Middle leadership roles in schools – those heading departments, year levels or pastoral teams – are complex and demanding. Leaders are expected to support their staff, manage change, and maintain morale, all while carrying their own teaching load.
Recognising this, the IEU has engaged Michael Elphick and Associates to deliver a two-day practical workshop designed to support middle leaders and principals.
Practical strategies
“This program isn’t about theory,” Elphick said. “It’s about empowering school leaders with practical strategies they can apply immediately, whether they’re coaching a struggling colleague, navigating conflict or leading through change.”
The course draws on evidence-based frameworks including Situational Leadership, Herzberg’s Motivation Theory, and the DiSC behavioural model (dominance, influence, steadiness, conscientiousness) to equip participants with the tools to lead with empathy, clarity and confidence.
IEUA NSW/ACT Branch Secretary Carol Matthews said supporting members in these roles has a ripple effect across the whole school.
“Middle leaders and principals play a crucial role in forming the culture of a school,” Matthews said. “We are keen to support our middle leaders and principals because we know this will have a positive impact on the working lives of our broader membership.”
Strengthening capacity
The importance of strengthening leadership capability in schools has also been reinforced by national research bodies.
The Productivity Commission has consistently flagged management capacity as a major constraint across industries, including education. It recognises the role of middle leaders in driving school improvement and emphasises the need for targeted professional learning.
The Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) has also recently released the Australian Professional Standards for Middle Leaders, a clear sign of the growing recognition of this leadership tier.
These standards highlight the need for ongoing development in areas such as leading teaching and learning, developing self and others, and building productive relationships.
Real-world application
This workshop will align with the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers, Middle Leaders, and Principals. It offers practical guidance in navigating the messy, human side of school leadership.
The course provides actionable frameworks for dealing with common leadership dilemmas. From difficult conversations to fostering team cohesion, the course offers strategies grounded in real-world application.
“We need to invest in school leaders who are already on the ground making a difference,” says Matthews said. “This workshop is about helping those leaders to thrive.”
The two-day course is ideal for current and aspiring middle and senior leaders in schools, including heads of department, year coordinators, and assistant principals. Whether you’re newly appointed or a seasoned leader seeking fresh approaches, this workshop will offer valuable tools and renewed confidence.
For more information and to register: see this article