Director's Notebook
Maya Angelou famously said, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Saying goodbye
This quote resonates deeply at the end of every school year. While staff turnover is often attributed to salary, relocation, or personal circumstances, many educators leave because of how they experienced the culture of the school. They remember whether they felt valued, supported, trusted, and given opportunities to grow.
Leadership research consistently reminds us that intrinsic motivators matter more than extrinsic rewards in sustaining commitment. Herzberg’s theory highlights that recognition, meaningful responsibility, and opportunities for professional growth are powerful motivators, while Daniel Pink emphasises autonomy, mastery, and purpose. These ideas reinforce that effective leadership - of Head of School and IB programme Coordinators - is not simply about managing people but about creating an environment where they feel appreciated, challenged, and connected to a shared mission.
Saying hello
As we prepare to welcome new colleagues for the new academic year, I am reminded that induction is far more than orientation or paperwork. It is the first chapter in a teacher’s journey within our school and an opportunity to create memorable moments that foster belonging. A thoughtful induction programme, personalised support, mentoring, regular check-ins, and intentional opportunities to build relationships communicate a simple but powerful message: you matter here.
This aligns strongly with the IB Leadership Intelligence Framework, particularly the importance of relational intelligence. Leaders who demonstrate empathy, listen actively, and intentionally build trusting relationships shape positive school cultures where people flourish. Every interaction contributes to how colleagues feel about working in our community.
Reflection
As I reflect on my own leadership, I am asking myself:
- Do people feel genuinely welcomed when they join our school?
- Do they feel recognised for their contributions?
- Am I creating opportunities for growth and belonging?
Ultimately, leadership is remembered less for the policies we write than for the culture we create. If people leave—or stay—because of how they felt, then making people feel valued is not a soft skill; it is one of the most important responsibilities of school leadership.