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Reader's rant

Tomorrow's head ache

I decided a few years ago that I would begin my journey to headship because, although I am not one of those naturally charismatic leaders of people, I feel there is a place for me as a passionate and driven educationalist. The National College fortunately agreed with me on this. 

I managed to get a place on the Tomorrow’s Heads programme, by the skin of my teeth, but at least I was on the path! Tomorrow’s Heads is a pre-NPQH three-year programme that gives support, mentoring and challenges to aspirant leaders. 

The programme has helped me in all aspects of my professional life. I found myself in a group of extremely talented, creative and supportive participants and programme leaders. I know that without the support of the Tomorrow’s Heads team, I would not have made the progress I have, and would not have the same confidence in such a relatively short time. Everyone I have spoken to on the programme feels the same way. 

So why is it that in a country where head teachers are thin on the ground, to the point of a crisis around the corner, are programmes like Tomorrow’s Heads being cancelled? I know these courses cost a lot of money, and the results are not easily measured straight away, but who is keeping an eye on the big picture? 

Surely the answer cannot be just to make NPQH non-compulsory – where are the heads of tomorrow going to get their training, support and confidence from? We are in a recession, but in a few years we won’t be and there will be precious few leaders progressing through the system. Proper training and support are not luxuries. 

Thank you to everyone who has been a part of Tomorrow’s Heads and I hope the programme is relaunched, for the sake of the future leaders who are going to miss out on such a fantastic ‘springboard’ into senior leadership. 

Aimee Quickfall