I’m a serving Headteacher with over a decade of senior leadership experience across Multi-Academy Trusts, having worked in a number of leadership positions and now as a Headteacher. I currently lead a primary school in Birmingham in a community with high levels of SEND and socio-economic challenge — a context that constantly reminds me why values-led, inclusive education matters so much.

The education landscape is messy right now. Between Ofsted reform, attendance pressures, SEND demands, accountability shifts and the ongoing strain on school leaders, it can feel relentless. I’ve led through the new Ofsted framework myself, and I understand first-hand the pressure, the uncertainty and the emotional toll that can come with it. I also know that it is possible to lead with clarity, integrity and purpose through that complexity.

My doctoral research focused on how senior leaders within Multi-Academy Trusts create the conditions for school improvement in constrained and fast-moving environments. Through interviews with MAT leaders and extensive analysis, I developed the concept of “Crossing the School Improvement Bridge” — a way of understanding how leaders navigate disruption, relational dynamics and trust-wide agendas while still keeping children at the centre.

But for me, this work isn’t just academic. It’s lived experience.

I am passionate about helping other leaders make sense of the current education space. I want to continue sharing research-informed insights, practical strategies and honest reflections to support leaders who are trying to do the right thing in difficult circumstances. A significant part of my work is supporting new and aspiring leaders to build confidence, moral purpose and the resilience needed to lead effectively.

Education is under pressure — but I believe deeply in its power to transform lives and communities. I want to be part of shaping a leadership culture that is principled, brave and grounded in what truly matters for children.

Dr Siobhan Sanders