Michael Crow (Headteacher) Leigh Academy
Line Management With Better Accountability & Buy-in (Without Overwhelm)
What's the impact of the Coachinginschools Training?
In this video, Michael, a Deputy headteacher, (who’s now Headteacher) shares his experience of being coached and how it has transformed his decision-making, leadership style, and approach to accountability.
Through coaching, he and colleagues have learned to navigate complex ideas, identify obstacles, and make more strategic decisions that drive school improvement.
One of the biggest changes has been in Michael’s approach to line management – learning how to hold staff accountable, set clear expectations, and ensure follow-through on key initiatives.
The video also explores how coaching has helped with using assessment data effectively. Instead of staff feeling overwhelmed by data, the goal has been to create a culture where data informs decision-making and drives real progress.
Additionally, Michael shares insights from his wife, a primary Deputy Head in a very different setting, who he coached to gain successful outcomes by getting buy-in to things she wanted to embed in her school.
Whether you’re a headteacher, senior leader, or aspiring school leader, this video offers valuable insights into how coaching can enhance leadership, improve school management, and create a more focused and effective approach to education.
Watch and be inspired!
'Golden Nuggets' include:
“Being coached has been like finding the clearing in a forest – it’s helped me cut through the noise and make the right decisions.”
“Through coaching, I’ve learned how to hold people accountable, set clear expectations, and ensure follow-through – this has transformed my leadership.”
“We’ve moved from being overwhelmed by data to actually using it – coaching has helped us create a culture of informed decision-making.”
“Coaching has sharpened my approach to line management, making me more strategic in how I support and challenge staff.”
“The biggest change in my practice? Accountability – coaching has helped me identify key actions, set deadlines, and ensure real progress happens.”