Introduction to Developing Leaders

 

What makes an effective leader?

It was interesting to discuss what makes a good leader. As a group we decided that the following qualities are important:

• Having charisma and being inspiring
• Being a good role model
• Having strong interpersonal skills
• Being dynamic and having the ability to empower others
• Good communication
• Being driven towards clear goals

 

Kolb Learning Style Inventory 

From participating in the Kolb Learning Style Inventory, I learned how different learning styles can impact on leadership styles. After some initial scepticism, I was surprised to find that the results were a fairly good representation of my leadership, and most importantly, areas for development. According to the inventory, my learning style is Balanced Converging. Having a balanced learning style means that you are comfortable with a variety of learning modes. People with a converging style are best at finding practical uses for theories. They have the ability to solve problems and make decisions. They are very practical and would rather deal with technical problems than social and interpersonal issues. This does speak some truth for me. I am very much a practical person. I enjoy creating new formats, systems and solutions to improve efficiency both in the classroom and for leadership tasks. In terms of being less inclined to deal with the social and interpersonal aspects of leadership, I am often guilty of just doing things myself rather than sharing them with my team. I need to trust and invest more in others. Completing the inventory has made me more aware of this and it will now become one of my next steps towards becoming a stronger leader.

 

Leadership Challenge

I have considered several ideas for the challenge and have decided on my action plan. When looking at my Reception cohort I have identified a gap in attainment for disadvantaged pupils in Personal, Social and Emotional Development. In order for these pupils to achieve the Good Level of Development at the end of Early Years Foundation Stage, they will need to make significant progress in this area. Not only is this important for raising attainment for the EYFS but also to ensure that these pupils have the right social and emotional skills to become part of the wider school community.