"I wasted 2 years on my leadership qualification"

Happy Friday

What if the leadership development you've invested in is actually holding you back? It sounds counterintuitive, but after speaking with school leaders across four continents, I'm convinced we need to rethink what effective leadership training looks like.

I hosted a webinar this week called "The Leadership Qualification Trap" and it seems to have struck a chord. My inbox has been busy with messages from colleagues sharing their experiences with leadership development programmes.

After speaking with dozens of leaders who've completed various qualifications from NPQs to Masters degrees, I kept hearing variations of the same theme: "I invested significant time and money, but I don't feel better equipped to lead." Does that resonate with you?

My research uncovered five significant problems with traditional leadership programmes:

First, it's theory without practice. It's like those flat-pack furniture kits where they show you the finished product but provide minimal instructions on how to build it. Leadership programmes often show you what good leadership looks like without the practical steps to get there.

Second, the content doesn't translate to your context. What works in a UK state school might not apply in an international school in Shanghai (where I'm based). Context makes a tremendous difference.

Third, superficial communities. While 85% of leaders cited peer learning as most valuable, mandatory forum posts where you "comment on two other reflections" don't create genuine connection. They simply tick administrative boxes.

Fourth, they oversimplify what's inherently complex. No model can fully capture the messy reality of school leadership. It's like trying to make one bird responsible for how the entire flock flies.

Finally, they often require you to adopt a leadership identity that doesn't feel authentic. Like a cuttlefish changing colours to fit in, leaders become exhausted trying to mimic leadership styles that don't align with who they truly are.

The consequences? Leader burnout, high staff turnover, misaligned teams, and widespread initiative fatigue across our schools.

A Different Approach

I believe we can do better. That's why I'm launching the Education Leaders Intensive. This 12-week programme starting in September focuses on practical implementation, helps you apply concepts immediately, connects you with peers facing similar challenges, and supports you in developing your authentic leadership voice.

I'm intentionally keeping the group small because I want to work closely with passionate leaders who are ready to engage deeply with their practice.

• Interested in learning more? Book a conversation here

• Missed the webinar? Watch the recording here

I'm genuinely interested in your experience with leadership development. What's worked for you? What hasn't? Hit reply and let me know.

Have a wonderful weekend,

Shane

Here’s a few of my latest podcast episodes to take you in to the weekend: