As principals, we're often told leadership means setting the "right" example. What is "right"?

At a leadership retreat, principals were asked to share what three things they believe makes a difference:

• One said: set vision, drive execution, manage stakeholders
• Another offered: tell the story, shape culture, put the right talent in place
• Someone broke the 3 max rule with: establish tone, cultivate success, encourage balance, be personal
• The final principal decided: your core business, divide resources, create a high-performing team

Everyone was open and honest. Did this clarify the leadership understood the "right"?

What did they have in common?

Reflecting on my way home, I found each view compelling yet struggled to find something universal. Every principal understood what they needed to do to make a great school and spoke with pride and passion about maintaining high performance in what they felt was "right."

Choosing a School

Contrary to popular belief, choosing the "right" school isn't "one of the most important decisions you'll make" rather it's "one of many important decisions." Can I guarantee you've made the "right" choice? Probably not.

Although I can guarantee the school will offer:

• A professional team delivering rich, stimulating experiences

• Comprehensive programmes addressing various student needs

• Unmatched learning support and personalised learning journeys to ensure no limits to achievement

• Focus on student wellbeing

• Community-focused approach

• Emphasis on developing confident, independent, and creative thinkers

• Strong values and culture

Teachers prioritise each child reach their potential, supporting the vision of "Rising to Success", while preparing children for their future.

This community-focused school offers various opportunities for success. Learners become confident, independent, and creative thinkers. The environment fosters care and respect for each other as well as the community. A culture built on strong values provides children with an excellent model for learning—one that prepares them for a happy, successful life.

Is this school your "right" fit? Only you can decide. However, what I can guarantee is a warm welcome awaits when you visit.

He mihi mahana, he maioha nui ki a koutou katoa

Paula