Today was a special day. On Thursday I am presenting (along with many other educators) at ISCO – the International Schools Conference in Oman. To take the words directly from Richard Davies, Cheltenham School, the conference is built on sharing evidence-based best practice so that, collaboratively, our collective learning can have a transformative impact on teaching. As part of this we are celebrating educators whose creativity, compassion, and commitment inspire us all through #PayItForward campaign which allows teachers to shout out to a colleague who inspires them. Today I was, unexpectedly, the recipient of one of these shout-outs.
Michelle Simpson: Her leadership has truly inspired me. Her vision and dedication have transformed the way I think about teaching and learning. She has encouraged me to be more innovative, reflective, and intentional in how I support both teachers and students. Her ability to create a culture of collaboration and professional growth has had a real impact on our school community. Thank you for constantly inspiring me to grow and lead with purpose!
Reading this was humbling. Teaching is, at its heart, a collective endeavour. The real impact of our work happens when we learn with and from one another, when ideas are shared freely, when we take risks together, and when we keep students at the centre of every conversation. As I prepare to present at ISCO, I am reminded that teaching and leadership are acts of service, grounded in curiosity, generosity, and the shared pursuit of better learning for every student. I love what I do – and that’s working with teachers and students. I am lucky!
I’m grateful to work alongside colleagues who challenge me to keep growing, thinking differently, and leading with purpose. I have been lucky to have worked in schools where leadership has trusted and helped me to grow as a leader myself.
Perhaps most importantly, my experiences have reaffirmed the value of staying true to one’s True North, (Bill George), those core principles that guide how we lead, teach, and connect with others. In the fast-paced, sometimes challenging environments of schools, it can be easy to lose sight of that compass. Yet holding onto values – integrity, empathy, collaboration, and purpose – keeps us steady. They remind us that authentic leadership is not about popularity or position, but about consistency, courage, and staying anchored in what matters most.
I’m not sure who wrote those lovely words, but I am deeply grateful. Reading them was both heartening and grounding. It reminded me that leadership is never a solitary act – it is a shared journey built on trust, collaboration, and a deep belief in others’ potential. The most meaningful impact we have as educators often happens quietly, in the conversations, connections, and small moments that ripple outward.
