within the team.

The 7-point Decision Making Continuum provides a flexible framework that can be adapted based on the situation. This model will help in the decision making process, where different scenarios may require different levels of collaboration and authority.

Put learning into action

Promoting collaborative decision-making by creating an environment where all team members feel valued and empowered to contribute. This can be done by actively seek input from a variety of stakeholders. Diverse perspectives can lead to more innovative and effective solutions.

After decisions are made, regularly review their outcomes and the process used to reach them. This helps identify what worked well and what could be improved for future decisions. By also recognizing and celebrating successful collaborative decisions, the team will be encouraged to continue participation in this process.

Jasmine

# data[].attributes.body
What resonates with me

Coherent leadership is about creating a shared vision and common goals for teaching and learning, ensuring that everyone understands the "why" behind the "what." As a leader to me, it is essential to first establish clarity on the Ministry of Education’s (MOE) direction, followed by the school’s and department’s goals, before cascading them to teachers. This alignment ensures that educators see the connection between their work and the broader educational vision. Beyond alignment, meaningful connections must be made between the larger vision and daily classroom teaching, so that teachers understand how their efforts directly contribute to student outcomes.

Application

For a start, the use of data-driven strategies for classroom teaching is crucial. These strategies provide clear, measurable ways to directly impact student learning, offering teachers tangible insights into their effectiveness. While building relationships takes time, leveraging data can create immediate improvements in teaching and learning.

However, creating buy-in from teachers is crucial for this vision to take root. As a new Head of Department (HOD), I recognize that trust needs to be built before true alignment can happen. My teachers and I are still in the process of understanding each other’s working styles, and I need to be intentional in fostering relationships and supporting their professional growth. When teachers feel valued, supported, and developed, they are more likely to embrace the department’s direction and contribute meaningfully.

Ultimately, I strongly feel that our focus in schools is on the impact of teaching and leadership on students’ learning and holistic growth. Coherent leadership, therefore, is not just about communication but also about fostering trust, developing teachers, and creating a shared sense of purpose that translates into positive outcomes for students.

Suguan

# data[].attributes.body
Share one thing that stands out or resonates with you as a leader:

I resonate with the idea that progress and growth occur when teachers reflect, share lessons, strategies, and student work in collaborative teams.

As educators, our ability to reflect on our teaching methods is vital for improvement. By examining what worked and what didn’t, we can adapt and refine our approaches, making our teaching more effective. Reflection allows us to remain adaptable to the ever-changing needs of our students. A culture of collaboration is invaluable, allowing us to learn from one another’s experiences. We all have different strengths and by working together, we can identify the most effective strategies to support student learning. Through a collaborative approach, we can create an environment where both teachers and students can thrive.

Briefly share how you might apply this learning:

Strive to make reflection a regular habit in my teaching practice. I recognise its importance but time constraints often make it challenging.

Create a safe and supportive environment where feedback is given constructively, allowing teachers to engage in open discussions about their teaching practices.

Collaborate with colleagues to plan lessons and discuss resources, ensuring everyone’s contributions are valued in creating a shared vision for student success.

Reflect together on what worked well and explore how to adapt our approaches for future lessons. Through analysis of student work, identify areas for growth and success, and discuss how to meet the diverse needs of our students.

Empower colleagues to share and implement new strategies and approaches in their own classrooms, ensuring that the benefits of PD extend beyond a single teacher. This will foster a culture of collaboration and contribute to the growth and success of our school.

# data[].attributes.body
1. Focusing Direction

As the HOD PE/CCA, my main goal is to enhance students’ physical activity, knowing its direct impact on their holistic education.

A shared purpose among my team is essential. We must align our efforts toward a small number of clear, impactful goals that elevate student engagement in physical activity.

I recognize the importance of change leadership. Leading by example and fostering clarity in our department’s vision and strategies. I make it a point to share my best practices with the PE team to encourage them to share and grow as a team. I do walkabouts often during CCA to learn more about our 20 CCA and the issues that they face.

2. Cultivating Collaborative Cultures

Collaboration is the key to professional growth. Building a strong, trusting culture within my team will enhance collective capacity and improve teaching practices.

Creating structured opportunities for peer collaboration (e.g. Sharing My Best Practice Moments), professional learning teams, and reflective discussions will enable PE teachers to share best practices and learn from one another.

Encouraging open dialogue and psychological safety ensures that all voices are valued, leading to more effective and innovative teaching approaches. I share with my team the new strategies that I have tried and failed to show them that we are all learning, all the time.

3. Deepening Learning

Professional development must go beyond individual efforts—teachers must engage in collaborative learning experiences that deepen their pedagogical knowledge.

A focus on student learning outcomes through targeted, high-impact teaching strategies ensures that physical education is both meaningful and effective.

Utilizing data-driven insights to refine our approaches will help us continuously improve student engagement and performance in physical activities.

4. Securing Accountability

Holding ourselves accountable for student learning and well-being is essential. Accountability should not be about blame but about continuous improvement.

Implementing transparent benchmarking processes will allow us to measure progress, celebrate achievements, and address areas needing development.

Ensuring that external accountability measures, such as curriculum standards and student feedback, align with our internal goals will create a more cohesive and effective PE program. From this perspective, I always encourage PE teachers to look inwards and outwards, to look online and other schools for best practices and ideas to achieve the PE learning outcomes in ways that are engaging to students.

5. Key Leadership Actions Moving Forward

Develop a structured professional learning community where PE teachers collaborate, reflect, and refine their teaching strategies.

Foster a culture of continuous learning by integrating peer observations, coaching, and feedback loops.

Align department goals with school-wide initiatives, ensuring coherence in our approach to student development.

Advocate for the value of physical education by engaging stakeholders such as students, teachers, parents, and school leadership. To build a shared understanding of its importance.

By applying Coherence Leadership principles, I aim to build a high-performing, collaborative, and reflective PE department that significantly contributes to the overall excellence of our students' holistic education.

Noh

# data[].attributes.body
-Share one thing that stood out or resonates with you as a leader?

Openness:

Openness holds a powerful place in leadership. What stands out to me is how openness can act as a bridge—it connects, aligns, and strengthens relationships within a team. By sharing information transparently and fostering an environment where communication flows freely, leaders create a space for trust to flourish. This is especially vital in times of uncertainty or when teachers feel vulnerable. A leader's willingness to be open and authentic can help their team feel seen, heard, and supported.

In our school, openness from the school leaders to the MM and from MM to the teachers, will help to foster an environment that is build on trust and is safe.

-Share briefly how might you apply this learning?

To integrate openness in:

• Department / Staff Meetings: Sharing clear insights into goals, policies, or challenges while inviting open discussions and input from teachers and staff.

• Performance management : Being transparent and open about evaluation processes and professional growth opportunities to build trust and encourage collaboration with job holders.

• Professional development & Mentoring Teachers: Offering honest and constructive feedback in a way that encourages dialogue and growth, rather than imposing authority.

By practicing openness in these scenarios, I can create an atmosphere where communication thrives, and build a team of teachers who feel seen, heard, and supported in my department.

Jocelyn

# data[].attributes.headline
Thoughts on Coherent Leadership - Elaine

# data[].attributes.subject
Thoughts on Coherent Leadership - Elaine

# data[].attributes.body
One thing that stood out to me as SSD is the importance of "Clarity of Purpose" in the Coherence Framework. Michael Fullan emphasizes that clarity of purpose is essential for creating a shared sense of direction and focus among educators. This resonates with me because, as a school staff developer, I've seen how a lack of clarity can lead to confusion and fragmentation among teachers and among middle managers. By establishing a clear and compelling purpose, we can create a sense of unity and direction that guides our professional development, mentoring, and Curriculum Design Effort.

Application of Learning

I realised I have inadvertently applied the "Clarity of Purpose" as I shared about the PD Plan this year- Shifting Gears. I have:

- Worked with our school leadership team and middle managers to reiterate and clarify our purpose and goals for teaching and learning

- Developed a clear and compelling narrative about our purpose and goals, Shifting Gears and communicated this narrative to all during EXCO and CT

- Used our clarified purpose and goals to inform our professional development, mentoring, and Curriculum design, PLT efforts, ensuring that all initiatives are aligned and focused on achieving our shared objectives.

- worked with the various department heads to design professional development programs that are aligned with our school's VMV (Competent Staff who pushed frontiers in education) and MOE policies(Ed Tech Master Plan, AI)

- Created SHPS professional development framework that outlines clear expectations and pathways for teacher growth.

These efforts have helped to create a more coherent and collaborative learning culture that supports the growth and development of all our staff.

# data[].attributes.body
Balancing Control and Participation in Decision-Making

(1) One key insight for me is the need to balance control and participation in decision-making—carefully calibrating the level of involvement from the team. A truly coherent system requires intentional effort to foster collective purpose and shared ownership. As Fullan and Quinn emphasize, "the only way we will get coherence is that we regularly talk through what we, collectively, are trying to do." This means investing time in structured conversations, coaching dialogues, and consistent, clear communication within the department.

In the Leadership Growth Model (LGM), Key Personnel (KPs) serve as educational leaders, network leaders, culture builders, and change leaders. As a Culture Builder, I must shape a department culture that aligns with a shared learning vision. This requires working alongside teacher leaders and department members to:

Influence through modeling collaborative practices,

Inspire by fostering ownership of innovation and experimentation, and

Invest in individuals’ strengths, needs, and professional growth to ultimately enhance student learning outcomes.

To cultivate a collaborative culture, I must ask: How do I present myself to my teachers? (Am I caring, humble, empowering, and motivating? Do I highlight and celebrate good work?) What does success look like? (A department aligned in purpose, committed to professional learning, and leading to improved student outcomes.)

This aligns with the KRA Competency Clusters, particularly in Organizational Excellence, Culture Building, and People Development, as well as Effective Collaboration, Teamwork, and Team-building, which are key competencies in leadership.

Application of Learning

(2) To strengthen coherence and deepen learning, I need to be intentional about decision-making—knowing when to delegate, consult, or take decisive action. Using the Coherence Framework as a guide:

Collaborative Cultures: Prioritize structured dialogue and inclusive decision-making to build trust and collective ownership.

Deepening Learning: Support teacher capacity-building through professional learning and innovation.

While collaboration enhances buy-in and diverse perspectives, decisive leadership is sometimes necessary. By assessing urgency, stakeholder involvement, and available expertise, I can ensure decisions—whether collaborative or authoritative—serve the overarching goal of deep learning and sustained improvement.

# data[].attributes.body
One key insight that stood out to me is the importance of Clarity of Purpose in the Coherence Framework. A clear purpose provides a shared sense of direction, aligning efforts across different levels of leadership.

As a supervisor, I recognise that my supervisees need clarity on expectations, professional growth pathways, and how their roles contribute to the larger school vision. Without a well-defined purpose, it is easy for efforts to become disjointed. Similarly, as an Assistant Year Head, I see how clarity in student well-being initiatives helps teachers provide consistent support to students who may be struggling academically, socially, or emotionally.

Application of Learning:

I have been applying this principle of Clarity of Purpose by:

Supervision & Professional Development:

Working with my supervisees to establish clear expectations for their roles and growth, ensuring alignment with our school’s vision and professional learning goals.

Providing structured feedback and mentorship that connects their individual work to broader school initiatives.

Year Head Role – Supporting Teachers & Student Well-being:

Ensuring that teachers have a clear understanding of intervention processes for students needing additional support.

Communicating a coherent and shared approach to student well-being and challenging students, so that teachers feel equipped and supported in their efforts.

Conducting regular check-ins with both teachers and students to assess progress, provide guidance, and ensure alignment with well-being initiatives.

Organising best practice sharing sessions during YH Time where teachers can discuss strategies for supporting challenging students, fostering a collective approach to student well-being.

Balancing Control and Participation in Decision-Making

Another key learning point is the need to balance control and participation in decision-making. A coherent system requires fostering collective ownership while also providing decisive leadership when necessary.

As an Assistant Year Head, I see how this applies to working with teachers. In supporting student well-being, collaborative cultures are crucial. Teachers should feel that they are part of a team effort rather than working in isolation. At the same time, some decisions, particularly regarding interventions for high-needs students, require clear direction and timely action.

Practical Steps to Strengthen Collaboration and Coherence

For My Supervisees:

Foster a culture of open dialogue where they feel comfortable sharing challenges and proposing solutions.

Align their work with school-wide initiatives, ensuring they see the bigger picture.

For Teachers Supporting Student Well-being & Challenging Students:

Facilitate structured discussions either 1-to-1 with both FTs or during YH Time where teachers reflect on student cases and collaboratively develop strategies.

Provide clarity on the intervention framework so teachers feel confident in identifying and responding to student needs.

Ensure that student support plans are not just reactive but proactively designed to equip students with strategies for success.

Conduct regular check-ins with teachers to provide support, share updates on student progress, and reinforce intervention strategies.

By applying these leadership insights across both staff supervision and student well-being efforts, I can create a more aligned and purposeful approach that enhances both teacher development and student outcomes.

Jasjit

# data[].attributes.headline
Coherence is shared understanding, not just structure or strategy.

# data[].attributes.subject
Coherence is shared understanding, not just structure or strategy.

# data[].attributes.body
What resonates most in me as a leader:

Coherence is when everyone involved deeply understands the purpose and direction of their work. As a school with many well-established processes and structures in place, many programs and activities are planned based on a given model. As such, team members follow but might not share a common vision and work together effectively toward it. A lack of a shared understanding leads to confusion and inefficiency. We should be embracing a collective mindset and goal.

How I can apply this learning:

1. To have regular communication and open dialogue where my team can have a safe space to clarify shared goals (of improving student outcomes), provide feedback and concerns and align actions.

2. Have collaborative decision-making that involves the team when we have any initiatives. This can encourage ownership and shared commitment.

3. Consistent messaging with the team to reinforce the vision and direction that the school is heading.

4. Align practices to the direction/goal the school is envisioning towards. Ensuring that the different aspects such as PD of the team, T&L practices and the way the team works all reflect the shared understanding.

# data[].attributes.headline
Collaborate, cohesion across system, cohesion within & across teams

# data[].attributes.subject
Collaborate, cohesion across system, cohesion within & across teams

# data[].attributes.body
What resonates with me especially as someone in a new environment and new role are the 8 attitudes of effective relationship builders and how recognising fundamental tensions, barriers to building and maintaining trust and understanding adult learning can help a new leader navigate and build trust and coherent leadership at the workplace.

These 8 attitudes of effective relationship builders, seemingly straightforward yet not so. And, very applicable to my role as a Year Head.

(1)     Be wholly trustworthy, not wholly trusting

(2)     Always consult before deciding

(3)     Accept the other person

(4)     Separate relationship issues from process and content issues

(5)     Choose rather than react in kind

(6)     Describe rather than characterize

(7)     Assume the other person's good will

(8)     Be unconditionally constructive

In my role, managing relationships with and between our different stakeholders is challenging. I draw parallels between the idea of cohesion across systems and cohesion within and across teams in the work I do. In relationship building, there is a fundamental tension in managing conflict between getting our needs met and preserving our relationships with others. Do you tend to be competitive? Accommodate? Or compromise? It is interesting that though at some points we tend to be either of these, we also try very hard to find a win-win balance that both meets our needs and preserves the relationship – to collaborate. Is it easier for adults or children to collaborate?

While we strive to collaborate, it is also important to recognise the barriers to building and maintaining trust in the context of our current volatile workforce and changes. Understanding andragogy or facilitating adult learning is vital for a leader seeking to develop a team that is aligned and capable of achieving the organisation’s goals. Adults learn best when they see relevance: Adults are motivated to learn when they can see the practical application of what they are learning to their work or personal goals. Adults value respect and autonomy: When consulted, they feel they also have a say, develops a sense of ownership and that helps create the coherence in working towards a common goal.

# data[].attributes.headline
Coherence: First things first - The Right Drivers 

# data[].attributes.subject
Coherence: First things first - The Right Drivers 

# data[].attributes.body
Getting the drivers right is foundational and will make or break all other efforts, despite the best of intentions.

While a 'right driver' is defined as one that ends up achieving better measurable results for students, a 'wrong driver' is a deliberate policy force that has little chance of achieving the desired result.

When I first laid eyes on the above table, I took a second look. While we are definitely invested in the right drivers, it occurred to me that perhaps there had been an undue emphasis on the wrong drivers at some point along the way.

Application of learning

While it started off as a nagging feeling of discomfort, it has since progressed to a definite clarity of why and how we have to redirect and focus on the right drivers.

For a start, having more sessions to meet with level teachers during PLT for more frequent and in-depth discussions about curriculum, pedagogy and content will pay off in strengthening capacity building and fostering collaborative effort in the long run.

Giving our younger colleagues more opportunities to listen in as their more experienced colleagues share teaching strategies and encouraging them to ask questions to deepen their learning has a direct impact on the quality of teaching and learning.

This leaves us to ensure that time spent on such professional discourse is well-spent and of quality. In order for this to happen, clarity and effectiveness on the part of the curriculum leaders are paramount. Keeping abreast of curriculum updates; ensuring clear communication; promoting buy-in and accountability, effecitve monitoring as well as empowering teachers to a higher degree of accountability will be key areas that we will have to look into.

Bee Li

# data[].attributes.body
As I looked through all the frameworks, the picture of a gear system came to my mind. As illustrated in the picture, the different gears are like the different departments in the school. Be it small or big, each has an important role for the whole system to work well. If one gear breaks down, even if it is the smallest gear or the weakest and least important department in the school, the whole system will malfunction. As illustrated in the above gear system, it is interesting to note that the driver is the smallest gear while the last and biggest gear is driven by the smallest gear. Indeed, every staff member counts. Also, the staff member/department who is “smallest” might turn out to be the driving force that propels the whole system forward.

Above all else, the constant lubrication of the gear system is like the quality relationships among the staff members. These quality relationships are critical in reducing wear and tear, and sustaining the efficiency of the whole school system, so that all gears can work hand-in-hand with each other and move forward in the same direction.

Application

I would like to continue to work on fostering strong quality relationships among colleagues and recognize the fact that each member plays an important role in the school and is valued.

Melissa :)

# data[].attributes.body
One thing that stood out or resonates with me: The need to align actions, communication and decisions with a clear and shared vision, ensuring consistency across the department/school. We build trust by being transparent and supportive, while ensuring that everyone understands their role in achieving common goals.

Application of Learning

Clear & Shared Vision: As a LH, it is important for me to work closely with my HOD to communicate clearly and establish a shared vision for the department. Regularly sharing MOE policies, school directions and department expectations ensures everyone understands the rationale behind actions and decisions. Including teachers in the goal-setting process will allow them to contribute and feel ownership which will increase engagement and ensuring the vision resonates with everyone.

Communication: As a RO, I recognise that communication with my JHs cannot be one-way. It is important for me to actively listen and engage in meaningful conversations with my JHs. As a LH, open communication will allow the teachers to feel safe to share their ideas, concerns, and feedback during PLTs/meetings. Listening actively to their input shows that we value their contributions, and this will help to strengthen the team's overall connection.

Reflection & Adjustment: Reflecting and adjusting is key to effective leadership. After being in the department for many years, we (as a KP or as a teacher) may have overlook certain things (blind spots), so it's important to evaluate what’s working and what needs improvement. Being open to feedback from teachers helps us better meet their needs while staying focused on the vision.

# data[].attributes.body
One thing that stood out or resonated with me is the idea of system change being all about cultural change.   The optimal environment combines a strong climate for change with an explicitness of strategy in order to challenge and engage high performance.

In this fast-changing environment in school, amidst the backdrop of MOE’s changing directions, it is inevitable that we need to create a strong climate of change where our staff feel that they are able to make sense of the change, own the change and suggest strategies.

Application

Open conversations with colleagues in the level about changes and the rationale behind the change relevant to the levels during YH time.

Most of the time, middle managers come up with solutions and strategies.  We should start having conversations to illicit ideas/ solutions from teachers. From there, we can elicit strategies to build greater ownership. Perhaps some of the CTs/ YH meetings can be used for this.

# data[].attributes.body
Michael Fullan's work on coherence making and deep learning emphasises the importance of aligning vision, collaboration, and pedagogy to create meaningful and sustainable change in education. One key insight is the concept of "shared depth of understanding"—ensuring that all stakeholders deeply grasp the purpose and strategies behind their work. This coherence fosters a culture of trust, innovation, and collective responsibility.

As a leader, one standout idea is the role of "lead learners"—leaders who model continuous learning and collaboration. This approach shifts the focus from top-down directives to empowering teams through shared learning experiences.

To apply this, i would need to embrace the role of a lead learner by actively participating in PD alongside my team. For instance, during department meetings or review meetings, I can encourage collaborative brainstorming sessions among my department people where everyone contributes ideas, fostering a sense of ownership and shared purpose. This not only enhances team cohesion but also ensures that the vision is collectively understood and implemented effectively.

Huizhi

# data[].attributes.body
One thing that resonates with me as a leader:

Focusing Direction

I understand that this is the first essential component of building coherence. It involves establishing a clear and compelling sense of purpose and direction for the organization. It’s about understanding the "why" behind the organization’s work, setting impactful goals and identifying the key objectives that will drive meaningful change, and establishing a clear strategy for achieving those goals.

A clear link between decisions on the allocation of resources and the priority goals also drives coherence. Without a meaningful and purposeful direction, all that we do are just operational and going through the motions.

However, as I ponder on this, I do wonder what I can do, as a leader, to impact my team and cultivate a collaborative culture. On the ground, we are also faced with the challenges of too much to do, yet too little time to discuss and brainstorm, staff also seem to feel overloaded with too many priorities.

Briefly share how you might apply this learning:

I would like to work on creating a safe and supportive environment for my team, where feedback can taken and given constructively, to build each other up.

To build trust, leaders must avoid:

1) making decisions alone, which makes employees feel ignored

2) communicating poorly, which causes confusion

3) breaking promises, which destroys credibility.

Instead, leaders should communicate openly, involve employees in decisions, and keep their word. This builds trust, allowing teams to work better together.

Grace

# data[].attributes.headline
Coherence Leadership: Consistency of Purpose, Policy and Practice

# data[].attributes.subject
Coherence Leadership: Consistency of Purpose, Policy and Practice

# data[].attributes.body
In the ever-evolving landscape of education, change is inevitable. As a KP, navigating change effectively requires more than just well-defined structures and strategic plans. While these elements are essential, true transformation emerges when there is consistency of purpose, policy, and practice. Ensuring that all stakeholders—teachers, students, parents, and support staff—are aligned with a common vision is crucial for sustainable change.

Change management in a school setting is can be done through cultivating a shared understanding and commitment to action. It requires creating an environment where individuals see the relevance of the change and recognize their role in making it successful.

One of the key responsibilities of a middle manager is to build shared meaning among all stakeholders. This involves clear communication, inclusive decision-making, and ongoing professional development. When staff members deeply understand the reasons for change and see how it aligns with the broader educational goals, they become more engaged and proactive in driving improvements.

Capacity-building is another crucial aspect. Educators and staff must be equipped with the necessary skills, resources, training and support systems to adapt to change effectively. Providing platforms to foster collaboration helps develop a resilient school culture that embraces progress.

Commitment to action is the final pillar of successful change management. It is not enough for individuals to understand and agree with a new direction—they must also be willing and prepared to take the necessary steps to implement it.

As a KP,  I see my role in maintaining momentum by setting clear expectations, celebrating small wins, and continuously reinforcing the value of the change.

Sonia

# data[].attributes.body
One thing that really stood out to me as is Fullan’s point about leading with a shared purpose to drive meaningful change. He talks about how coherence is not just about following policies or structures, but about everyone working together with a clear sense of purpose. That struck a chord because in SEN, it is not just about having the right support systems, but it is also about making sure the whole school community understands and plays a part in inclusion. This takes time as it is also part of culture building.

A key takeaway for me is the idea of collaborative professionalism—where teachers, support staff (e.g. SENO, School Counsellors, TSNs, Teacher Counsellors), and school leaders do not work in silos but instead come together to support students in an integrated and coherent manner. Right now, SEN support sometimes feels like it is mainly the job of the learning support team or the educational support department. However, if we want real, lasting change as a school, inclusion has to be something that all teachers see as part of their role too.

Applying This in School

To put this into action, it is important find opportunities to create structured conversations between mainstream teachers and the SEN team. One way is to leverage PD sessions where we share practical strategies and real case studies on how to support students with SEN in everyday classroom situations. The idea is to move away from “SEN = learning support team’s problem” and towards a whole-school approach where every teacher feels confident and equipped to support different learning needs.

At the end of the day, Fullan’s ideas remind me that change isn’t just about policies or frameworks—it’s about getting people on the same page and working together. That’s something I’ll keep in mind as I strive to lead my team and support our students better.

-Daphne

# data[].attributes.body
What resonates with me are some of the key strategies that I can adopt as a HOD ICT to achieve systemic change and improvement in educational technology.

1. Shared Vision and Goals

Developing a common purpose and aligning efforts towards shared objectives is crucial. This is one area I need to work closely with SLs to develop our school's shared vision in EdTech Plan, and work closely with other middle managers to ensure that all staff understand and are committed to the our shared EdTech vision and goals.

2. Building Trust and Relationships

Trust is the foundation of collaboration. As a middle manager, I should foster open communication and mutual respect. This involves being transparent, listening actively, and addressing concerns promptly.

3. Continuous Improvement

Promoting a culture of ongoing learning and improvement is essential. Encourage feedback and use it constructively to make necessary adjustments to support teachers. We will also need to see how and what we can regularly assess on the impact of technology and making improvements based on data and feedback.

Additionally, create time for professional development to enable teachers to engage in professional discourse, explore teaching tools, and exchange lesson ideas, not only among ourselves but also with others in the teaching fraternity or knowledgeable others. This collaborative approach will enhance our tech-mediated teaching practices.

# data[].attributes.body
After reflecting on the readings on coherence leadership, I agree that coherence is not just about structure or strategy but a shared understanding of our work’s purpose. Sustainable change happens when leaders foster collective ownership rather than impose directives. This stood out to me as it reinforces the shift from isolated efforts to shared responsibility. Inevitably, tension will arise and we often find ourselves managing conflict between getting our needs met and preserving our relationships with others. As a KP, we may resolve issues differently from our teachers but the ideal approach is collaboration where both needs and relationships are balanced.

Application in the Math Department:

I can tap on the strategies mentioned under “Ladder of Inference” to communicate more effectively and avoid misunderstandings. During department meetings, make reasoning visible by asking teachers to explain their thought process when proposing ideas to build understanding and trust. Also, encourage healthy debate by normalizing disagreements as part of the improvement process and to find a middle ground instead of choosing between strict directives and total flexibility and aim for compromise with shared ownership. Furthermore, to lead by example by showing the willingness to adjust based on feedback. Hopefully by applying these principles, I can foster a more collaborative and solution-focused Math department while maintaining strong relationships with my teams.

~Jeline~

# data[].attributes.body
Fragmented Leadership leads to a situation in which leadership responsibilities, authority, or decision-making are distributed across multiple individuals, groups, or organizational units in a way that creates disunity.

In Michael Fullen’s framework, of Coherence Leadership, the concept of “Securing Accountability” resonated with me.

Two statements caught my attention. They are:

1. "Educators take responsibility for continuously improving results." Educators want to make improvement because in that culture of change, they exercise collective responsibility and pursue change as they build own and growth capacity for growth.

2. "Underperformance is an opportunity for growth, no blame." Psychological safety within the fraternity allows educators to believe that they will not be harshly judged for making mistakes or voicing concerns about district policies. Psychologically safe environments allow for

respectful discourse that includes all viewpoints. Hence, no blame culture.

I am familiar with the Growth Mindset. However, recently, I came across the Reset Mindset, proposed by Peny Zenker. In short, “The purposeful act of resetting allows you to shift your state, open your mind, reassess your priorities, and redirect your focus toward the highest point of contribution,” she says. “Every moment holds the potential for greatness when you choose to reset, align with your most important priorities.”

Application

*Continue to build a culture of trust and transparency amongst level teachers by recognizing and celebrating staff contributions.

*Foster open communication and transparency in decision-making by empowering staff.

-Andrew

# data[].attributes.body
The idea of leadership in the Learning Age—guiding, exploring, and improving—resonates with me. After more than 20 years in leadership, I am still learning, trying new things, and making sense of them. More than ever, I see the importance of listening, asking questions, and working with my team and other departments to create meaningful learning experiences.

As the leader of the Aesthetics department, I believe leadership is a journey of learning and growth. My role is not just to guide but to learn alongside my team and students. Creativity grows when we explore ideas together, reflect on our experiences, and make connections.

By listening, asking questions, and considering different views, I can support my team in trying new things while staying focused on student learning. I also want to create an environment where both teachers and students feel safe to take risks, experiment, and improve.

Using tools and protocols help provide structure and focus while still allowing creativity and flexibility.

Together, we can overcome challenges, improve our programmes and keep growing. As a leader, I want to highlight the value of our work and ensure it has a lasting impact on our school community.

Elizabeth

# data[].attributes.body
Reflection on Collaborative Professionalism

Co-learning in my role as SH/Student Well-Being is important to me as learning is a continuous and shared process. Leadership is not about knowing everything—it is about creating a space where everyone shares knowledge and supports each other. By engaging in co-learning with my colleagues, we collectively develop strategies that address student well-being more effectively.

Team-Oriented Leadership in student well-being is deeply rooted in teamwork. I strive to build a supportive environment where every member of the team feels valued and motivated to contribute. Encouraging collaboration through regular meetings, reflective discussions, and shared decision-making processes strengthens our collective capacity to enhance student well-being. By having a sense of trust and accountability, this will ensure that our team functions cohesively towards a common goal.

Inward/Outward is important to me as a leader because it is about finding a balance between looking inward at myself and engaging with others. On the inward side, I need to regularly reflect on my actions, why I do what I do, and how it affects my team. Being aware of myself helps me understand how my choices impact the team and our environment. That is why I believe in asking for feedback and reflecting on my leadership style. By checking in with myself, I can grow, learn from my mistakes, and become a better leader. This reflection helps me stay true to my values and focus on what the team needs.

Application:

Continue to have open conversation with my team and provide a safe environment for them to share freely.