Leadership matters and a blast from the past

A quick search on Google on the topic of ‘leadership’ currently yields 3,030,000+ results.  New books on the subject are constantly being added and there seem to be a wealth of training courses on offer.  We are mindful in school that many qualities of good leadership are just good qualities per se; and our pupils seem to possess them by the bucket load. So, what makes a good leader? 

Well, the list is reasonably exhaustive, but each day we see our pupils modelling many of the following: 

Curiosity, creativity, courage, perseverance, compassion, responsibility, humility, empathy, vision, authenticity, accountability, agility, integrity, passion, charisma, commitment, and optimism. 

Yet these are just a small selection of the qualities an effective leader may possess.  Every leader will possess some of these qualities, and they will each have them to differing degrees, few, if any will, possess them all.  Most will need to draw on those qualities they have and work to develop those that they don’t.  Consequently, leaders come in many different guises and different styles work in different situations.  History tells us that there is no one way to lead.  However, Nelson Mandela’s view is a compelling one: 

‘A leader…is like a shepherd. He stays behind the flock, letting the nimblest go out ahead, whereupon the others follow, not realising that all along they are being directed from behind.’ 

I like this perspective on leadership, not least because it sits so well with us as a cathedral school and qualities of quiet thoughtful humility are often forgotten super powers. 

At Lichfield Cathedral School we aim to prepare young people to play a positive role in the world, to be the leaders of the future in whatever guise that may be. I urge all our pupils to seek out these occasions, particularly those which they may find challenging. 

Talking of leadership opportunities, this term we have chosen our new student Heads of School.  They are selected on the basis of a written application, interview and a vote of their peers and teachers. They are chosen in recognition of their achievements and their potential to have a positive impact on the school community.  The competition is fiercely fought and this year has been particularly tough.  You will find out the results on Speech Day when our splendid outgoing Heads of School pass the metaphorical ‘baton’ to their successors.  What is clear is that in the most uplifting and optimistic way, our youngsters want to be change makers. 

School days are full of a myriad of opportunities – many of these shape who our youngsters will become and what they will do. I encourage them heartily to grab all opportunities with both hands – to discover which personal qualities are their own personal super powers.  Throughout school, in every year group sit youngsters with amazing potential and emerging skills and talents and of course, future Heads of School, Heads of School Council, sports captains and other leaders.  It’s all so hugely exciting! 

Last week, I had the absolute pleasure of meeting one of our alumni – Revd Canon Andrew Clitherow.  He shared his memories from his days here as a very young boy and most thrillingly recognised himself as one of the ‘running boys’ in the photograph from our archive.  The photograph has been used by the School for postcards for the last few years and depicts the daily early morning, pre-breakfast fitness run around The Close – we ‘almost’ re-enacted the scene!  I hope you like the photos. 

Inservi Deo et laetare!