Being a Middle Leader is an amazing job. You get the best of both worlds. Elements of leadership whilst still being firmly placed in the classroom. However, it can be a tricky role too. Being ‘in the middle’ can mean potential pressures from above whilst also leading a team. 

Here are my top, practical tips for being an effective middle leader: 

Build a team culture

This can be one of the more complex areas of leadership to get right. In order to do this, you have to view people as individuals rather than a homogenous group. Get to know the people you are leading. Know how they work, what makes them tick, and what motivates them. 

Have both individual and team conversations and have them regularly.  The aim is to create a culture where people feel motivated to succeed. Make sure your team has the time they need to complete tasks and goals. This is far easier said than done and requires time, patience, and effort.

Have a clear vision 

What do you want your department/phase/subject to look like? Have your end goal in mind and work backward to get there with a timeframe in mind. Ensure your team is on board and you are creating a clear, cohesive vision. If your phase/department is already ticking along ensure you are reviewing/reflecting on your vision and goals regularly. If you have new goals make sure that everyone on the team has a voice. It is of the utmost importance that everyone feels ownership of a shared vision. 

Know your pupils 

This is absolutely key. Ultimately our pupils are why we do what we do. Get to know the young people you are working with. Ensure they are getting quality lessons and consistently learning. Model what you want to see from your team. 

Build open and honest dialogue 

Let's be honest, it is never easy to have a ‘difficult conversation’. It is, however, integral to having a high-performing and effective team. They are a key part of the middle leader’s role. If a member of the team isn’t performing effectively for whatever reason then it is your job as the leader to address this. You owe it to both the individual and the team as a whole.

Delegate, Delegate, Delegate

Teachers want things done right! Many of us are perfectionists. However, as a middle leader, you can’t do everything yourself. Trust your team. Take on tasks as a team. Divide the work. Make your environment equitable.

Be reflective 

Regular reflection allows us to remain connected to our values and goals and in turn supports future decision-making. In order to successfully develop your phase/department/subject, you need to give the relevant areas the time and consideration they deserve in order to evaluate the evidence, ideas and practice. It is also important to reflect on our own practice. No one gets it right all of the time. What is important, however, is that we use those experiences to shape future practice and decisions. 

On the 19th June, I will be delivering a session titled, ‘The Nuts and Bolds of Middle Leadership in Primary’ at the #LeadershipEssentials Conference.

The talk will be focussed on the essentials that all Middle Leaders should know in order to be an effective leader so that both your team and pupils can benefit. Tickets are available here.