1 Samuel 16:7 "The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance but the LORD looks at the heart."
As another New Year approaches, maybe you are in that place where you’re wondering what 2024 might look like in career and indeed life terms? It is both strange yet true that this time of year is one of both looking back as well as looking forward and considering what are the changes in my life that I need to be getting on with.
And as God looks into your life as a school leader, and perhaps challenges you to consider his next leadership assignment, will he find someone who fits his requirements when he looks at you?
Of course, ability is incredibly important, personality and experience very helpful, but in reality what God truly desires and requires above all else in a school leader is both character and integrity.
And how is character shaped? If it is so crucial to the leadership of Church Schools, how can it be developed further in aspiring and existing Heads?
The answer may actually be quite simple; character is shaped through action.
In his great commission Jesus commanded his disciples to go and in going they were to teach all that they had been taught. Certainly, there is a place for discussion but real growth and learning is to be found in doing. God is seeking Deputies and Heads who are intentional; men and women who are regularly looking for opportunities, big and small, to “step up” and stretch themselves that bit further both professionally and spiritually. He is seeking teachers who have been faithful in the small things and are now ready for increased responsibility.
And so the question again is, as God seeks someone for his next leadership assignment, will he find someone who meets his requirements when he looks at you? Are you a person of character and integrity? Do you feel you being stretched or have you allowed yourself to grow comfortable? Are you making the most of your God given talents or are you, perhaps subconsciously, guilty of burying them?
Are you ready to be a leader of a Church School?
Well over 50% of Church Schools seeking to appoint a new Headteacher go on to re-advertise. Does that mean there’s no one qualified and interested out there?
In our experience the problem is not due to a lack of competence amongst aspiring and existing Heads, but rather a lack of willingness amongst well qualified leaders to “step out the boat” and rise up to the challenge of leading a Church School.
Indeed, the role of a Headteacher can seem daunting, overwhelming even. Undoubtedly there is an element of risk involved, high expectations and huge levels of responsibility. It is not for everyone. Caution is understandable, advisable even.
So why become a school leader at all? And why in a Church School?
Again, the answer may actually be quite simple: influence.
As a school leader you have the unique privilege of helping shape the future of hundreds, maybe even thousands of children and young people. As a Head of a Church School, you have the opportunity to shape and create an environment that not only seeks to provide an excellent education but is also distinctly Christian in ethos. An opportunity to lead a school community that has the gospel values at its core, where there is a moral foundation and positive culture in which children can learn and be confident in knowing what it means to be good citizens.
The opportunity is unique. As both a professional and as a Christian. To be a leader in a Church School is to not just to talk the talk, but also to walk the walk. An opportunity to use the gifts, talents and experience God has given you in order to be the very best that you can be and to draw the very best out of those around you. Nor does he leave you to do it on your own. What a privilege. What a vocation.
At Emmaus we recognise that the call to step into leadership is a risky one, often a leap into the unknown. That is why, as both Christians and recruitment experts, we are so committed to supporting you every step of the way.